Eco-Ethical Elegance Takes Centerstage at RIIR by ARANAZ Holiday Collection 2012 Launch

 Style icons and fashion enthusiasts converged at the North Court of Rockwell Center’s Power Plant Mall in Makati City for the Rags2Riches (RIIR) by ARANAZ Holiday Collection 2012. Entitled “Nudos,” the Spanish translation for “knots,” the second collaboration of RIIR and ARANAZ exudes boldness and enduring elegance. Created by one of the most respected and in-demand homegrown designers today, Amina Aranaz-Alunan has raised the fashion ante by making eco-ethical style an in-trend fashion statement.

“The Nudos collection is handwoven by our Rags2Riches Cooperative in Payatas and assembled by our in-house workshop.  All knots for this collection, which are new artisan techniques introduced by Amina specifically for these bags and accessories, were handmade in our in-house workshop by our highly skilled, full-time artisans.  Our hope is that with the success of this collection, these beautiful fashion accessories and new artisan skills can be extended to all Rags2Riches communities,” said Reese Fernandez, president for Rags2Riches.

RIIR artisans are known for their weaving skills primarily using upcycled scrap fabric. The versatility of the fabric lends itself nicely to different textures and techniques. For the RIIR by ARANAZ collection, designer Amina Aranaz-Alunan was inspired to play around with various kinds of knots, a new technique which introduced a different texture to the stylish pieces.

“I had a book about making knots and decided to play around with the scrap fabrics,” shared Alunan.

RIIR’s collections have captured the attention of the fashion world since it launched eco-ethical style in the Philippines in 2007. It has gained a steady following among fashion cliques in Manila, Asia and Europe, with illustrious personalities being seen donning an ensemble with an RIIR piece.

RIIR and ARANAZ sets the trend for bags and accessories

A visually stimulating art installation was the backdrop for the latest line of must-have bags and accessories from RIIR and ARANAZ. Guests also marveled at the haute couture gowns provided by Tina Daniac, while music by internationally- acclaimed violinist Coke Bolipata and pianist Jourdann Petalver created the ambient mood during the exclusive black and gold affair.

Noteworthy about the RIIR and ARANAZ holiday collaboration are the sumptuous colors and intricate weaving techniques that were highlighted in all the accessories. The adherence to eco-ethical style makes every RIIR accessory one-of-a-kind. Stand-out pieces in the RIIR by ARANAZ Nudos line include the “Amara,” a braided clutch with wooden frame accent, removable antique chain strap and magnetic closure; “Lazada,” a molded clutch in abaca with braided trim detail and knotted cotton flap with magnetic closure; “Sobre,” an envelope clutch in x-small basket weave, jute flap and knotted braided accent with interior pocket; and “Cartera,” a purse in knitted cotton x-small basket weave, knotted ball puller and cotton lining with interior pocket. “Pulsera,” a cuff bracelet with knotted braid accent and vachetta leather with golden snap closure, simply commands attention. “Lazo,” a necklace with three cotton knot pendants, braided cotton strap with braided string, antique chain and suede string accents, is reminiscent of vintage sophistication. “Cuello,” a knotted cotton braid choker with braided string, antique chain and suede string strap, transcends the unique balance of restraint and innovation.

“RIIR by Aranaz Nudos Holiday Collection is an audacious attempt to bring fashion forward. Each stylish piece is unique and exquisite. It speaks to the chic, independent, elegant and empowered women of today who embody the eco-ethical lifestyle,” said Fernandez.

RIIR by ARANAZ Nudos Holiday Collection was presented by RCBC Diamond MasterCard, Visual Mannequin Solution (VMS) and Power Plant Mall.

About Rags2Riches, Inc. (R2R)

R2R is a for-profit social enterprise based in Manila, Philippines, creating eco-ethical fashion and home accessories out of upcycled scap cloth, indigenous, and organic materials by working with artisans from community-based enterprises across the country. To know more about RIIR’s products and social statement, log on to www.rags2riches.ph.

About the Designer:

Amina Aranaz- Alunan is a Filipino bag designer and School of Fashion and the Arts (SoFA) co-founder. She graduated Cum Laude from Instituto Marangoni in Milan and returned to Manila to build the family bag brand, Aranaz. She was awarded by Philippine Daily Inquirer’s Super as the designer of the Year for 2006 and was nominated in the Accessories Designer of the Year category at the Mega Fashion Awards 2007. She is also a member of the Fashion and Design Council of the Philippines (FDCP). Known for her fralir for fashion, she is also often cited as one of Manila’s style icons. Amina Aranaz-Alunan and her mother Becky Aranaz, greatly contributed to Rags2Riches’ growth as a more sustainable social business enterprise. Amina also supported the Rags2Riches women with skills training through her School of Fashion and the Arts, or SOFA Manila.