Golden legacy
Gold — one of the most popular metals and commonly associated with luxury.
The precious element is relative in meaning. In the history of ancient civilization, the metal wonder was symbolically a prized possession that defined social hierarchy and status. In fashion, gold takes form in various accessories, jewelry and ornamentation. Myth and fantasy have presented it either as a kingdom, a fruit, a form of clothing, a treasure at the end of the rainbow and even symbolically, a touch (Midas).
Science describes gold as the most malleable element that can appear in solid or liquid form. Beyond the glitter, shine and surface of it all, gold can represent power, a number that equates to relevant years and most importantly, a legacy.
In the Philippines, Miladay, one of the institutions in the premium fine jewelry industry, is immortalized as it marks its 50 years with a celebration on Aug. 18 at Revel in Taguig City.
The jewelry company was founded by Ting and Mila Dayrit in 1966. The word “Miladay” was a testament to the love between Ting and Mila, whose visionary philosophy was to offer a wide range of precious jewelry, and for every Filipina to have a Miladay. Through the decades, the brand breathes the air of tradition and values imparted and fashioned by the well-respected matriarch. The same values hold true today. The value and essence of the Miladay collections are prized heirlooms that represent forever pieces, which are handed down from one generation to another.
Today, the spirit of Mila Dayrit lives on through her children as they carry the immortalized testament of love of their parents. The family-owned business is currently managed by second generation Dayrit siblings namely Yvonne Romualdez, Michelle Soliven, Mark Dayrit, Christine Dayrit and Jaqui Boncan. Taking to heart the everlasting seeds planted by their parents, the mom-and-pop business, which started from their garage to their first shop located at Angela Arcade (now Glorietta), has now flourished into nine branches. And still growing.
Moving future forward, their values have turned golden. The classics have been reinvented but with the same values 50 years ago. Miladay presents its latest roster of models representing the next generation: Kara Gozali, Professional Models Association of the Philippines (PMAP) model and medical student; Janeena Chan, host, model and popular blogger; and the current toast of fashion, architecture student and now model Sabina Gonzalez.
Miladay fashion is an institutional trademark of family tradition and values that are timeless. Unbound by space and time, the Filipino brand turned a new leaf as it embraces its golden moment. Though they ride the wave of fashion and trends, the testament continues to exist today, tomorrow, from here to eternity.
Photography by Mau Aguasin • Creative direction and fashion styling by Luis Espiritu Jr.
• Associate stylists: Diane Lasam and Tara Subaldo • Makeup by Ria Aquino, BABA PARMA
and Sari Campos • Hairstyling by GEORGE ALIBEN, JANE CASIMINA and Kierlo Legaspi
