If there’s one thing I’m definitely marupok about, it’s definitely shopping. Since I buy clothes on the reg, I made a promise to myself last year that I’d be more deliberate about my purchases moving forward. We’re in our third month of the year, and I’m pretty proud to have stuck to this so far.
During the last quarter of 2019, I started to invest in more quality basics that helped curb my shopping habit. Since my wardrobe didn’t deteriorate every few washes anymore, I’ve had to rethink if I really did need something before buying it. (For one-off occasions, I can always rent now!) I’m still working on it, but I’m glad to have made progress in lessening my carbon footprint on the fashion front.
Since I can already feel summer creeping around the corner, though, I’ve been on the lookout for season-appropriate pieces I can cycle every other week as I do with my year-round staples. I wear black 95% of the time as a “uniform” and I just change up my ~lewk~ with different outerwear depending on my mood, but I can’t just do that without dying when summer hits peak temperature.
Photo: Magic Liwanag
Enter these local brands to tide me through the hot season. I’m not going to lie, I’ve actually been eyeing some of these pieces since last year. I only gave in to stocking my closet with lighter fabrics just recently, when I started feeling uncomfortable with the hot-cold weather.
How I wish I already have disposable savings to buy everything on this list, but I look forward to rewarding myself with some of the pricier items when I feel like I deserve them. I may never even get them, but they’ll stay on my wishlist until I lose to my EQ or they run out of stock. Lol!
If you’re shopping for new wardrobe staples, check out these locally made pieces to last you well beyond summer.
andanté Sportif Sandals
“Built from the belief that the things we own should last, able to stand the test of time and trends,” is precisely why this brand is on my list. Of course, the sandals caught my eye first. (I actually still can’t decide whether to get black or tan.) What convinced me to buy is the brand itself.
While they sell ready-to-wear pairs, they actually accept pre-orders each time they begin production of new items to lessen unsold stocks and, ultimately, lessen waste. andanté also “practices fair trade as we engage in safe and sustainable methods of producing handmade crafts for better impact on stakeholders and the environment.” All their pairs are proudly made by shoe artisans in Marikina.
Style tip Wear this pair with shorts, pants, or dresses—this is one of those sandals that will look good with anything!
andanté is available online and at Frankie General Store, 2/F SM Aura Premier, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City.
Strange Mercy Graphic Tees
I first encountered Strange Mercy and its line of souvenir tees when I dropped by Kubo by PIOPIO last month. When I looked into their Instagram, I just fell in love with everything. Their super soft graphic goods feature designs meant to empower as it speaks of positive energy, sisterhood, and the divine feminine. I probably would’ve already bought from their line of zodiac-inspired tees, but, unfortunately, they’re almost all sold out. I’m here waiting for the next restock!
Style tip The hip flower child vibe of Strange Mercy’s designs will look good over your bikini on a beach trip or under a blazer in the office. You can’t beat a good graphic tee!
Strange Mercy is available online and at Kubo by PIOPIO, 109 Esteban Street, Legazpi Village, Makati City.
Katré Thames Bag
I’ve been in love with this brand’s designs since I first discovered it five years ago. At the time, I couldn’t afford to buy anything yet, but I’m slowly building up to it! Personally, I’m eyeing the Thames because I think it will go well with the rest of my wardrobe. (My bags and shoes are usually the only pops of color in my day-to-day outfits!) They also recently launched a collection featuring Hello Kitty, which is a departure from their usual unembellished pieces, if you want to carry a bit of your childhood anywhere you go. One of the more expensive pieces on this list, it’s definitely something I plan to wear out for years and years before I retire it!
Style tip Get the most mileage out of your pricier investments by getting them in colors that go with 90% of your wardrobe!
Katré is available at the Katré Pop-Up Store, 3/F Greenbelt 5, Ayala Center, Makati City.
Sandy Cheeks Teacher’s Pet
Let it be said, I probably go to the beach only once or twice a year. I’d love to go more often, but my time just doesn’t permit it. I’m also quite the city girl, so a sun-sand-and-sea trip requires a lot of prep for me. Since I already wear a lot of black throughout the year, I’m taking the opportunity to dress a bit brighter this summer—starting with new swimwear. I’ve already gotten my own pair of this highlighter-hued set, which I love because of the flattering silhouette. I’ve come to know Sandy Cheeks as an inclusive brand, carrying suits up to 4XL for most of their styles, and I love how it looks good on girls of all sizes!
Style tip After summer, I plan to layer my bikini top underneath some of my revealing clothing for a peek-a-boo surprise. That way, I don’t have to keep it in my closet until the next beach trip!
Sandy Cheeks is available online.
Even though summer doesn’t last forever, the season’s wardrobe staples don’t have to go in the back of your closet once the rain starts pouring. There are so many brands that create timeless styles now, so it’s easier to be mindful of our purchases. If you must shop like I enjoy doing, it’d be great to support local while you’re at it!
