For Tourism Board of the Philippines' Chief Operating Officer Marga Nograles, promoting our country isn't just a job, it's second nature. The social entrepreneur, who founded local fashion brand Kaayo, always shines the spotlight on stunning yet highly underrated local destinations as well as the indigenous cultures surrounding it. This inclination even chicly spills over to her sartorial choices!
In this episode of Designer Favorites, Marga opens up her closet and shares her top five favorite designer items. Mostly Filipino-made, the Best Dressed List 2022 honoree's sincere admiration for the intricacies and craftsmanship is palpable as she describes each piece as well as the tradition and material behind it. She even has a simple yet ingenious hack in adding a touch of local and a sprinkling of style to her 'fits! Press play to watch.
WATCH: Marga Nograles Reveals Her Designer Favorites
1. Riqueza Cameo Earrings
There's nothing quite like a pair of statement earrings to frame your face. Marga's secret weapon of choice is this elegant cameo pair that is as intricate as it is pretty. Wear it for a chic vintage touch whether you're presenting for work or getting ready for a fun night out.
2. JC Buendia Terno Top
Whoever said that the terno top is a costume piece strictly reserved for everyday occasions clearly has not seen this dainty organdie iteration by Filipiniana master JC Buendia. Topped with petite fleur appliqués, Marga's covetable piece sold out quickly at the last year's Katutubo Pop Up Market—it's hard not to see why.
3. Kaayo Silk Pants
A testament to how Kaayo pieces are meticulously made is Marga's hoarding of these Mikado silk cigarette pants. Not only does it come in the most vibrant colors, it's also quite flattering what with its high-waisted design.
SHOP SIMILAR: Alaia Wide Leg High-waisted Pants with T'boli Hand Beaded Accent, P4950, KAAYO, kaayo.ph
4. Gucci Horsebit 1955
Utilitarian yet fashionable, the Horsebit is truly an iconic Gucci piece that has cemented its place in the best designer bags of all time. That being said, we are absolutely obsessed with this limited edition, colorful crochet version that Marga was able to cop at Gucci Garden. It's a more playful take that feels absolutely fun and whimsical. We can't stop staring!
SHOP SIMILAR: Crochet Horsebit, starts at €1389 (approximately P81,411.37), GUCCI, jolicloset.com
5. Fendi Basket
Made of recyled plastic, Marga reveals that this was her go-to during the pandemic for its ease of use and roomy design. We love how versatile it is as she reveals how she often swaps its straps so she has options for carrying and that it will always match her OOTD—genius! Make sure to check out her favorite strap below!
SHOP SIMILAR: Medium Fendi Basket, $1100, FENDI, fendi.com
BONUS: Kaayo Bag Strap
A simple yet stylish way to incorporate local pieces is by swapping out your bag's strap with one that boasts of traditional Filipino textile. Her colorful T'nalak strap is also reversible for days that you wanna be low-key and monochromatic.
Piper Bag Strap in Silver/White/Green T'nalak, P2950, KAAYO, kaayo.ph
Meet our Best Dressed List 2023 honorees by watching the video below:
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