Though clothes are popular gift ideas, they’re fairly tricky to get right. They’re personal after all, and there are so many aspects you need to consider before settling on a perfect gift: the recipient’s fashion style, favorite colors, and even the fabric. Luckily, we’ve wrapped up a few pieces that will surely be a hit for the holiday season.
More than just adding to a loved one’s wardrobe, these pieces help support local businesses that produce eco-friendly products and underserved communities. And the best part? You’ll even get to skip the long lines at the mall because most of these are also sold online.
Rafikimono
Combining elements of a traditional wardrobe with the practicality of a bathrobe, Rafikimono produces one-off pieces that can be used for leisure or for special events. Their handcrafted pieces use satin and textiles that showcase vibrant patterns from all over Asia and the Americas.
Available at The Good Trade
Maison Métisse’s Amor Kimono
Inspired by Adrienne Charuel’s travels in Mexico and Japan, the Amor Kimono features a contemporary interpretation of our country’s handweaving heritage. The kimono is woven with 100 percent cotton thread, poly-cotton fabric, and features sacred hand-embroidered designs by the Itneg tribe from Northwestern Luzon.
Available online at Our Source, and at Frankie & Friends, Kubo by Piopio, and Lanai
Candid Clothing’s 10-Way Scarf
Known as a brand that helps reduce waste through the use of factory surplus fabric, Candid Clothing also carries scarves made from lightweight bamboo cotton. This versatile pieces come in black, navy, emerald, and gray and can be worn as a double or triple loop scarf, a knee-length or maxi skirt, a cardigan, or a Grecian dress.
Available at Candid Clothing
RIOtaso Clothing’s Bel(a)t Bag
While we’re on the topic of brands that help reduce waste through their products, grab a piece from RIOtaso Clothing. Their Bel(a)t bags, in particular, are made of recycled and repurposed scrap fabric that come in yellow or olive green. For the holiday season, they are rolling out Bel(a)t bags in mustard yellow and army green.
Available at Our Source
Habi Footwear & Lifestyle
Habi Footwear & Lifestyle is a social enterprise that works with impoverished communities around Quezon City to produce footwear, bags, pouches, and other accessories. One of its newer pieces is the Belle Slim heels, which is made of man-made suede and upcycled cloth heels woven by a partner community in Payatas.
Available at Habi Lifestyle
Cacatoès
Cacatoès, a Brazilian brand launched in 2016, has brought its selection of sandals to Manila. The sandals are made of recycled plastic, which is processed, dyed, and melted into a mold to produce lightweight and comfortable sandals that can be used for all occasions.
Available online at Cabanna Living, and at their physical store at Power Plant Mall
Writer: ANGELA PATRICIA SUACILLO
