Putting away the Halloween decor and replacing them with Christmas trimmings also means preparing one’s outfits for the holidays.
The season is just starting. If you’re expected to RSVP a few parties this early, expect some more invites.
Aside from picking out your cocktail dress and other ensembles, it pays to put a premium on your bag. Like your shoes, the right bag can make or break the outfit.
You can use the bag to complement your look or to provide contrast. It also can be the statement piece, which always makes for a good conversation starter.
The creativity of local bag brands will be just right for these requirements. The ingenuity and the curiosity of designs are endless—not to mention that the materials used are also something of interest.
I believe woven bags always add texture to an outfit. Use one to add a twist to a formal dress. For this, you can head over to Aranáz.
In Aranáz’s holiday 2019 line, you can opt for the Vera beaded mini bucket. A sturdy wooden handle and lots of space make this a good day-to-night piece.
You also get some sparkle with the beaded bugs that adorn the bag. Good to pair with classic black pumps. Find them online at aranaz.ph and at Greenbelt 5.
Another quality woven bag brand is Zacarias 1925. Fun designs pervade its collections, but there are also selections for those who need something sophisticated and seasonless.
I would recommend the Hard Edge clutches. With a choice of colors, it will be your fool-proof bag for impromptu cocktails, or a few to match your every mood. Follow @zacarias1925 on Instagram for more designs and updates.
Gumamela bag
If you love good minaudière, there’s Joanique. In its BSP collection, you’ll find the Gumamela, a bag shaped like the flower.
Hand-carved and hand-embellished, it will breathe new life into a trusty LBD. I believe this is a must for bag collectors or those who are into unique pieces for their eccentric looks. If you fancy this and more, log on to shop.joanique.com.
Celebrating beadwork and embroidery, there’s Bea Valdes Design. I like how the bags put together unlikely elements. Valdes plays with various shapes, making each piece look like an artwork. Something to display on your shelves when you’re not bringing it to the party. Check out @beavaldesdesign on Instagram to see what I mean. It’s no surprise it has stockists all over the world.
Celestina is a brand that caught international attention with finely designed clutches and bags. With attention given to each detail, the materials used for the bags are of high quality always.
They’re timeless and are quite useful for occasions even after the holidays. Find them at Manila House and you might even fancy the brand’s other bags for everyday wear apart from the minaudières.
