Style icons
and fashion enthusiasts converged at the North Court of Rockwell Center’s Power
Plant Mall in Makati City for the Rags2Riches (RIIR) by ARANAZ Holiday
Collection 2012.
Entitled “Nudos,” the Spanish translation for “knots,” the
second collaboration of RIIR and ARANAZ exudes boldness and enduring elegance.
Created by one of the most respected and in-demand homegrown designers today,
Amina Aranaz-Alunan has raised the fashion ante by making eco-ethical style an
in-trend fashion statement.
“The Nudos collection is
handwoven by our Rags2Riches Cooperative in Payatas and assembled by our
in-house workshop. All knots for
this collection, which are new artisan techniques introduced by Amina
specifically for these bags and accessories, were handmade in our in-house
workshop by our highly skilled, full-time artisans. Our hope is that with the success of this
collection, these beautiful fashion accessories and new artisan skills can be
extended to all Rags2Riches communities,”
said Reese Fernandez, president for Rags2Riches.
RIIR artisans are known for their weaving skills primarily using
upcycled scrap fabric. The versatility of the fabric lends itself nicely to
different textures and techniques. For the RIIR by ARANAZ collection, designer
Amina Aranaz-Alunan was inspired to play around with various kinds of knots, a
new technique which introduced a different texture to the stylish pieces.
“I had
a book about making knots and decided to play around with the scrap fabrics,”
shared Alunan.
RIIR’s collections have captured the attention of the fashion
world since it launched eco-ethical style in the Philippines in 2007. It has
gained a steady following among fashion cliques in Manila, Asia and Europe,
with illustrious personalities being seen donning an ensemble with an RIIR
piece.
RIIR
and ARANAZ sets the trend for bags and accessories
A visually stimulating art installation was the backdrop for the latest line of must-have bags and accessories from RIIR and ARANAZ. Guests also marveled at the haute couture gowns provided by Tina Daniac, while music by internationally- acclaimed violinist Coke Bolipata and pianist Jourdann Petalver created the ambient mood during the exclusive black and gold affair.
Noteworthy about the RIIR and ARANAZ holiday collaboration
are the sumptuous colors and intricate weaving techniques that were highlighted
in all the accessories. The adherence to eco-ethical style makes every RIIR
accessory one-of-a-kind. Stand-out pieces in the RIIR by ARANAZ Nudos line
include the “Amara,” a braided clutch
with wooden frame accent, removable antique chain strap and magnetic closure;
“Lazada,” a molded clutch in abaca with braided trim detail
and knotted cotton flap with magnetic closure; “Sobre,” an envelope clutch in x-small basket weave, jute
flap and knotted braided accent with interior pocket; and “Cartera,” a purse in knitted cotton x-small basket weave,
knotted ball puller and cotton lining with interior pocket. “Pulsera,” a cuff bracelet with knotted braid accent and
vachetta leather with golden snap closure, simply commands attention.
“Lazo,” a necklace with three cotton knot pendants,
braided cotton strap with braided string, antique chain and suede string
accents, is reminiscent of vintage sophistication. “Cuello,” a knotted cotton braid choker with braided
string, antique chain and suede string strap, transcends the unique balance of
restraint and innovation.
“RIIR by Aranaz Nudos Holiday Collection is an audacious
attempt to bring fashion forward. Each stylish piece is unique and exquisite.
It speaks to the chic, independent, elegant and empowered women of today who
embody the eco-ethical lifestyle,” said Fernandez.
RIIR by ARANAZ Nudos Holiday Collection was presented by RCBC
Diamond MasterCard, Visual Mannequin Solution (VMS) and Power Plant Mall.
About Rags2Riches, Inc. (R2R)
R2R is a for-profit social enterprise based in Manila,
Philippines, creating eco-ethical fashion and home accessories out of upcycled
scap cloth, indigenous, and organic materials by working with artisans from
community-based enterprises across the country. To know more about RIIR’s
products and social statement, log on to www.rags2riches.ph.
About the Designer:
Amina Aranaz- Alunan is a Filipino bag designer and
School of Fashion and the Arts (SoFA) co-founder. She graduated Cum Laude from
Instituto Marangoni in Milan and returned to Manila to build the family bag
brand, Aranaz. She was awarded by Philippine Daily Inquirer’s Super as the
designer of the Year for 2006 and was nominated in the Accessories Designer of
the Year category at the Mega Fashion Awards 2007. She is also a member of the
Fashion and Design Council of the Philippines (FDCP). Known for her fralir for
fashion, she is also often cited as one of Manila’s style icons. Amina
Aranaz-Alunan and her mother Becky Aranaz, greatly contributed to Rags2Riches’
growth as a more sustainable social business enterprise. Amina also supported
the Rags2Riches women with skills training through her School of Fashion and
the Arts, or SOFA Manila.
