I resolve... The new 'socialites'
MANILA, Philippines - Amina Aranaz-Alunan does not have to work a day in her life, yet she lives by her passions for fashion, imbibed by a family that fosters creativity, productivity and charity. Her mother Becky Aranaz, in particular, has passed onto her daughter the values needed in order to make it.
They are blessed, and they know that — that is why they choose to give back. Amina is the featured designer of RIIR — or Rags to Riches, an organization that empowers the women of Payatas to make treasures out of trash.
“I didn’t expect us to be able to do it,” said Ate Cynthia, the spokesperson of the Payatas women. “We thought we could only make rags.” With proper training at SoFA or the School of Fashion and the Arts and the guidance of the mother-daughter tandem of Amina and Becky, the women of Payatas amazed not only themselves but also the crowd of women at Greenbelt 5 who bought these now-prized possessions. The bags were sold out that night.
Amina and the gang are in the news now, both literally and sartorially. In fact, for this Supreme exclusive shoot, she is wearing a Philippine Star comics section that Jojie Lloren himself designed, the same one that was on exhibit to complement the bags.
The term “socialite” is as blasé and passé as can be. The new socialite is one that engages in social responsibility, advocacy, and causes. One who is highly aware and highly pro-active — now, that’s high class.
Amina Aranaz-Alunan
When I wake up, I listen to...Whether or not my two babies are crying.
The song that I sing in the shower is... I don’t sing in the shower. I think about the things I need to do.
While having breakfast, the song I’m humming to is... Barney’s “I Love You, You Love Me, We’re a Happy Family...” (Laughs.) I’m such a mom!
In the car, on my way to work, the radio is playing...To the station 88.3.
At work, my mind is tuned to...The voices of my students.
On lunch break, I can hear...My stomach growling.
Back at work, my motivational soundtrack is...Dependent on my collection inspiration. Currently, Glenn Miller from “Rags to Riches” CD.
Merienda time, I groove to..My stomach growling again.
After 5, the best chillout tune for me is... Cafe Del Mar with a cold cocktail.
Dinner tastes better with the sound of... My husband talking to me with our wedding cd playing in the background.
To get the night started, I play... Neo-soul music.
To get me in a party mood, I play DJ to the sound of... Hiphop/R&B because Rafa (my husband) likes it.
I embark on a sweet dream journey listening to... Bach or Chopin.
