NOMGARRAGLAES
This social entrepreneur has passion for fashion and a heart for the tribes of Mindanao
Some people posses a certain kind of magnetic charisma that makes everyone lean in. Marga Nograles is one of those: well spoken and very much passionate about her work, she exudes bright energy, even when you first meet her, and especially when she starts talking about her brand Kaayo. Born and raised in Davao, Marga moved to New York as soon as she graduated from the Ateneo de Manila University, working for special projects with the Department of Tourism. After her stint there, she went back to the Philippines and took on work in the beauty, fashion and lifestyle industries, experiences that exposed her to the world of retail and distribution. Despite her hectic schedule and jetsetting ways, Mindanao was always in her mind, a place she would always call home.
Destiny came into play when Marga flew back to live in Davao when her husband Karlo became the congressman of the first district of Davao City. There, the seeds of her dream were further nurtured, planted by her mother who was already a longtime supporter of local arts and crafts. There, she reconnected with Ate Elena, a T’boli woman from Lake Sebu who was an old friend of her mom’s. From their conversations and her continued exposure to the artisan traditions and the needs of the tribes, Marga realized that they needed something more than just exposure: a jacket that the tribe made for her (and which she paid for full price) received numerous compliments from friends and acquaintances, which led to more orders. From here, Kaayo—which means kindness in Bisaya—was born. The business tnot only showcased the wares of the different tribal women from Mindanao, but also supported them, creating a sustainable livelihood. In an era of fast, unoriginal fashion, women craved for something unique, something original (as each tribe had different styles of weaving, embroidery and beading), something that spoke of identify, culture and home.
“They are all like family to me. Seeing them empowered, excited and inspired to create is just the best thing about this job,” Marga shares. What started out as an Instagram store gave way to pop ups in Manila’s bustling fashion centers, and now Kaayo now has two physical stores in SM Aura and Greenbelt 5. Each piece on the racks and shelves looks like it was created with love. From vibrant colors to intricate beading, every item is a statement, easy to pair with basics and with the most standout couture. Wearing a Kaayo piece feels like a punctuation, elevating your everyday look.
The love she receives from her husband and children she easily gives back to Kaayo and everyone involved in this passion project for Mindanao. “There
are many things in Mindanao to fall in love with: The people, the food and its very rich culture. We have so many stories to tell and many age old crafts and techniques to celebrate. I am grateful that Mindanao now is given its place under the spotlight. Today we are being celebrated along with the whole of the Philippines and we are so very thankful.” she says with a grateful smile. This inclusivity and love for the craft is what will take her, Ate Elena and the tribes of Mindanao to the forefront of not only Philippine fashion but also to the world stage.
STYLE TALKS
WHAT IS YOUR EARLIEST FASHION MEMORY? As a child I would imagine dressing up people in church. As people come and go I would imagine how to mix and match their outfits or reinvent what they are wearing.
WHO WAS YOUR FASHION ROLE MODEL WHEN YOU WERE GROWING UP?
I have always admired Tita Ting Ting Cojuangco’s style. She was always effortlessly chic—and also a staunch advocate of Mindanao. Another woman I look up to is my Lola Pat. She always represented simple elegance with clean lines and a perfect fit
WHAT’S YOUR FASHION PHILOSOPHY? Comfortis number one!
WHAT ABOUT FASHION INSPIRES YOU? Everything about it. How it evolves, how it truly is an expression of oneself, how there are no rules really, how it makes you happy, how we are now bringing it up to a new level of love for country and self expression.
ARE YOU A SHOE OR BAG LOVER? OR BOTH? WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE
BRANDS FOR BOTH?’ Definitely both! I love my sneakers from Golden Goose and Y-3 collections. For more formal events I have a favorite Sophia Webster pair as well as pieces from Aquazzura, Louboutin and Neous, but I think what stands out are my Stuart Weitzman pairs that have lasted me for years! For bags, I am now loving my Chanel wallet on chain. I also love Celine and Loewe.
DO YOU ALSO LOVE TO ACCESSORIZE? WHICH DESIGNERS/BRANDS DO YOU GO TO FOR THAT STATEMENT ACCESSORY? Not so much but for investment pieces, I go to WH Jewels by Aileen Uy and Nicole Whisenhunt.
WHO ARE YOUR FAVORITE DESIGNERS, BOTH LOCAL AND INTERNATIONAL? Iam such a loyal customer. For local, I go only to Maureen Disini, and if I had to choose just one designer to invest in—and since
“I
AM HAPPY THAT MANY ARE NOW WEARING LOCAL AND BUYING WITH A PROPOSE. THIS FIGHT FOR SUSTAINABILITY IS SOMETHING WE CAN TRULY WIN IF WE ALL COME TOGETHER TO SUPPORT WHAT IS TRULY OURS”
Maureen is retiring soon—it would be my dear Inno Sotto. I also love my Uncle Bobby Castillo who has made my SONA gowns and all my gowns since 10 years ago.
WHAT IS YOUR OPINION ON TODAY’S FASHION? I am happy that many are now wearing local and buying with a purpose. This fight for sustainability is something we can truly win if we all come together to support what is truly ours. Together we are stronger.
INNER REFLECTIONS
WHAT MAKES YOU SMILE? The smallest things make me smile. I live with a grateful heart because I have been so blessed. So many of my dreams have come true—even dreams that I never dared to dream. Seeing my kids happy, Karlo coming home early for dinner, coffee, a good meal, wine nights with my friends, the perfect fitting samples, time with my family, travels, the beach, the slopes. There is beauty in everything.
WHAT IS THE MOST DEFINING MOMENT OF YOUR LIFE THUS FA R ? I think this will be marrying my husband Karlo and creating a family with him.
WHAT DO YOU THINK IS THE SECRET TO A HAPPY LIFE? Living with a grateful heart.
WHAT IS NEXT FOR MARGA
NO GR A LES? I will continue to do what I can for Mindanao, I will serve my husband, be best friends with my children and the rest is up to God. I take it one blessed day at a time.