Celebrated designers at Greenbelt
Brightly lit halls illuminate the numerous brands and offerings that Ayala Malls Greenbelt houses, from its luxury boutiques to its time-limited pop-ups featuring the best of Filipino craftsmanship. Many of the Philippines’ most esteemed designers have gathered at Greenbelt to showcase their newest products and collections, from ready-to-wear to accessories.
“Over the years, we have been supporting Filipino talent through various efforts such as OPM concerts and rent-free bazaars featuring local delicacies and handcrafted goods,” says Ayala Malls president Christopher Maglanoc. “This Christmas, we continue our mission in creating deeper appreciation for local heritage through fashion and world-class craftsmanship.”
The annual Designers’ Holiday Bazaar is back to bring over 30 Filipino brands and artisans to the fore. Curated by Bea Zobel Jr. and Sofia Zobel-Elizalde, the lineup includes favorites like Piopio, Kalye Artisano, Alegre, Chrysara, Artisana Handicrafts, Amal, Matthew & Melka, Auro, Amarie, Mabolo, Yvette's Bags & Beads, T'nalak Home, Rurungan Collective, Museo Pambata, AARDE, Touch of Craft, Jim Weaver Designs, 17 Hacienda Mar, and more.
An event with a cause, 25% of DHB’s sales is donated to Steps Scholarship Foundation and Ayala Foundation for APEC Scholarships to benefit children from CENTEX schools.
Another must-visit pop up is Kaayo, a sustainable fashion brand that showcases traditional weaving and beading by ethnic tribes in Mindanao. On the racks are Inabel tops, earth-toned dresses, hand-embroidered polos, hand-beaded pants, and more. The communities behind Kaayo’s masterfully crafted pieces are paid biweekly, allowing them to build their houses, send their kids to school, and provide for their family’s daily needs. Very fittingly, the brand name “Kaayo” (which is a Bisayan term) stands for “kindness,” “to go beyond,” and “for the good.”
Rhett Eala also makes an appearance in Greenbelt 5. His pop-up store resembles an art exhibit with colorful abstract paintings on the walls, adding edge and moodiness to the space. The renowned designer—who has dressed beauty queens, celebrities, and politicians—showcases his RTW collection, including chiffon ponchos, tweed dresses, ternos, and more. The Rhett Eala pop-up store also features two more designers: TDLG Designs by Tweetie de Leon-Gonzalez and Bitagcol by Jo Ann Bitagcol. The former presents handmade statement pieces proudly designed by Tweetie herself, with elements sourced from around the globe. Meanwhile, the latter takes a modern and unconventional approach to fashion. Jo Ann prints carefully curated photographs of Filipiniana (which she took herself) on silk scarves and garments, thus paving new avenues and interactions for art appreciation.
Finally, Zarah Juan pays homage to local talent with her 100%-handmade pieces ranging from bags and accessories to home goods. Wardrobe staples include the Ambassador Tote, a nostalgic design that stands out for its Bamboo Solihiya and embroidery, inspired by traditional chairs owned by the designer’s grandparents. Another is the Busina Mini, a jeepney-shaped bag that also serves as a funky décor; meanwhile, the Kartero cross-body bag comes with an adjustable strap made with hand-woven material from the weavers of Benguet Province.
For more information, head to www.ayalamalls.com or visit @ilovegreenbelt on Instagram and @Greenbelt.AyalaMalls on Facebook.
