A toast to Oro

Filipino designer Rosanna Ocampo Rodriguez recently celebrated her 7th years in the industry by unveiling her latest collection entitled "Gold Rush" by Oro. Due to the increasing clientele and demand for made to order pieces, Oro is the designer's premium label of bespoke creations that display high quality materials and are mostly sewn by hand. These beautiful and modern interpretations showcase a design perspective reflective of European sensibilities and a distinct taste channeling the now lifestyle.  The designer isn't all about making a statement as her pieces echo the essence of making and undestanding the beauty of clothes. Oro's empowering collection is of current style relevance as it celebrates the nowness of femininity. Form and function goes beyond the surface in a presentation of chicness of individuality. The ultimate key is quality and a fusion of style between designer and client to create a  masterpiece that's distinctly special.  All in a matter of discerning taste and aesthetics, Oro is a contemporary reflection of what women want and wear in these modern times.

The art of Lady Scott Jones

Lady Scott Jones recently opened its showroom to the local style scene showcasing its range of chic decorative fixtures.  Inspired from travels to te South of France, these distinctly well-made masterpieces display the uniqueness and code of understated refinement.  Brushed with the palette of modern neutrals, amazing textures captivates even the most discerning of taste with its alluring attractions.  A fusion of style alter egos, Lady Scott Jones channels its global design sensibilities by bringing the world into the local market. Unique decorative offerings present a contemporary and refreshing perspective.  More than just a conversation piece, the beauty of these fine creations stem from well-thought of cultural/historical references realized into this era of nowness. These luxe settings boasts of amazing artisanal touches with  high standard of quality and craftsmanship one will truly adore. Lady Scott Jones is the new benchmark of a breed of young tastemakers offering an alternative concept into the plethora of design sensibilities flourishing in the Philippines.  

Fashioning Yin-yang.

Perfect sitting.

Arch of style.

Wood wonders.

Style wisdom.

Classic tribute.

Tall order.

My favorite piece.

Sense and sensibilities.

There's company.

Fine textures.

Perfectly hand-made.

Poetry and prose.

Inspire.

Modern art comes in a variety of forms and vinyl is one among the many.  While in Hongkong,  this author chanced upon this exhibit amidst the shopping and cuisine it's known for.  From the bright hues to black and whites, the interesting palette is seemingly refreshing. Being a non-art expert, the showcase is a form of beauty as it is to the eye of te beholder. The now and new becomes a source of inspiration in the process of creation. 

Channeling Coco

Fashion icon Coco Chanel is an inspiration to many. Her natural penchant for style and elegance has timelessly influenced women from all over the world. Through the decades, many greats have followed suit and her legacy has transcended into modern day lifestyle.

In the Philippines, the spirit of the fashion legend lives through a new haven of beauty-Coco Nail Studio.  Channeling the chic vibe, this neighborhood nail spa located south of Manila is a habitué of beauty and style in refinement.  Inspired from contemporary French apartments, the alluring interiors echo European design aesthetics as seen in immaculate white sofas, ashen drapes, sparkling ceiling decor.  Muted hues beautifully paint a style-setting atmosphere of relaxed elegance. The look sets an unpretentious mood where comfort is a tall order. Top of the line nail care and other premium services such as hair threading, waxing and chair massage options is what Coco Nail studio is all about.  Luxe brands such as Chanel, Butter London, Opi, Zoya, Jennifer Lynn Gel and Gelish by Harmony UK paint chic nails and every treatment comes with complimentary drinks together with their Buttercream Macaron signature.  For special  treats, they offer afternoon tea packages for small tete a tete during the weekends and spa party packages tailored to your budget.  

Coco Nail Studio is the new relaxing hub tucked away from the maddening city.  Refined aesthetics combined with personalized services have never looked so chic. Simplicity of elegance is made  timeless in this pretty haven that's definitely a sweet tribute to Coco.

Coco Nail Studio  

2nd Floor Don Gesu Bldg., Don Jesus Blvd., AlabangHills.

Tel. No. (02) 552-3156

Mobile No. (0917) 5685675

Jewelmer SS 2014

Golden South Sea pearls is a prized possession in the Philippines and considered a treasure all over the world.  Created by the wonders of nature, the national gem is a masterpiece adorned by all for its beauty and perfection.  Jewelmer, the globally renowned brand presents its Spring/Summer 2014 collection with a wide range of pearl attractions.  This season's highlight piece is the captivating "Mon Secret".  The beauty of alluring simplicity is showcased in pendant pearls locked with braided high quality Italian leather. Channeling a contemporary vibe, the fashionable and trendy accesory comes in a variety of vibrant and neutral hues. The must-have bracelet's on the radar musings can either be worn by piece or stacked up. The modern appeal presents a young, chic and stylish  approach to casual elegance. 

In the Philippines, check out the 

Jewelmer Joaillerie showrooms located at the Alabang Town Center, Resorts World, The Peninsula Manila, Makati Shangrila, Glorietta 4, Greenbelt 5, Head Office , Mall of Asia , Megamall, Shangrila Plaza Mall, Trinoma, Ayala Center Cebu, and Abreeza Mall Davao.

Women of Style and Substance 2014

People Asia-one of the prestigious glossies in the Philippines-unveils its Women of Style and Substance in their August-September 2014 issue. Since 2005, the annual tribute to celebrate women boasts of an impeccable lineup of noteworthy movers and outstanding achievers representing various industries in the country. These exemplary individuals are the epitome of success and great inspiration to many. The embodiment of the modern woman, this years list include Alice Dixson, Toni Gonzaga, Alexandra Rocha, Bea Rose Santiago, Kara David, Iya Villania, Malou Romero, Jenny Rockett, Ingrid Chua-Go, Mia Arcenas, Alyssa Valdez, Reina Reyes, Maricar Parco, Bianca Guidotti, Yvethe Santiago and MJ Lastimosa.

People Asia is available in  National Bookstores nationwide.

Missing Versailles

At one moment in time in France, this author and close friend/jewelry designer Malou Romero decided to visit one of the  famous landmarks of the country- Versailles.  Behind the golden gates that welcomes you is the grandeur of the gilded French old world charm where luxury is at its finest.  Rich in history, this summer palace was once the playground and setting of the most lavish parties of Marie Antoinette. Not enough words can define and describe the captivating opulence seen from the tiniest to grandest of detail.  The palatial allure is breathtaking where the magnitude of art is seemingly everywhere like the air we breath in. Imagination runs wild and makes one wonder the secret lives of royalty.  Every room and corner sets a mood with stories to tell. One is treated to the luxury of space except during the summer where tourists come more than thousands a day(the scene would definitely elbow to elbow-shoulder to shoulder). Sparkle and shine fill the rooms and hallways with ornate crystal chandeliers, wall to wall mirrors and an endless see of prized fabrics. A perfect representation of beauty of an era or a time that was where we can only dream of. 

From the luxe palace we move to the amazing gardens. Love for nature Lush manicured greeneries go as far as the eyes can see. Beautiful white and golden statues are set against walls of greens like watchers of this priceless scenery. One cant help but stop for a moment to take in the beauty its picture perfect view.  Water is in abundance with lovely centuries old fountains that create nothing but music to ones ears. 

 A memory indeed for the books, a must visit in France you wouldn't want to miss.