MANILA, Philippines — Inspired by the vibrant resort lifestyle in the Philippines, ArteFino transforms the North Court of Rockwell’s Power Plant Mall from March 23-26 into a festive summer oasis filled with handpicked fashion, body care, and home finds that inspire 365 days of sunshine.
In the Philippines, the summer season runs all year round. The founders of ArteFino — Marimel Francisco, Mita Rufino, Maritess Pineda, Susie Quiros, and Cedie Vargas — add that at any given time, “It’s practically summer all year round in the Philippines, except for a few months of rain. You can plan a trip to any of our beautiful beaches. For us, summer isn’t just a season. It’s a lifestyle.”
The ArteFino team emphasizes, “Whether you are staying at home or exploring new destinations, that sense of being on vacation is always within reach.” It’s this mindset that informs how local makers and artisans craft their unique design narratives through colors, prints, patterns and textures. It also inspires weather-resistant workmanship, techniques and materials of choice.
Marimel expounds, “The need to stay cool and wear breathable and lightweight garments become necessary.” And because the warm climate in the tropics is almost year-round, versatility also factors into the aesthetic inclinations of local fashion, design and wellness brands.
That the archipelago enjoys tropical weather all year round puts the local design and craft community at an advantage, especially when it comes to creating pieces for resort or summer living. Weaving techniques of lightweight, tropical fabrics from all over the Philippines are unique. The same goes for design executions on accessories and home accouterments that echo with coastal chicness.
Marimel says, “The ArteFino Resort Pop Up aims to inspire a love for local, which can be injected into your contemporary lifestyle. During this limited, four-day thematic event, we invite you to discover a tropical trove filled with elevated casual pieces from different brands. There is also a curated selection of home products as well as body care items. From filling your days with resort fashion to transforming your tropical home, our special summer curation has got you covered.”
The handpicked selection of 27 brands at ArteFino Resort highlights the mastery of local artisans in crafting products ideal for tropical living. Labels and makers featured for this special trade fair include fashion brands Alegre by Techie Hagedorn, Christiana, Coco & Tres, Crystal Seas, Edited Limited, Good Luck Humans, Jor-El Espina, Lakat X Aire, Pinas Sadya, Style Ana, The Shape Shop, Tilia, Trude Lizares, Twinkle*Ferraren and Two Chic.
Fashion accessories are from Aishe, Arnel Papa, MCV Designs, R. Filart, Tina Campos, and Uswag Artesano x Abre Linea
Home brands include Art of Gold, The Fine Life Market Jewelry, Judy Jewels and Fedesto. Personal care is from Amparo’s Apothecary and Daily Bar.
“When we think of summer, what comes to mind are lounging poolside while sipping a drink, reading a book on an airy patio, the sound of the waves hitting the sand, and glorious orange and yellow sunsets. At sunset, serving meals al fresco under the shade of a tree. Gathering friends for cocktails. This season calls for relaxed days on the beach, surrounded by family and friends.”
For more information and updates, follow @artefinoph.