I, along with the Divanity team, figured that we ought to let the dust settle after the terrible disaster known as Ondoy, before returning. The state of calamity, though, is still a very, very open wound with so many areas still flooded and many of our people left without homes. That being said, we felt it was important for us to let our readers know that we are constantly doing what we can to cushion the blow for victims by accepting donations. If you would like to donate via Divanity, do get in touch with us at 0917-804-9947 or email divanity_services@yahoo.com We also came to the realization that a lighthearted tone on our site would be what we do best -- create a quick escape from the madness in the world.
Before lightheartedness, I have to say that my heart really goes out to those that are now homeless. Homes, to me, is a very sensitive topic. The reason for this being that my hubby, son and I recently moved into our first independent home together. You would not believe the amount of time, effort and vision (ours is predominantly Modern Zen) we started putting into our residence even before we officially moved in. I actually zoned out on beauty and fashion, and focused solely on interior design, landscaping, and virtually anything related to homes. Despite having only lived in it for just under a month, I can already express the preciousness of having one that is your own. Reflections of yourself and family members, memories, and security are created soon after you settle in your house. Therefore, I can only imagine what it must feel like having your sanctuary taken away from you (whether old or new).
Now, while none of our teams' homes were seriously damaged by Ondoy, rebuilding of homes is on our minds. This is where the aforementioned lightheartedness comes in. For those capable, perhaps we can entertain you with a suggestion on what you can do for your home that will also benefit all our countrymen (apologies, but vanity struggles at being right with sensitivity)? Of course, you should do your best to patronize local designers and suppliers so that you can strengthen your own economy, rather than that of a foreign country.
So who is the homegrown talent that can start off the interior of or spruce up the interior of your homes? None other than one of our favorite fashionistas: Tina Maristela-Ocampo. Best known for bag brand, CELESTINA and recently, her basic black pieces for The Black Shop. Now considering this, we can already trust that whatever she designs has taste and class all the way. CELESTINA dawns the arms of Hollywood and NY Glitterati, while The Black Shop puts a very chic twist on LBDs and other wardrobe staples like shrugs, slacks, tees, etc. It has to be said that her fur capelets are to diiiie for (NOTE: A capelet is sort of a cross between a shrug and a scarf as it ties around your neck but covers your shoulders)!
Mrs. Ocampo's latest conquest is CELESTINA HOME; furniture that is very Filipino in it's architecture, but very contemporary in it's use of materials (pretty much the aesthetic she applies to her bags). I, myself, am a very big fan of mixing old with new whether it be in fashion or in interior design. I am yet to find more samples online, but I will soon scan the pictures of my favorite pieces - her ponyskin stool with wrought iron legs and tiger penshell tables and chairs, that were featured in Metro Society. However, I did find some of the graphic designs done for her brand as well as some of her smaller pieces.
Take a look:
Just to show you which types of pieces you can expect from Celestina Home
Beautiful alternative to storage space (and everyone that knows me, knows that I love designs that make use of prints -- especially camouflage!)
And then of course I had to show you some of my favorite Celestina bags (hehe):
Ah, woven silver. Swooon.
Gorgeous mosaic-type mirror clutch.
Shagreen clutch.
This looks like cobblestones, but I love it!
Alas, the piece de resistance! An obviously Balenciaga-inspired purse. I waaaaant.
So there we have it ladies. Again, in times like these, we must help one another out by means of relief movements as well as...lighthearted banter (my word, I have overused "lighthearted" in this post)!
Till next time, everyone keep safe and always live your life with Divanity!
"Divanity is not just styling, like a diamond is not just a stone"
Yours,
Monique
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