Louis Vuitton arrives in Cebu
When it comes to finding the perfect travel companion be it in the form of trunk beds for expeditions or sleek city bags for urban strolls, one luxury brand stands out — Louis Vuitton.
In its quest of discovering new destinations, Louis Vuitton Philippines held its first event outside of Metro Manila in the vibrant city of Cebu.
The first of the three-day event held at Shangri-La Mactan’s Ocean Pavilion began with private selling sessions, followed by a press preview, down to the well-attended cocktail party hosted by general manager of Micronesia & Philippines Rhea de Vera- Aguirre.
The bags that were showcased featured the key best-selling city bags and evening bags called the “Pochette Louise” a clutch bag with gold hardware of the iconic Monogram. One of the biggest bag launch for 2014 is the “Lockit” endorsed by Michelle Willams who embodies the chic Parisian woman. Also showcased were men’s leather goods as well as a backpack in damier graphite for a more casual look.
In attendance were Cebu’s artistic set including Butch Carungay, entrepreneur-designer and visionary behind the success of Cebu-based Avatar Accessories; Joanna Lhuillier, manufacturer of fine quality handbags and fashion accessories; Iris Arcenas, who is known for her innovative handbags and fine jewelry; her daughter Mia Arcenas, who is making waves with her own line of distinctly sophisticated resort wear; and Marguerite Lhuillier, known for her world-class home accessories and baskets.
Mingling around Vito Selma’s stunning and complex furniture, which was a perfect setting for the Vuitton pieces, were Cebu fashion designers Jun Escario, Oj Hofer, Marichu Tan Geson, Edwin Ao, Protacio Empaces and Arcy Gayatin who looked stunning in her brass necklace by Doro Barandino.
Also in attendance was Cebu-born Kenneth Cobonpue, world-renowned, multi-awarded industrial designer known for his signature designs in natural fibers and materials.
Among the evening’s prominent guests were philanthropists Amparito Lhuillier and Mariquita Yeung, style icons Rosebud Sala and Teresin Mendezona, realtor developer Mary Anne Arculli with daughter Jasmin, art enthusiast Elvira Luym and SM’s Marissa Fernan.
DJ Emel Rowe entertained the crowd with his upbeat and soulful sounds throughout the night. An Instagram printing service was a hit among the crowd. Flown in all the way from Singapore, guests who used the hash tag “#LVCEBU14” took home a business card-sized printout of their photos that night.
Since 1854, Louis Vuitton has brought unique designs to the world, combining innovation with style. Today, the Maison remains faithful to the spirit of its founder Louis Vuitton who invented a genuine “Art of travel” through luggage, bags and accessories which were as creative as they were elegant and practical. Since then, audacity has shaped the story of Louis Vuitton. Faithful to its heritage, Louis Vuitton has opened its doors to architects, artists and designers across the years, all the while developing disciplines such as ready-to-wear, shoes, accessories, watches, jewelry and stationery. These carefully created products are testament to Louis Vuitton’s commitment to fine craftsmanship. The evening marked Louis Vuitton’s introduction to the Cebu society.
