Luxury is the pleasurable reward that comes from hard work and wise investments.

 

On the one hand, there is the luxury of travel. Vacations create luxuries of unforgettable and priceless memories.

 

And then there is the luxury of spending. Buying anything—cars, jewelry or, as in my case, trinkets and accessories—is a luxury, the acquisition of a personal treasure that may, perhaps, be preserved as a family heirloom.

 

At the top of the luxury pyramid must be the purchase of a Mercedes-Benz. Few automobile makers can match a Benz— whether design, comfort or innovation, its cars have consistently remained ahead of the pack.

 

So, no surprise then, that the launch of the latest Mercedes-Benz E-Class was a jam-packed affair at Shangri-La at The Fort. The new E’s technological innovations raise industry standards for ride, comfort and performance efficiency. This was evident in the three cars on display at the ballroom, on a revolving stage with a massive digital wall behind that highlighted the cars’ handsome features.

 

Mercedes-Benz Philippines’ Auto Nation Group chair Greg Yu and president Felix Ang were joined by German Ambassador Thomas Ossowski and Daimler SE Asia CEO Wolfgang Huppenbauer to welcome the scores of tycoons who attended the launch. The mood was upbeat.

 

Sensual design

 

The E-Class itself did not disappoint. Among its new features are a 360-degree network of cameras, sensors and radar to further enhance safety.

 

The sensual interior includes swathes of brown leather that spill over ergonomically designed seats, and classy wood accents that complement the entire sporty aesthetic.

 

The driving experience is bound to be stellar. The E-Class is powered by a 2.0L, inline, four-cylinder engine and geared with the new 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic transmission. Gosh, I can only remember getting up to fourth gear when I used to drive myself around.

 

While all these features may excite car aficionados, I just get a thrill riding in a Benz and alighting from one with grace and elegance.

 

At the launch, I bumped into Globe Telecom CEO Ernest Cu, who told me that, of course, Globe would be a sponsor of the coming Red Charity Gala.

 

Felix, who is always so generous, also pledged his support, so we are delighted that Mercedes-Benz will be on board as well. We will be seeing the Mercedes-Benz elegantly displayed once again at the Shangri-La at The Fort when the Red Charity Gala unfolds on Oct. 8.

 

Investment pieces

 

Although I’m into fancy bejeweled accessories, I’m also slowly being drawn to the world of fine jewelry. As I am growing wiser, I thought it’s a good idea to start investing in real pieces that I can pass down to my two daughters. My favorite designs are those from Jul B. Dizon Jewellery.

 

At The Conservatory of The Peninsula Manila, Jul B. Dizon hosted a one-day engagement that served as the company’s annual homage to the world of timeless jewelry designs and masterpieces. The award-winning brand is celebrating 38 years of delivering one-of-a-kind gemstone pieces, and this year’s new collection is a testament to its enduring design.

 

Guests had the opportunity to see firsthand the finely crafted pieces by the Dizon sisters: Candy, Ginny and Lucille. Each sister debuted a collection celebrating artistry, heritage and individual influences. Each collection carried its own individual sense of style and guaranteed that there was something to suit everyone.

 

The anniversary show has always been a long-standing tradition of the company. Jul B. Dizon first opened its doors in 1978. Over three generations, the company has delivered pieces that are standouts in workmanship and design.

 

Best Dressed Women of PH

 

This year, Jul B. Dizon Jewellery donated part of its sales to the Philippine Cancer Society (PCS), which is also the beneficiary of an annual charity ball that honors The Best Dressed Women of the Philippines. The curtains were raised on the 13th edition of this annual charity ball with an afternoon tea at the Makati Shangri-La.

 

Leading the festivities was event chair and honorary consul to Angola Helen Ong, joined by her committee members Jayelles’ Roselle Rebano, Mabel Abaño, Marian Ong, and adviser Johnny Litton, as well as PCS vice chair Antonio Ma. Guerrero.

 

Formally introduced at the affair were the 2016 Best Dressed Women of the Philippines awardees composed of Dr. Cecilia Ramos Bernad, Alta Redor Lyttle, Judith Tan and Sheilla Maria Golez Tiongco.

Founded in 2004, this charitable event continuous to support PCS programs to help the disadvantaged sector. The first-ever PCS Mobile Clinic fitted with a cryotherapy machine was also launched with their help.

 

The annual charity ball is set for Sept. 22 at the Rizal Ballroom of Makati Shangri-La, Manila.

 

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Stunning gown

 

My personal preference when it comes to luxury is fashion. At the Fashion Exchange International (FEI), Rajo Laurel designed a stunning gown for me to wear. What could be more luxurious?

 

Supported by Samsung, the two-day affair was launched with a bang at the Marriot Grand Ballroom. With its aim to make Filipino talent and creativity known globally, FEI showcased Asean fashion designers, with Philippine brands highlighted through a series of events, including an industry talk, designers’ showroom, an international designer presentation, and a fashion buyers’ show.

 

The event’s highlight was a runway show featuring ready-to-wear pieces from established designers Ivarluski Aseron, Francis Libiran, Dennis Lustico and Laurel. It was truly a fashion extravaganza, and thus, the height of luxury for me.

 

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