[Fashion] Top 10 finds at the Superb Bazaar

MANILA, Philippines – Shopping in bazaars today is no longer just about finding great bargains but discovering emerging Filipino artisans and new labels as well.

Bazaars in recent years have become a launchpad for one-of-a-kind “new designer” pieces and brands. Meg and Rusty Lopez, for instance, are two brands that started by selling in bazaars before branching out to malls.

At the Superb Bazaar in World Trade Center, up-and-coming local designers staged their own fashion preview alongside Philippine Fashion Week Holiday 2012. Close to a hundred local and international brands showcased their products, making the bazaar a degustation of the best fashion finds in the country. 

Here are some of the more unique creations from local designers that RAPPLER found:

1. Ethnic satchel by Queen Street – Php 600

Here’s a new spin on the leather satchel that has been making the rounds of Manila fashion. The ethnic print and bright yellow straps are perfect interpretations of this season’s hottest trends on prints and colors. On-trend bags have actually been Queen Street’s forte.

2. Brass and metal jewelry by Vida Lim – Php 3,000 and up

Luxe is this brand’s middle name. Though pricey, one can expect quality material and craftsmanship from Filipino artisan Vida Lim. Her accessories — from jewelry to evening bags — are made from brass or silver that are plated in gold and embellished with semi-precious stones and crystals. 

3. Leather clutch by Tocande – Php 3,000

Those in search for one-of-a-kind leather evening bags will love Tocande’s take on the classic clutch. Geometric and architectural, each piece has an unexpected feature that adds a touch of quirky appeal.

4. Domino Necklace by Reap – Php 1,250

Made from actual dominos and woven with metal chains, this originally-designed and handmade necklace is the creation of young designer Chynna Gonzales. She often makes use of recyclable materials, turning old, shabby stuff into fabulous statement pieces.

5. Leather shoes with interchangeable accents by Gold Dot – Php 895

Designed and made in Marikina, Gold Dot flats are super comfy and easy to pair with different outfits with their clip-on, clip-off accents that one can interchange to complement an outfit. 

6. Vintage bags by Finders Keepers – Php 650 and up

Fashionistas who love vintage bags will find a lot of keepers among Finders Keepers’ selections. Though preloved, the bags are clean, in great condition and inexpensive. 

7. Book locket by Junk Studio – Php 260

From contemporary hits like Harry Potter to classics like the Little Prince, book junkies can now have their favourite books closer to their hearts — literally — with these miniature book lockets. What’s more, one can even use it as bookmark!

8. Fashionista Cakes by Once upon a Cake – Php 150 

Designer cupcakes take on a different meaning with this local cupcake maker’s creations. Now fashionistas can have their Louis Vuittons and Birkins and eat them, too!

9. Reworked vintage bag by Unisex Rewind – Price upon request

Quirky and certainly unique, this vintage leather bag is reworked with an actual telephone handset as its new handle. Unisex Rewind has actually a lot of other reworked pieces using different materials that will add whimsy and quirk to a simple outfit. 

10. Leather collar with pyramid studs by Ruckus – Php 350

Collars are the new chokers. From sequined to lace, the collar has seen a lot of variations in recent months. Ruckus’ leather version is certainly a new interpretation of the trend and one that will defintely rock!

The Superb Bazaar is organized by the SuperSale Bazaar team. They will have another bazaar this July and December at the World Trade Center. – Rappler.com

(Amyline Quien Ching is the editor of Manila Bulletin’s junior section, Funpage, and parenting section, Moms&Kids.)

Click on the links below for more.

• [Fashion] Phil. Fashion Week hangover diaries
• [Fashion] Bayo reveals phases 2 and 3 of campaign cut short
• The best Bayo ‘what’s your mix’ memes