Chic is in the details
Parisian chic has always been its own unique fashion genre, somehow infusing neutrals and basics with a certain je ne sais quoi that elevates the boring to the bougie. Sandro Paris’ debut at Greenbelt 5, Makati City brings to the Manila fashion scene its own brand of effortless elegance with pieces that exemplify French sensibilities: blinged out with hints of girlishness, yet managing to maintain an air of utter insouciance and sophistication.
But the pret-a-porter label—founded in 1984 by Evelyne Chetrite, who also serves as its artistic director—doesn’t just offer high-quality, ubiquitous, and versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to fit most occasions. Sandro’s allure is in the details.
Crisp, straightforward basics are treated to a sprinkling of tastefully selected and arranged adornments that make the garments all the more memorable. Embellishments that could easily tip the balance to twee or tacky give Sandro’s impeccably made pieces that extra pizzazz.
Minuscule rhinestones lining narrow candy stripes, for example, add a bit of zest to breezy button-downs. Pearl studs dotting a pair of wide-leg jeans lend a twinkling coquetry to a relaxed vibe. Well-placed floral cutaways embroidered with sparkles and beads add a striking point of interest to an otherwise simple silhouette. Even a casual knitted black sleeveless crop top becomes the nonpareil of refinement with the quick addition of gold wave trim.
Chetrite’s sense of casual elegance also shines in blending masculine and feminine elements, seen particularly in her design decisions for pieces such as Sandro’s boxy blazers and oversized denim jackets with bejeweled armhole seams.
Whimsy
And while the brand does not shy away from pretty colors, the boutique dedicates one side to its timeless black and white collection with racks lined with polished pieces made all the more charming by exquisite touches of whimsy.
The shop likewise highlights Sandro’s capsule tribute to celebrated French-American contemporary artist Louise Bourgeois, featuring a reinterpretation of her famed spirals, and a glimpse of Sandro Homme, the brand’s menswear counterpart, by Chetrite’s son Ilan.
“This opening is more than just a store launch. It’s about bringing a slice of Parisian elegance and style to Filipino consumers who appreciate refined fashion,” said SSI Group CEO and president Anton Huang in a statement, expressing his confidence in the brand’s ability to resonate with Manila’s “sophisticated and fashion-conscious community.”
With Manila being well-known for its unique mix of contrasts and cultural references, Chetrite added that since Sandro is “all about contrast and mix of influence,” it felt like an obvious place to launch the French fashion brand.
“We’re excited to connect with the new generation of Filipino consumers—passionate, curious, and with a sharp eye for quality—who share our love for authenticity and timeless fashion with a modern edge,” added Chetrite, describing the opening of Sandro’s first boutique in the Philippines as “a truly special moment.”
