Set in Stone
Precious, a word that often describes jewelry. Its unending luster has made jewelry-making today reach its all-time popularity. From magazines to broadsheets to online sites, the variety is seemingly endless. Globally renowned Filpinos such as Bea Valdes, Rose Anne Cu-Unjieng de Pampelonne, Arnel Papa and Wyn Wyn Ong have inspired many to make this art a business. Recently, there has been a surge of young talents making waves in the local scene like Michelline Syjuco, Joyce Makitalo, Dianne Espera (SEPA) and Nicole Wisenhunt. While they bedeck society swans and dazzling celebrities they get the nod of fearless fashion insiders with the allure of their distinct artistry.
After the reign of statement neckpieces the past three seasons, Multiple Choice spotted the return of a more natural appeal in jewelry-making. Organic has found its way into the market from clothes and now, accessories. Breaking into the scene is accessories designer Ronald Mabanag, whose conceptions are interpretations of his love and fascination for nature. His works are celebrations of nature’s beauty re-interpreted as refreshing takes on modern adornments.
Realizing his passion for accessories has been his long time love but things didn’t happen for him overnight. It took 15 years of successfully working for the corporate world for the naturalist to realize his calling. What started three years ago as a hobby and part-time job became true last year when he decided to leave the multinational world and follow his inner voice. His love for fashion and jewelry was enhanced and influenced by movies such as The Devil Wears Prada, Sex and the City, September Issue and reality television shows like Project Runway. Moreover, Ronald’s penchant for creating fine things stems from his appreciation of the simplicity and beauty of stones. Driven by sheer creativity and passion, Ronald’s creation is a result of instinctive and artistic dialogues with nature. The design process results in works of art in varying hues and textures that stand out. The designer communicates a statement of the new covetable glamour that’s all natural.
It’s been a year since Ronald moved into the realm of fashion and to date his works have landed on the pages of top local glossies. The designer’s natural awareness and consciousness bring into being soulful pieces that represent natural wonder. Focused and determined, the naturalist’s vision is to mainstream his humble pieces of representation to venerate life.
Apart from global trending and the direction towards organic fashion, going back to basics is destined to be a big hit in all its true colors. Accentuate with nature’s bounty and feel extraordinary in classics with natural elegance. These delicate and pretty must-haves are beautifully hand made that will definitely make a mark.
(E-mail the author at mymultiplechoice@yahoo.com)
Photography by MAU AGUASIN • Styling by LUIS ESPIRITU JR. • Makeup by Bobby Carlos for REVLON • Modeled by SAMANTHA LEWIS • All accessories by RONALD MABANAG, available at DETAILS, Power Plant Mall, Rockwell Center, Makati City (0917-5250696 or e-mail ronald_mabanag@yahoo.com; visit ronaldmabanag.multiply.com)
