There are certain things you can’t do without—for instance, a pair of statement earrings. No matter what your style, I bet there are a few pairs of earrings in your dresser that can enhance any outfit. That’s why I’m always on the lookout for new jewelry lines.
Flora Magica by Liane Aboitiz is one local accessories brand worth checking out. I simply love the colors and designs inspired by nature.
For her first collection, Aboitiz played with the idea of traveling to a tropical destination. “My brand is inspired by the natural world, so I wanted to use materials like seashells to highlight their raw and beautiful features, but still make them wearable and fun,” she said.
She uses raw shells and mother-of-pearl to create hoops, pineapples and monstera leaves. These materials are found in the Philippines.
The Bali hoop is one of her favorites. “I love the delicate carving of the mother-of-pearl and the way the material shines when it catches the light. The Bali hoop is a piece that is understated and unique, designed to elevate the natural features of the mother-of-pearl,” she said.
She works with both local and Asia-based manufacturers. Some materials are also sourced from all over the world.
Asked who will appreciate these pieces, she said: “I picture a woman putting on a simple top and jeans, and throwing on my earrings to achieve that relaxed, beach-chic vibe.”
Aboitiz accepts orders via her Instagram page (@shopfloramagica), but she also has scheduled trunk shows in Manila and Cebu. The collection will be launched by end of May, so keep refreshing your browser for updates.
Serums
Serums are another essential I turn to, no matter what weather is. If you’re keen on keeping your skin hydrated, serums are key. I think they are best applied under moisturizer to lock the good stuff in.
When I travel, I pack Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate. A few drops helps my skin stay plump and healthy in the plane’s dry cabin. You can just apply it and go straight to sleep. The turnaround is almost instant, but it’s also created with natural and gentle ingredients like lavender essential oil, evening primrose oil and squalane.
It seems the cult classic has found its daytime equivalent. If you need some extra defense against pollutants during the day, there is the Daily Reviving Concentrate. I think this is important as your skin gets quite a beating from the sun, smog and various elements. Once the damage is done, it can take quite a while to reverse it.
The Daily Reviving Concentrate helps prevent problems before they occur. This serum has ginger root, sunflower and tamanu oils that work together to smoothen and strengthen the skin from irritants.
The brand has other serums that deal with specific problems. Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution has activated vitamin C, white birch and peony extracts that help clarify skin without being too harsh.
If your issue is fine lines, you may want to try Kiehl’s Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing Concentrate. It boasts of a strong 12.5 percent vitamin C to reduce wrinkles. Once the skin absorbs it, the vitamin C activates the upper layers of the skin and targets the problem immediately.
It also contains hyaluronic acid that draws water to the skin and keeps it there. The result is plumper, healthier skin.
I suggest you list down which skin issues you want to first address to find which serum best suits you. And then observe how the serum can be correctly integrated into your existing routine. I think you’ll easily find one or a couple that you can’t do without.
