Uniformly fashionable

MANILA, Philippines - It all started when Lani Velasco wanted to make her household help look professional when she took them out with her kids. Instead of buying run-of-the-mill maids’ uniforms in the standard pink, white, baby blue and yellow in stripes or gingham prints, she went the other way and had them made in khaki, gray, navy blue and other, more subtle colors using more breathable, comfortable fabrics and polished designs.

Her bespoke uniforms certainly got her friends’ attention; Lani started receiving compliments and endless queries about where she acquired them. Soon, friends asked if they could have their household help’s uniforms created by her. So, in late 2004, it was a natural move for Lani to hire two seamstresses and start producing in her basement. She saw the viable need in the market to create a more updated look for household help.

She almost didn’t get a space as a concessionaire at the Karl Edwards Bazaar at the Fort, but the organizers saw potential in the uniforms and gave her a small stall. Her only form of advertisement was through word of mouth, and because of that, Lani has seen her uniforms worn in Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, New York and California. She has even accepted orders all the way from the US and even as far as Spain. Thanks to the quality and durability of the fabrics used, each set is sold for at least P800, but she offers a warranty to her clients.

In 2006, she finally set up a small shop on Pasong Tamo Extension where clients can come and purchase ready-made uniforms, as well order custom-made ones. Now, apart from bespoke maids’ uniforms, Lani has also expanded to making uniforms for boutique hotels, corporate uniforms, medical clinics and spas.

Lil’ Kiks is located at Jannov Plaza Building 3, 2295 Pasong Tamo Extension, Makati City 1232. Call 812-1787, 0917- 899-9143, fax 892-7691, or e-mail lilkiksunis@yahoo.com.