Why we are so proudly Pinoy
MANILA, Philippines – In keeping with Greenbelt’s commitment to promoting the country’s pool of Filipino talents and in celebration of Philippine Independence, the premier lifestyle and shopping destination recently celebrated “Designs Filipino,” a preview of the retrospective collection of the Filipino Zone designers held at the second level of Filipino Zone in Greenbelt 5, home to world-class Filipino designers.
With eye-catching visual store displays showing the designers’ flair for unique illustrations, Greenbelt 5 Filipino Zone merchants grabbed the attention of metro denizens who flocked to the event to witness the preview. Some of the exceptional window displays were Myth’s one-of-a-kind cotton and plastic artwork installation showcasing the creations of the boutique’s designers; Aranaz’s Rags2Riches-themed window creatively displaying her exquisite bags over a painted newspaper wall; and the bold patriotic statement shirts on Bayo’s window. Spectators appreciated each unique and fabulous design fashioned by live mannequins while sashaying down the Filipino Zone hallway for scrumptious cocktails. Simultaneously, style savvies entered each store to browse for chic pieces.
Among the Filipino Zone merchants to participate in this lovely evening were Aranaz, Arnel Papa, Atelier Avatar, Bayo, Barba, Bonne Bouche, Gaupo, Jun Escario, Kashieca, KT, L Manila, Myth, Paradi, Religioso and Victoria Marin.
Models sported glamorous and chic designs such as exquisitely designed handmade bags by Amina Aranaz of Aranaz, handcrafted jewelry and accessories drawn from local materials by Arnel Papa, Atelier Avatar and Victoria Marin, and stunning shoe designs by Cesar Gaupo of Gaupo.
Bonne Bouche embodies graceful and classic fashion pieces by MIchi Calica, versatile jewelry of Elena Bautista and archaic and modern shoes by Emi Jorge. L Manila, on the other hand, houses stunning fashion designs by Lulu Tan Gan, Puey Quiñones, Gerry Katigbak, Danilo Franco, Barge Ramos, OJ Hofer, Tippi Ocampo and Solenn Heusaff. Owned by Ruby Gan and Jayjay Onrubia, Myth showcases a pool of creative talents such as Henri Calayag of skin care and cosmetics, Jing Monis of hair care, Doltz Pilar of store design and accessories and Ivarluski Aseron, Jojie Lloren, Louis Claparols, Dennis Lustico and Joey Samson of apparel design.
Live mannequins boldly displayed sheer sophistication with mature and commercially appealing designs by Vic Barba of Barba, soft draping fabrics by Jun Escario, quirky, rainbow-colored apparel by Kate Torralba of KT, posh resort wear by Patrice Ramos Diaz of Paradi, and made-to-order couture line of bridal, formal and sports wear alongside costume jewelry and shoes by sisters Yvette and Choc Religioso of Religioso.
Always a classic staple of every chic Filipina, Bayo and Kashieca reflect a neat and feminine image catering to women who embody the laid-back, casual lifesetyle.
Among the guests in attendance were Ayala Malls group department manager AC Ocampo and division manager Maricris Bernardino. The night was spiced up even more as style studs came to support the momentous occasion. Among the featured guests were stylephiles Anna Palabyab-Rufino, Daphne Oseña-Paez, Sigalit Djemal, TV news anchor Cherry Mercado, TV host Raymond Gutierrez, and other fashion designers including Anthony Nocom and Sassa Jimenez.
A true testament to Filipino patriotism, Greenbelt features the best of local designers, making every Filipino proud of his own country.
