Welcoming Christmas with flair
Steven Tan’s wish, he told Lifestyle during the Christmas tree-lighting ceremony, “Sinag at Saya,” at SM Aura last week, is for Filipino fashion to take global center stage.
“It’s about time,” he said. “We really have very good, talented young designers. It’s really about time for them to shine.”
Tan, along with Taguig Mayor Lani Cayetano, SM Supermalls executive vice president for marketing Joaquin San Agustin, and SM Supermalls assistant vice president for tenant marketing and special events Carinna Sy opened a giant gift box, unleashing a drone that “lit up” the giant Christmas tree at the mall’s upper ground atrium with high-tech flair and flourish.
According to Tan, the lighting of the 33-foot tree, beautifully decorated with locally crafted holiday ornaments made with sustainable indigenous materials to represent weavers of binakul from La Paz in Abra and inabel from La Union, is a symbol of reflection, joy, hope and community spirit.
“As we light this tree,” said Tan, “let it remind us of our commitment to preserve our cultural legacy and uplift our artisans and MSMEs (micro, small and medium enterprises).
“There’s so much talent across the country. This Christmas, we really want to put the Filipino artisans and designers on a pedestal that they truly deserve,” he added.
Following the lighting event was a showcase of such talents in celebration of culture, creativity, and craftsmanship. Headlined by Carl Jan Cruz’s edgy, cool Pinoy-flavored style, the show also highlighted pieces from homegrown retail brands currently taking residence at SM Aura: sweet and feminine looks from Rhett Eala, Hannah Kong, and Plains & Prints; Vin Orias, Kultura and Jor-El Espina for funky Filipino wear; chic staples from K & Company and Yoya; charming local accessories from Arnel Papa, Jewelmer, Zarah Juan and Frankie General Store. INQ
