10 brands to check out at MaArte Fair’s 10th year

MaArte Fair is now on its 10th year.

This annual fundraiser of the Museum Foundation of the Philippines is putting local craftsmen and entrepreneurs in the limelight once again on Aug. 10 to 12. Called MaArte at The Pen, Filipino designs translated in apparel, home, fashion accessories, fragrances, jewelry, and food and beverage will be showcased at The Gallery of The Peninsula Manila in Makati City.

This time, too, MaArte introduces “Pinoy Mancave,” where various products for men will be displayed. It will be inside The Pen’s meeting rooms on the second floor. Len Cabili’s Filip+Inna, Jojie Lloren for La Herminia Piña, Creative Definitions, Balay ni Atong, Natalya Lagdameo, and TLDG by Tweetie de Leon Gonzales are some brands that will be coming out with special products for men.

If you’re wondering what things to buy for yourself (or loved ones for the Christmas because why not), here are some brands to consider:

Ramir

In a tropical country such as ours, sandals and slides will never be out of style. Find a pair at Ramir, a brand with a line of simple and sleek gender netural handmade leather footwear crafted in Marikina.

Rameilius

Looking for men’s accessories? Check out Rameiluis. It’s a brand run by businessman and artist Ramiro A. Luis, who engages in retail, manufacturing, and distribution of designer accessories for men, women, and children.

Gifts and Graces

Gifts and Graces is essentially a foundation that “bridges the gap between artisan communities (active underprivileged communities) and possible customers.” Aside from handwoven bags, they also have jewelry, home accessories, and souvenirs such as T’boli brass, T’nalak weaves, and toys.

Siklo Pilipinas

Siklo Pilipinas is an advocate of eco-ethical lifestyle, so the products they offer are upcycled and beautified inner tube products from junked rubber tires.

Creative Definitions

Established 10 years ago, Creative Definitions makes Philippine-made, export quality products available in the local market. It has silk and cotton scarves and shawls, as well as cotton shorts and other apparel.

Good Luck, Humans

Good Luck, Humans describes itself as “a threadwork studio”, quilting, hand-sewing, embroidering, and patchworking pieces like clutches, dresses, bangles, and ottomans among others.

Domesticity

For home decors, check out Domesticity. It’s a shop which products are made by Filipinos using materials indigenous to our country. It has serving trays made from pandan, table napkins made from 100% local cotton, and cheeseboard made from acacia wood and woven pandan leaves.