A clear, new perspective

Dr. Vivian Sarabia, known as the eyewear stylist to the stars, and her sons Bryan, Francis and STAR columnist Jan Sarabia-Ong celebrated a milestone for the Vivian Sarabia Optical enterprise with the blessing of its reopened SM Cubao branch. As the first branch that was launched in 1984, it recently reopened with a contemporary new look that pays homage to its past. The new store, patterned after a museum store, features pictures of its founder and the first Filipino optometrist Dr. Federico Sarabia. It also has its icon wall that depicts how eyewear has been integral to a celebrity’s look through the years.

Fr. Freddie Dizon blessed the shop. The blessing was a sentimental one for Vivian Sarabia and her staff because the patients from their Cubao branch have grown with the optical.

Aside from its loyal customers, the blessing was graced by Vivian’s family, friends and suppliers. Vivian’s endorsers DZRJ’s Rudolph Rivera and Howard Medina, long-time friend Mike Enriquez, Gladys Reyes and Ana Roces dropped by to give their full support for their favorite optometrist. Fred and his wife Dr. Corito Sarabia were also present. With the new branch, the optical shop promises to take care of a new generation of clients.

A fashion preview

Greenbelt 4 rang in the spring and summer vibe to Manila’s fashion conscious at the 2009 Spring/Summer Fashion Preview. In partnership with HSBC, Greenbelt 4 showcased shoes and handbags from Boss Black, Bottega Veneta, Burberry, Bulgari, Charriol, Gucci, Hogan, Jimmy Choo, Louis Vuitton, Marc Jacobs, Prada, Salvatore Ferragamo, Sergio Rossi, Tod’s and Yves Saint Laurent.

Guests enjoyed sumptuous cocktails as models donned the latest designs from renowned signature labels found in Greenbelt while the band Tribu Manila performed Latin-inspired beats.

Others spotted at the event watching the fashion show or shopping in the posh boutiques were The Peninsula Manila GM Jonathan Crook and wife Beliz. Seen at the scene, too, were The Peninsula Manila special events director Stephanie Chong, Raul Manzano, Myrza Sison, Leica Carpio, Liza Ilarde and Ernie Lopez.

Greenbelt 4 proves to be the premier shopping and lifestyle destination of style, luxury and glamour.

Nicole visits Ascend

After the successful and much talked about Doll Domination concert of the Pussycat Dolls at the grounds of Mall of Asia, lead singer and part-Filipino Nicole Scherzinger took time out to visit Ascend at The Fort. She danced the night away with some of her friends.

Nicole told this writer she couldn’t speak or understand a bit of Filipino. She also said she likes Manila a lot. Words are ripe that she will try to be back next month. So fans of Nicole, watch out for that!