R2R: Weaving style and sustainability
DEAR RISSA,
I’ve been more conscious about how I shop. I now opt for products that are environmentally sound. Can you recommend fashion brands that also have a purpose and give back? MICHELLE
I applaud you for making a decision to surround yourself with things that matter. Now that the world is more interconnected, the onset of social media and the Internet has made shoppers more than ever aware of their choices. And they’re making very intelligent ones, too. Cruelty-free, clean & green, sustainable, and socially responsible are just some of the new musts, especially for the millennials who embrace everything with meaning and purpose.
The shoe brand TOMS has always been known to give back; every pair you buy will help a person in need. Locally, Messy Bessy’s home and personal care products are not just natural and non-toxic, every purchase of its products contributes to the livelihood and education of at-risk young adults in the community.
I particularly love the Filipino brand R2R or Rags2Riches, Inc. (stores located at Glorietta 1, Power Plant Mall, Podium, TriNoma, UP Town Center, Ayala Center Cebu, and shop online at rags2riches.ph). The design house focuses on handwoven bags which upcycle overtsocked cloth and indigenous fabrics. More than that, they partner with local artisans across the country to empower them as dignified artisans, and help weave a better future for their families and communities. R2R is proof that style and sustainability can co-exist. Each piece created is not just a fashion statement but also a social statement.
One of my favorite styles is the iconic R2R Bulso bag — soft, very roomy, and practical for work and school. Way before the cross body bag became a big trend, R2R already offered their mini bulso and bucket bags, which come with long straps. They’re perfect because they store all your essentials but keep your hands free while on the go. I love how each fashion purchase can go a long way — their bags look current, yet at the same time can last you many seasons after. Above all, each time you carry one, it shares a story and is a banner for Filipino design, sustainability, and craftsmanship.
RISSA
THE SKINNY ON SKINCARE DEAR LUCY,
My skin is breaking out. The only thing I did differently was to stop using moisturizer totally and start using a charcoal mask that is supposed to draw out impurities. I have been using it every day because I like how squeaky clean it makes my face feel. But why is it making me break out? Could that be the culprit? MILLEN
I don’t think so, but just to be sure, I asked my dermatologist friend. This is what I gathered from our conversation: First, you cannot overdo even a good thing. Moderation is key, yes, even when it comes to skincare. You have to use a product properly. I have had a similar experience. My skin can be oily at times and in an effort to address that, I skip certain steps in my skincare regimen, which results in breakouts! I always wondered why and your email actually led to an answer. Clay masks have their benefits but when you use them too often, skin becomes too dry. When that happens, our sebaceous glands know it and go overboard in producing sebum, too much of it actually, that it leads to breakouts.
The solution? Don’t skip a step, but use the right products. Use a clay mask only once or twice a week and don’t leave it on too long. And you must still moisturize, to keep your skin balanced. After cleansing, use a toner. A toning mist is beneficial because toners are not meant to dry on the skin, they are meant to prepare your skin for the next step, which is to moisturize. So, while skin is still moist/damp, gently work your trusted moisturizer into your skin, let sit until it is properly absorbed, then you can proceed with putting on your makeup during the day, or layering additional creams you may have in your regimen at night. Also, while your skin is breaking out now, you may need to switch to a cleanser that has antibacterial and healing properties. LUCY
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Send e-mail to Lucy Torres-Gomez at ltg@ pldtdsl.com. E-mail Rissa Trillo at stylesos_ rissa@yahoo.com or follow her on Twitter @ RissaMananquil.