Empresario 2011 Holiday Trunk Show

On November 12, 2011, Empresario Manila had its first holiday event, a unique trunk show that was held at Greenbelt 4's M Cafe.

For this trunk show, Empresario handpicked a handful of one-of-a-kind Filipino accessory and clothing designers whose products really showcased the talent and excellent craftsmanship evident in this country.

For starters, there was Bonne, which features handmade head candy by Bonsai Fojas. I am personally absolutely in love with the velvet turbans in this collection, but they also have pill box hats, feather clips and other unique headbands inspired by the 1920s and 1930s (think: Great Gatsby) - and some of these pieces are even made with sinamay bases. Love it! Very affordable prices, too.

Next up was Agee Dee whose Cece Smith collection was inspired by some of the most iconic women in hip hop, power and fantasy (we're talking Disney princesses here, honey!).

Erzullie, on the other hand, exemplifies fierce plus-size high fashion, which caters to young female adults. Owned by Aries de Guzman and Berna Cuevas, this line has everything any plus-size woman could possibly need in terms of fashion.

The Aziza Collection by Cebu-based jewelry designer Aziza Mondonedo, features sparkling cocktail rings, earrings and cuffs perfect for those who love having both glitz and glamor in their lives.

Now, what trunk show wouldn't be complete without shoes? Swooooon... Ylla Shoes, designed by Kat Buyoc, provides top quality and stylish footwear that uses local indigenous materials from all over the nation, thus promoting environmental consciousness and cultural heritage preservation. Plus, each beautiful pair is handcrafted by Marikina shoemakers and they are all very affordable to boot!

Of course, the boys weren't forgotten, either. The graphic artist group Seven 107 in conjunction with Kultura Filipino, showcased a tropical feel of shirts that do not just promote Filipino culture, but also provide top-notch surf apparel, equipment and accessories that are completely Filipino-made. They also have women's clothes, by the way.

Aside from all of these amazing entrepreneurs, Empresario also debuted one of the tracks by my dear friend Japs Sergio of Rivermaya during the event (he's coming up with a solo album soon, so watch out for my review on that!)

A silent auction was also held during the event, the proceeds of which went to Filipino artists in need.

To find out more about Empresario and their future events, visit their website here and like them on Facebook here.

All photos were taken from their respective product websites. None of these images belong to me.