Global Icon HANKO Walks for Sustainable Pioneer Chona Bacaoco at Paris Fashion Week, Championing Inclusivity
Written by Matt Emma
Supermodel and genderless advocate Elton Ilirjani, known professionally as HANKO, commanded the runway at the Wyndham Paris Pleyel Resort this week, headlining the highly anticipated Spring/Summer 2026 show for sustainable couture brand MM Milano the Brand during Paris Fashion Week.
The appearance marked a significant milestone for designer Chona Bacaoco, who launched her Milan-based fashion house just five years ago. Bacaoco, whose journey began in her hometown of Guimaras, Philippines, has quickly established herself as a leader in ethical fashion, blending heritage materials with modern, responsible design.
Bacaoco's collection, captured by renowned fashion photographer Arun Nevader, showcased a commitment to sustainability, utilizing deadstock fabric, certified organic cotton, upcycled materials, and natural Philippine fibers, including the sophisticated Hablon weave. The show cemented Bacaoco’s place among top independent designers, attracting attention after dressing high-profile European figures such as socialite Drusilla Gucci, TV personality Sofia Giaele de Dona, and artist Selvaggia Roma.
A Shared Ethos of Inclusivity on the Runway
The collaboration with Elton Ilirjani was central to Bacaoco’s philosophical mission—a shared push for greater inclusion within the often-rigid fashion world."I'm an inclusive designer, I think the world needs to be more inclusive and more accepting," Bacaoco stated after the show. "There is no race, size, age or gender, it’s all about making the person feel included. Kindness is free and there are so many kind people in the fashion industry, but they are afraid to show it. If you're kind and you show it, you will succeed."
Bacaoco’s commitment extends beyond the catwalk; she also runs the MM Milano Agency in Milan, providing essential support to talented individuals who lack the financial backing necessary to succeed in the industry.
Elton Ilirjani: The Performance Artist of Fashion
Albanian American model Elton Ilirjani (HANKO) is a mainstay on global fashion week circuits, travelling from New York and London to Milan and Tokyo. He is celebrated not only for his striking presence but for revolutionizing the model’s walk into performance art.Known for utilizing his eyes, facial expressions, hands, and powerful poses, Ilirjani transforms standard runway modeling into a dramatic display. His choice to walk for emerging independent designers like Bacaoco is deliberate. With a massive social media following of over 12 million, he leverages his platform to give vital exposure to brands that prioritize innovation and inclusivity.
"Supporting young, up and coming designers is key to Elton’s inclusive ethos in the fashion world," noted a representative. His recent work with designers like Jemma Russo, Naoko Tosa, and Ema Savahl underscores his dedication to international independent couture.
Breaking New Ground and Redefining Norms
Elton Ilirjani is a figure who has consistently shattered boundaries. Gaining initial notoriety in the conservative climate of Albania in 2016 as the first businessman to publicly come out as gay, he transitioned into modeling in 2019 after discovering the work of unique Asian designers at 3NY in New York City.Since then, he has rapidly ascended the ranks, bringing his genderless advocacy to the world stage and walking for renowned names including Greedilous and Malan Breton.
By selecting HANKO to headline her show, Chona Bacaoco’s MM Milano not only delivered a compelling collection of ethical fashion but also made a powerful statement: that kindness, inclusivity, and sustainability are the driving forces of the future of haute couture.
