MANILA, Philippines—Talk about youthful ambition: Partners and degree-minded students Emil Perez and Gino Bote started the idea of Filthy Grommet (pronounced as ’grämit) that spun urban- and street-forward wares mainly for the teens and 20-something kids, most of whom are artists, musicians, and fashionistas.

“It’s one of those what ifs … and one day we just stood up and did it, and the rest is history,” explains Emil about starting up the business with neighbor Gino. They both enjoyed the same things like basketball, music, fashion, and other kicks.

The brand’s coined name might conjure negative associations with everything filthy (no pun here), but the name actually centers upon the word “grommet,” a slang word used by skateboarders and surfboarders meaning “excellent rookie.” “We view ourselves as young individuals who shell out raw and fresh ideas influenced by our environment and our lifestyle,” Emil states. “Our experiences of the hustle and bustle of the streets of Manila and our world views are what we translate into our pieces of clothing. We are a clothing line inspired by street culture, carrying graphic T-shirts and specializing in the customization of jeans and hoodies.”

Though admittedly they are steps away from the mainstream trends-their creations have already created a buzz from the hot-selling customized hoodies (P2,500+), jeans (P1,800+), shorts (P1,150), and Ts(P500), and from the praises they have been receiving from loyal customers, “I really really really like your stuff!”—it appears that they’re not far from success.

“We ultimately want to leave a mark in the fashion industry and the sub-culture that comes with it, sparking recognition from the all walks of life!”

Filthy Grommet is located at 148 ATC Building, Penthouse Floor, White Plains Road, Quezon City (right beside Dexter’s Bakeshop). Store hours are from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Please contact mobile numbers (0917) 822-1284, or (0917) 895-3645 for appointments before or after store hours.