The country’s fashion capital—Ayala Malls Greenbelt—shimmers splendidly at the heart of Makati City, signalling the excitement and extravagance of this year’s Christmas celebration. Brightly-lit halls illuminate the numerous brands and offerings that Greenbelt houses, from its luxury boutiques to its time-limited pop ups featuring the best of Filipino craftsmanship.
Many of the Philippines’ most esteemed designers have gathered at Greenbelt to showcase their newest products and collections. From ready-to-wear to accessories, shoppers can discover an endless selection of world-class pieces to add to their wardrobe or gift to a loved one this season.
“Over the years, we have been supporting Filipino talent through various efforts such as OPM concerts and rent-free bazaars featuring local delicacies and handcrafted goods. This Christmas, we continue our mission in creating deeper appreciation for local heritage through fashion and world-class craftsmanship,” shares Ayala Malls President Christopher Maglanoc.
Showcasing the country’s best this Christmas
Ayala Malls Greenbelt is the go-to destination of discerning shoppers who not only have impeccable style, but also have sincere passion for local artistry and community building. Echoing these sentiments is the annual Designers’ Holiday Bazaar, which is back to bring over 30 Filipino brands and artisans to the fore. Curated by Bea Zobel Jr and Sofia Zobel-Elizalde, the line-up includes favourites like PIOPIO, Kalye Artisano, Alegre, Chrysara, Artisana Handicrafts, Amal, Matthew & Melka, Auro, Amarie, Mabolo, Yvette’s Bags & Beads, T’nalak Home, Rurungan Collective, Museo Pambata, AARDE, Touch of Craft, Jim Weaver Designs, 17 Hacienda Mar, and more. An event with a cause, 25% of DHB’s sales is donated to Steps Scholarship Foundation and Ayala Foundation for APEC Scholarships to benefit children from CENTEX schools.
Another must-visit pop up is Kaayo, a sustainable fashion brand that showcases traditional weaving and beading by ethnic tribes in Mindanao. The racks are populated with Inabel tops, earth-toned dresses, hand-embroidered polos, hand-beaded pants, and more. The communities behind Kaayo’s masterfully crafted pieces are paid bi-weekly, allowing them to build their houses, send their kids to school, and provide for their family’s daily needs. Very fittingly, the brand name “Kaayo” (which is a Bisayan term) stands for “kindness,” “to go beyond,” and “for the good.”
Rhett Eala also makes an appearance in Greenbelt 5. Its pop up store resembles an art exhibit with colourful abstract paintings on the walls, adding edge and moodiness to the space. The renowned designer—who has dressed beauty queens, celebrities, and politicians—showcases his RTW collection including chiffon ponchos, tweed dresses, ternos, and more. The Rhett Eala pop up store also features two more designers: TDLG Designs by Tweetie de Leon-Gonzalez and BITAGCOL by Jo-Ann Bitagcol. The former presents handmade statement pieces proudly designed by Tweetie herself, with elements sourced from around the globe. Meanwhile, the latter takes a modern and unconventional approach to fashion. Jo-An prints carefully curated photographs of Filipiniana (which she took herself) on silk scarves and garments, thus paving new avenues and interactions for art appreciation.
Finally, Zara Juan given homage to local talent with its 100% handmade pieces ranging from bags, accessories, and home goods. Wardrobe staples include the Ambassador Tote, a nostalgic design that stands out for its Bamboo Solihiya and embroidery, inspired by traditional chairs owned by the designer’s grandparents. Another is the Busina Mini, a Jeepney-shaped bag that also serves as a funky décor; meanwhile, the Kartero Bag crossbody bag comes with an adjustable strap made with handwoven material handcrafted by the weavers of Benguet Province.
Polished, sophisticated, and world-class quality, the country’s celebrated designers have gathered at Greenbelt to showcase the best items to gift to yourself or loved ones this Christmas. For more information, head to www.ayalamalls.com or visit @ilovegreenbelt on Instagram and @Greenbelt.AyalaMalls on Facebook.
