The new school supplies
MANILA, Philippines - What do these tastemakers have in common? A nostalgia for the charms of the past with a modern approach to today’s style. We asked two of these folks in the design biz to curate a few must-haves in time for the opening of classes. The results: a masterful mix of fun and old-school.
Rossy Yabut
Rossy Yabut has a penchant for things feminine and fun. The interior designer, also one-half of the team that helms Heima (heimastore.com) with Bong Rojales, has a thing for quirky prints and playful hues. Her shop is chockfull of unexpected mixes and cozy furniture. To celebrate the season, we asked Yabut to curate five must-have essentials for school. The results? An eclectic mix that reflects her love for color.
Age: 26
Alma mater: University of Santo Tomas, College of Fine Arts
What was your style in college?
We had a uniform: blue pants and blue top. I’d just wear different accessories to get different looks.
Greatest sartorial regrets over your school style?
Wearing rubber shoes when it’s raining.
One thing you miss most about those days?
Hanging out with my awesome friends.
What do you wish you had then that kids have now?
Techie gadgets like laptops/iPad/iPhone/Blackberry. I don’t remember anyone having her own laptop in my class.
Carlo Rufino
The Regatta brand manager knows a thing or two about preppy uniforms. He mastered the art of the perfect khaki and button down when he took over the reigns at Regatta. Rufino, who grew up sporting the kind of young Americana aesthetic he offers at his label, puts the same spin on these smart classics for school: a healthy mix of the offbeat with the traditional.
Age: 38
Alma mater: San Francisco State University
What was your style in college?
J.Crew by day, blazers by night.
Greatest sartorial regrets over your school style?
Baggy ’90s chinos. The difference with baggy ’80s bottoms? It lacked character...
One thing you miss most about those days?
My hair. I miss wearing jackets and coats, too.
What do you wish you had then that kids have now?
More color choices of topsiders and espadrilles. Too bad there’s no more Dragonflies. I’m sure that would be a hit.
