Sunday Lifestyle

Get into the Holidaze

December 2, 2017 | 4:00pm

Shangri-La Plaza redefines the season’s trends

MANILA, Philippines — Christmas is indeed the happiest time of the year because it is the time of giving and receiving. This season amplifies our penchant for anything grand and vibrant. Along with the slight drop in temperature, our sartorial choices take a celebratory turn by doubling up on color, print and layer. With so many choices, the Shang makes a case for smart holiday shopping.

As the country’s premier lifestyle destination, Shangri-La Plaza previewed the season’s must-haves on Holidaze Fashion Show last November 11 at the Grand Atrium, every look a moment of good cheer wrapped in joyful yuletide subtlety. Trendy elements (velvet, satin, sequins, sheer, embroidery, lace and leather) were in full display, peeking in all the right places to update a closet staple rather than overwhelm. The key is mixing classics with showstoppers and contrasting heavy embellishments against light textures. Prints remain a dominant force but more subdued without taking away the fun and drama. The show was also a masterclass in high-low dressing: bomber jackets over cocktail dresses, gartered pants in place of tailored trousers, flannels under coats, and fresh little nods to athleisure weaved into the elements of luxe.

Here’s a glance at some of the holiday looks seen on the Holidaze runway from Rustan’s Department Store, Adora, Joe Fresh, Debenhams, Old Navy, Porsche Design, Paul & Shark, Repetto, British India, Stradivarius, Gap, Marks & Spencer, Arrow, K & Company, Daniel Hechter, Anne Klein, Van Laack, Brooks Brothers, Mico Boutique, Styled and The Park.

Grayscale Enchantments

From LBDs updated with lace accents and sheer panels to dramatic tulles and short dresses in shades of gray, Christmas has never looked this chic.

Corporate Holidays

Amp up the Christmas vibe at work in printed blazers and tops, vibrant plaids and statement pieces that shine.

Shades of Good Cheer

Give your denim pants a much needed break and brighten up the season in colored trousers.

Seasonal Chill

From trendy varsity, bomber, leather, motorcycle and down jackets to hip insulated vests to shop, your holiday style will never get left out in the cold.

Christmas Drama

Elegance knows no season. Guys can look sharp in a tailored suit and a bold red bow tie and the ladies can create drama in a timeless ivory floor-length stunner.