It’s the midyear, which means it’s the season of sales and wardrobe revamps. As always, shopping smart means copping pieces that are fresh but won’t go out of style. Looking to buy wardrobe staples outside of Shein and mall usuals? Here’s a list of brands you might want to check out.
Love, Bonito
Singaporean brand Love, Bonito has a collection called The Staples for modern chic needs. It includes pieces with clean-cut silhouettes such as the Norah Square Neck Bodysuit with its square neckline, the Devynn Padded Cropped Tank which fits like a glove, and the Morie High Waisted Straight Leg Pants with its thick waistband.
If you think tank tops and tailored shorts can’t be classy, this brand can change your mind. It has an ongoing 80% off online sale that lasts until June 12, if you’re on the lookout for a deal. You can also find it on Zalora.
Renegade Folk
Teaming up with local sapateros and makers, Renegade Folk creates pieces familiar to Filipinos. Take its selection of leather footwear for example. You may recognize the classic designs of the High Spirits Sandals and OMW Half Flats. You can pair them with garments like the Easy Vest and Sunny Cargo Pants for a relaxed but still sophisticated look.
Visit it online or its shops at UP Town Center, Glorietta 3, and Ayala Cebu.
Bagasáo
Bagasáo creative director Seph Bagasáo describes the brand’s Spring/Summer 2022 collection called “Oasis” as “part resort chic, part frenetic nomade.” We’re adding a luxury ready-to-wear entry on this list for folks who like seeing dreamy inspirations translated to classic construction. Pieces like the Square Top with its tie-up scarf lapel and statement buttons, the structured Box Vest, and the tailored drop crotch Column Shorts put delightful spins on must-haves.
Take a peek online or visit Comme Çi at Power Plant Mall.
Rags2Riches
With its team of artisans from underprivileged communities, Rags2Riches continues to empower artists with pieces such as the ones from its Better Basics capsule. Some of our faves from the line are the reversible 4-Way Top with Binetwagan weave, The Boiler Suit, and The Wide Pleated Trousers.
You can shop its goods online or visit its showroom at Quezon City and its store at UP Town Center.
Label
Working with a small community of sewers in Cavite, Label is a brand dedicated to making feminine basics in pops of color. Its 2022 collection includes fun pieces like the Kat trousers featuring a wide leg that’s gathered at the ankle and the Jo and Viv linen set with a spaghetti strap top.
There’s also an ongoing sale on their site for select pieces such as their Afternoon Tea tunics and Perfect Playlist reversible apron. It’s giving fun tita vibes.
Mantou
Mantou has a selection of simple everyday basics that are easy to build with. Some of our picks from its latest collection are the Bree Shortsleeve Bodysuit, the Blair Denim Bermuda Shorts, and the Nyla Denim Jumpsuit.
You can visit it online or at its stores at The Park located at UP Town Center and Shangri-La Plaza.
Art by Pammy Orlina
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