HOW do you give your ensemble some oomph?
No matter how ordinary someone’s overall look is, it can still be spiced up with the help of accessories. It can be the neckpiece, earrings, or the bag that goes with the gown, dress, or suit.
Two designers from Davao City have given their latest bag collection an upgrade to make each piece stand out. Both Rodwel Poral and Egay Ayag have shown that beaded bags can be head-turners when incorporated with an out-of-the-box concept.
Design 8 PH, a local enterprise supported by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Davao, has just launched its Ostrich Feathers Baguette Handbag.
In an online interview, Rodwel described this new collection as “sassy formal, fancy, and dreamy.”
“The collection is diverse in terms of its aesthetic. It's a handmade handbag created by threading material through chalk and crystal beads, and using only threaded beads and ostrich feathers as material for the bag,” he shared. “Beaded bags have been produced for centuries, and accordingly, are a popular antique item.”
Rodwel further narrated that as trendsetters for arts and crafts, they are dedicated to “hands-on creativity”, which means that they constantly test, experiment, and invent something new and exciting products per season.
“In this collection, we interpreted, upgraded and specified the handiwork of the ‘30s epochs where the design craftsmanship is superb,” the designer explained.
He added that the collection comes from the idea of having a bag that fringes to complement the overall look for every occasion. Thus, it brings out the confidence to mix and match colors and combine looks.
With the versatility of the design, the market for every product is vast. Whether you are in your mid-20s, a young professional, or someone at the age of 60, these bags can still be part of your look.
Rodwel said that “fashion enthusiasts or fashionistas, working class, discerning, well-informed, thinkers, and those who enjoy an active lifestyle and serious spenders” are their target clients.
“Why? Because they’re strong yet subtle, modern yet timeless, hard-working yet easy-going empowered women,” he said.
When asked about the relevance of their newest designs to the local fashion industry, Rodwel harped on the vital role of innovation.
“Well, with new trends and ideas, fashion has an eye towards the future. The fashion industry will indeed see huge amounts of innovation in the coming years as new technology and changing customer trends and demands will transform the industry,” he said. “On top of it is to create more jobs and income for the community that we're currently working with.”
Amid the opportunities in the fashion industry, Rodwel advised the aspiring designers to build their online portfolio to establish their credibility. And this must include the uniqueness of their designs to make them stand out.
“Fashion design is one of the most popular professions in the world. Millions of people are interested in this field, and there are many who want to work as designers. Nowadays, a professional online presence is essential for designers and creatives,” he stressed.
In the meantime, Rodwel encouraged his colleagues in the industry to keep on thinking outside the box and continue innovating and creating new designs that are distinct, fashion forward, and undeniably world-class to be relatable.
Rodwel likewise shared that with the opening of the economy, the industry is expected to flourish.
“During the recession or pandemic time, fashion becomes the least priority and issues like value for money and durability become more important; hence it affected the demand for trendy items. On the other hand, if the economy is strong and the local or national income is high, fashion flourishes and I believe that jobs and the economy go hand in hand, and this is true in the fashion industry. When more jobs are created, the economy does better,” he concluded.
Design 8 PH will launch another line soon, the Shaggy Minaudiere Clutch Bag Collection.
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If you have special events, interesting lifestyle stories, and fashion tips to share, you are always free to reach me at mendoza.jennygrace@gmail.com. You may also follow Purple’s Nook on Facebook for more updates.