Local is premium

Manila’s retail landscape has welcomed the plethora of foreign brands. The scene to be seen is filled with designer and mainstream names both high and low, which have become a must-have in every Filipino’s closet.

More is yet to come in a jam-packed fashion atmosphere that’s delightfully unnoticed. The influx is perennially unavoidable due to the up-and-coming open trade, and the issue of the survival of local brands is a hot topic. As a result, the blinded realities have become a grueling survival test of the fittest and the best. The bigger picture here is to bring back interest in buying Filipino products and immortalize local as the new premium.

Two decades in the local bag industry have made Fino leatherware one of the trusted names in the leather fashion. From the hands of Filipino talent, art and fashion are combined to produce handmade masterpieces worthy of international recognition. Brilliance of design and creativity, high standard of craftsmanship, and quality of materials such as hardware and leather (same suppliers of Gucci, Hermès, etc.) are all rolled into one to produce the distinction that’s made in the Philippines. 

What’s in the bag? Beyond its beauty, the brand promotes the creativity of Filipino artisans. Deeply rooted in Philippine tradition and culture, Fino supports this sustainable community to save the “handmade” bag industry. Furthermore, the brand has an education fund for the children of these artisans.

New trends and forecasts rise at the forefront of style where this forever piece comes in all shapes and sizes; but Fino remains to be a bag for all seasons. The brand’s extensive range of classics is timeless and has become a staple for one’s everyday wear.

As the latest season unfolds, the local expert in fine leatherware unveils capsule collections of trendsetting relevance. From the latest in design, technology and hardware accessories, the brand is constantly reinventing the classics to keep up with the pace of global fashion. Up-to-date leather in amazing treatments, color and textures redefines the look and feel of every bag.

There is a need to find an equilibrium between both local and imported products in the market. We should take pride in tracing our roots. Moreover, there is an urgent concern in the promotion and preservation of the artisanal communities. The current times are insightfully calling to bring back to the spotlight to what is made in the Philippines.

The expanding fashion retail landscape in the country is creating more space, which can have a harmonious balance with its international counterparts. The optimistic style scene is getting bigger and it’s time to spotlight local as a premium.

Photography by MAU AGUASIN • Styling by LUIS ESPIRITU JR. • Makeup and hairstyling by SARI CAMPOS •  Model: JO ANN BITAGCOL • Wardrobe by SEEK THE UNIQ • All bags by FINO Leatherware (Glorietta 3, Alabang Town Center, Eastwood Mall, The Podium, TriNoma, SM Mall of Asia, Power Plant Mall, Robinsons Magnolia, Robinsons Place Ermita and Shangri-La Plaza. For more information, visit finoleatherware.com and finoleatherware on Facebook and Instagram.)