“We always say that we want our customers to surround themselves with the things they love and things that inspire them, so our mission is to keep them at their best — whether it be through the clothes they wear or the pieces that fill their home.”
It’s always a dream to chase your passion with your best friend, but Ta LouLou’s Cit Sioson made it her reality. Along with her best friend Denise Juan, they built a brand that stemmed from their love for fashion. Despite their brand’s design being influenced by the memories of their childhood ballet classes and their “penchant for choosing details with a touch of whimsy,” they still vye for a minimal aesthetic.
“As we advocate slow fashion, our pieces are thoughtfully made and meant to be worn regardless of any trend or season so our customers keep only what they can wear over and over again and even pass on to the next generation,” she shared on their brand’s conscious effort towards sustainability.
“Business as usual” for Cit consists of regular cross-checking and constant communication with her business partner/best friend. Along with their brand’s growing success, Cit still makes it a point to oversee every aspect of their business (from customer inquiries to deliveries)—making her a real-life Jules Ostin (from the movie “The Intern”).
It’s not always a smooth road running a business, and when things don’t go as planned, Cit makes it a point to say a little prayer and get back to work. When things get a little bit overwhelming, she makes it a point to give herself time off from things. She’ll either do a bit of breathing exercises, read a good book, sketch or talk to her loved ones.
Cit admits that building a fashion and lifestyle brand isn’t the easiest thing in the world. Despite previously working as a stylist, she wasn’t exactly briefed on the whole process of making clothes. She learned everything on the job. Starting from childrenswear, a women’s line and home furniture, they’re now even producing accessories and other products.
Speaking of accessories, Cit has always been a fan of using jewelry and bags with a sentimental value. The pieces that she has been using since grade school are usually hand-me-downs from her mom. Aside from that, she’s been in love with the newest addition to their products—a nude pouch. She’s been using it for both casual days and nights out.
She started back as an intern back in college, eventually working her way up to where she is now. In pursuing any industry, she thinks it’s always important to always keep grounded. One must always learn from their experiences (may it be good or bad) and be supportive of others “without sacrificing your own principles.”
Comfort has always been part of Cit’s style. As much as you have to respect the occasion by adhering to the dress code set by events, it’s important to still be comfortable in it. “No matter how nice an outfit (or a pair of stilettos) may be, it’s not a pretty sight if you’re constantly squirming in it,” she said.
During a casual day, the same rule applies for her. She shares that her casual go-to outfit consists of a roomy white shirt paired with wide-leg trousers and pointed-toe slip-ons. On days when she knows she’ll be constantly walking, she’ll put on a comfy tee and pair it with some leggings and sneakers.
Overall, Ta LouLou is a reflection of what Cit believes in and practices. Aside from that, it’s apparent how she’s considerate of her clients above all things. Style and comfort is not only applicable to her, she also makes it a point to use her brand to advocate it.
Photos by Samantha Ong
Creative direction by Tricia Guevara
Produced by Tisha Ramirez-Pante
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