The Christmas season is the most wonderful and my favorite time of the year. Family, friends and their loved ones gather and share love and laughter to celebrate their accomplishments.
This is what we did at the “Swatch are you thankful for this Christmas?” Thanksgiving-Yuletide party of the grand dame of Swatch, Virgie Ramos, at the Swatch & Swatch building in Makati.
Creative genius Gino Gonzales decked out the building in brilliant colors and completed the look with unique Christmas trees and chandeliers.
Slim’s Fashion and Arts school adorned the Swatch façade with a “Laro” (play) theme, turning it into a fun, playful and interactive digital artwork.
Of course, a Pinoy celebration won’t be complete without a delicious feast. This one was prepared by chef Margarita Fores: uni mousse-stuffed squash flower prosciutto wrap; braised bone marrow-crusted US Angus short ribs; Capiz diwal from the Visayas; and refreshing gumamela iced tea flown in from Egypt.
Inspired by Hello Kitty and her love for fun, friends and family, Tita Virgie always knows how to throw amazing parties. She surprised Swatch Philippines creative director Rowell Santiago, National Book Store managing director Xandra Ramos-Padilla and Sanrio Co. president for United States and Asia Yuko Tsuji with birthday cakes and wishes.
Luxe brunch
Just a few blocks away, at Greenbelt, there was also a celebration by Charina Sarte, who spent the day with some of her closest friends and business clients.
Celebrating both the ninth anniversary of her shop and the launch of her newest collection, “Holiday in the Tropics,” the event was as luxurious as it was relaxed.
For her holiday collection, Charina took inspiration from her Filipino roots and her love for travel. The collection combines bright and feminine pieces in light fabrics, perfect for tropical weather.
For its launch, loyal clients and friends were treated to a six-course Möet & Chandon luxe brunch, complete with a champagne pairing led by Matthieu Lerat, Möet & Chandon’s brand ambassador.
To complete the experience, each guest received a surprise loot bag with skincare treats from La Mer inside a feather pouch designed by Charina herself.
Charina Sarte is holding an anniversary sale with discounts of up to 70 percent at the Greenbelt 5 store (until stocks last). Contact 09178353713.
Denim couture
Still in the swing of gratitude and celebrations, the Peninsula Manila was the venue of fashion show that marked the 30th anniversary of fashion designer Randy Ortiz’s career.
It was a testimony to his creative artistry and craftsmanship. There were luxe fabrics with handmade embroidery and beadworks with feminine silhouettes, soft draping and sharp and fun tailoring for men.
Surrounded by his guests who all came in denim couture, Randy paid homage to people who have guided and supported him in his career, most especially his mother—his ultimate fashion inspiration.
Walking the runway were young models, all children of Randy’s muses and celebrity friends, including Juliana Gomez, daughter of Richard and Lucy Gomez; Kaila Estrada, daughter of John Estrada; and children of models Tweetie de Leon-Gonzalez and Marina Benipayo.
More photos on tessaprietovaldes.com.