It’s officially the start of the Christmas season, which means a calendar full of reunions and parties. From brunch to after-dinner gatherings, our schedules will be packed with plenty of festive get-togethers.
My friends always ask me for the latest local brands to shop from, especially during this party season. So here’s my recommended list of top brands to check out—organized by the time of day.
Chic casuals
Brand label: Yoya
Perfect for: Brunch, lunch, afternoon tea
What I love most about her design aesthetics is how she effortlessly blends soft, sheer fabrics with contrast stitching and utilitarian details—all presented in a feminine way. Her pieces, when worn, make you feel at ease and confident. They fit beautifully, never constricting, yet the tailored craftsmanship ensures a polished look.
Coincidentally, I was one of the first to shop at her latest store in Shangri-La Plaza Mall, which opened last month. I had a wonderful time browsing, especially as Yoya shared that she designed the racks to showcase each capsule collection. It’s a thoughtful touch that makes the shopping experience easier, particularly for those who might feel overwhelmed by too many choices.
Lastly, I was floored by how much Yoya poured her heart and soul into the store’s interiors. The space is filled with warm, white, folded origami-like paper sheets, which are paired with wooden panels that serve as seats. The same folded sheets, towering versions, are also used as partitions for the three dressing rooms, creating a unique and immersive shopping experience.
Pretty playful
Brand label: Yong Studio
Perfect for: Casual dinner and after-dinner drinks
If you want to channel your empowered and playful feminine side, be sure to check out Yong Studio. Its latest collection draws inspiration from the American Wild West, featuring paisley and plaid prints, among others, all crafted from deadstock fabrics. This sustainable approach helps minimize waste, and since the fabrics are deadstock, the pieces are produced in limited quantities. The best part? With fewer items available, there’s a much smaller chance of running into someone wearing the exact same styles.
At its Power Plant branch store opening last month, reimagined country-themed pieces filled the racks. Take your pick from figure-flattering smocking tops (trust me!), flowing skirts, pieces with playful ruffles, to name a few. Here’s a tip—the brand will be releasing more styles in the coming weeks. So stay tuned for those.
Modern elegance
Brand label: R.A.F. Manila X Martin Bautista
Perfect for: Dressy dinner and post-dinner gatherings
I’ve known Martin Bautista for many years, and his talent for making women feel sexy without revealing too much skin has earned him quite a following. This was further confirmed when he said, “Garments should feel like second skin,” at the launch of his collaboration with local brand R.A.F in Vestido last month.
At first glance, I immediately noticed Bautista’s signature elements—exquisite beadwork, soft tulle, and dramatic draping. These details, combined with his fabric choices of knit, denim, and satin, create a sultry and mysterious vibe, presented in a tasteful and elegant manner.
From dresses to coordinates, structured bodices to sheer tops, there are so many stunning designs to choose from that, I assure you, you won’t leave the store with just one purchase.
Easy lounge
Brand label: Bitagcol
Perfect for: Chill weekends
If you love looking at photos of vintage Filipino clothing, then you’re in for a treat with Bitagcol. Model, photographer, and designer Jo Ann Bitagcol may have only started creating her clothing line in 2021, but she has quickly garnered a niche clientele who appreciate artisanal craftsmanship.
Known for her androgynous style, she has seamlessly translated this aesthetic into her loose-fitting and lounge-style designs by printing her own photos onto fabrics. It’s like wearing a piece of art. What’s more, most of her pieces are versatile, offering endless styling options and giving us more reasons to add them to our closets.
It can be a challenge to keep track of where Bitagcol will be next as it has only been participating in bazaars. But don’t worry, the brand have a pop-up this whole month of December at Power Plant Mall.