Getting away in style: Filipino brands for your ‘vacay look’

With the vaccination rollout already underway and tourism slowly opening up, this might be a good time for a much-needed vacation—still with masks on, of course. And hey, if you’re going to go out, might as well go out in style.

While you’re at it, why not support small and local businesses, too? Check out these local brands perfect for your wardrobe this season and beyond.

Cosas Ceb (@cosasceb)

These days, a no-fuss tote is probably the best bag to take anywhere. It’s spacious, easy to wash and disinfect, and let’s be honest, you can just easily dump all your stuff in there. Cosas Ceb makes totes in many different designs and sizes, all produced locally with high-quality canvas. For something unique, check out the Gillian, which is a circular tote bag with a snap button and exterior pocket.

Uri.manila (@uri.manila)

The modern menswear brand and social enterprise is all about bringing design innovation and sustainability together. Its summer collection interprets the basic black tank in three different ways with strategically placed cutouts. Sando #1 has a hole in the back for ventilation, #2 features a double-strap, while #3 flaunts a peek-a-boo detail right in the middle of the chest.

Kaftan Klub (@kaftanklub)

Titled “Night and Day,” Kaftan Klub’s latest drop is a collection of chic co-ords in relaxed silhouettes and airy fabrics, ideal for lounging at home, running errands in the city or frolicking in the sand. This capsule was designed and produced solely by the brand. The olive green linen vest and trousers combo and the pigeon blue set are just some of the standout looks from Kaftan Klub’s ninth release.

Carl Jan Cruz (@carljancruz)

The brand’s “Pambahay” line is a contemporary spin on the Filipino loungewear aesthetic, featuring fun iterations of house clothes such as the Sando, Dastee and Boxers. Made with CJC’s signature jersey pique fabric, these pieces are light and breathable. Don’t be mistaken though, they aren’t just meant to be worn at home. As quipped in the website, “Who says your pambahay can’t be pang-lakwatsa?”

Guhit (@guhit.ph)

Keep your head cool while exploring the great outdoors with Guhit’s bucket hat. Proudly produced in Cebu, the cotton twill Guhit Hat comes in several designs featuring minimalist embroidered motifs and is made in a range of colors, from neutrals such as black and white to brights like yellow and blue.