The bag you’ll use every day
Dear Rissa,
I’m always on the go because of my job, so I like to be surrounded with things that multi-task — whether it’s my wardrobe, gadgets, or even skincare products. But I have yet to find a pretty but unique bag that can be used in many ways. Please recommend one.
Sheila
I hear ya. I’m not the on-the-go type who travels a lot, but even just being in Manila, I feel like there’s so much busyness and traffic. Time has become very scarce and women today play many roles — mother, wife, career woman, student, sister, friend — so there’s a huge desire for things that multi-task and work as hard as you do. We want things in our lives that allow us to get the look or accomplish things without breaking the bank, and since they work twice as hard, they’re the products worth making room for.
I’m so in love with the latest bags of Filipino brand R2R or Rags2Riches, Inc. (stores located at Glorietta 1, TriNoma, UP Town Center, or shop online at rags2riches.ph). Their collection, called “Versions,” features bags that transform in joyful colors of red, mustard, teal, and the indigenous weave of Binetwagan from Ilocos. There’s a bag that changes from a large tote into a drawstring pouch, another that collapses from a flat tote into a hobo crossbody, and a third one that expands from a handbag to a tall sling bag.
Known for their handwoven bags which upcycle overstocked cloth and indigenous fabrics, R2R partners with local artisans across the country to empower them and help weave better futures for their families and communities. R2R is proof that style and sustainability can co-exist. Each piece created is not just a fashion statement but also a social statement. Each time you carry one, it shares a story and is a banner for Filipino design, sustainability, and craftsmanship. Yes, the bags from their latest collection don’t just transform to many ways you can use them, the brand also plays many roles like you.
Rissa
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Wanted: Natural Remedy For Warts
Dear Lucy,
Is there a natural way to remove my warts?
Where can I buy nice summer sandals?
And what will make nice fashionable presents for my fiance’s stylish sisters in France? We are visiting this summer.
Geraldine
First, your warts. There are people who swear by natural means to remove those, but I have no personal knowledge about it, I have yet to meet someone with first-hand experience so I really cannot and will not recommend any natural treatment. I would suggest though that you please see a reputable dermatologist who can lay out all options for you. Please do it asap as warts multiply fast and are very contagious.
For gifts, I am a fan of sharing with the rest of the world our beautiful local finds. We have so many wonderful artisans, so many gorgeous local products, and finding something that will delight someone is easy.
If you want clothes, Bench has a wonderful summer collection out now. For clutches and bags, Aranaz has a wonderful selection. If jewellery is more your thing, then check out the Simbolo collection of Jul B. Dizon Jewellery Salon. It is a line that celebrates our Filipino culture and heritage. My favorites are the Sampaguita earrings and the Bandila earrings. They’re for keeps and #forever.
For impeccable details, Filip+Inna is a brand that will never disappoint. They have scarves and coats and blazers, shorts and skirts, and dresses that are sure to delight the recipient.
There are so many to choose from, locally, it just depends on what you want to give.
If you want handmade soaps and balms, Blackrose Botanicals (IG page is @blackrosebotanicals) has really good stuff. They have lip scrubs and Sea Salt Hair Spray and aromatherapy balms made of real essential oils.
Happy shopping!
Lucy
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Send e-mail to Lucy Torres-Gomez at ltg@pldtdsl.com. E-mail Rissa Trillo at stylesos_rissa@yahoo.com or follow her on Twitter @RissaMananquil.
