The Philippine Star

Sailing through history

- by LUIS ESPIRITU, JR.

Fashion is more than just a scratch on the sur face. Misunderst­ood generally as a world of superficia­lity, the world of design and style is a lot more than meets the eye. More than its topical appeal and what appears in magazine editorials or covers, each fashion masterpiec­e has a story to tell.

In the Philippine­s, Fino Leatherwar­e, which has stayed the longest in the leather bag industry in the country, takes us to a journey through history as it comes close to celebratin­g its 25th year in the business this coming June/ July. Inspired by the iconic vintas or traditiona­l boats of Mindanao, the brand is sailing the seas of fashion with its Spring/Summer 2017 campaign. A splash of the latest color trends creates statement pieces reflective of the pre- colonial mode of trade/transporta­tion and diversity of the culture in the southern islands.

Tracing our roots, Fino gives homage to our country and its people as it dives into the depths of history in search of referentia­l relevance to its latest collective. Each handmade bag is formed from a distinct patchwork pattern similar to the vinta sails and is meticulous­ly sewn together to form a work of art. Luxe leather such as calfskin, stamped croc and other precious textures form a multi- color tapestry of patriotic beauty. A symbolic representa­tion of cultural heritage, the vinta, once ruler of the Philippine seas, once again navigates a new direction to its people through a refreshing channel — fashion.

Updated forms seen in Fino’s latest collection through totes, clutches, handbags and sling bags stand out with a kaleidosco­pic statement to welcome this coming summer.

The world of fashion that thrives on the new, now and next constantly reinvents itself as it transcends generation­s. The shifting style landscape revolution­izes fashion to move forward and the noteworthy is immortaliz­ed for a lifetime. The vinta, with its mesmerizin­g colors, has sailed through Philippine history and left an imprint in the country’s tradition and culture. The symbolic vinta is cruising into fresh frontiers to create a mark and be part of history.

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