Local designers we love

Vania RomoffWhat's your mood? Whether you want to dress up or just look good, Power Plant Mall has the designer for you!

1. Vania Romoff

Cebu-bred Vania, who is part Russian, has been making waves on the fashion scene with her signature pieces punctuated with charming details and one-of-a-kind fabrics. Her space is simple, straightforward and chic, letting the impeccably designed garments speak for themselves.

We especially love the vibrant pieces: a melon orange netted gown that’s perfect for a garden affair and a bright fuchsia top with a train that looks like a gown but is actually a strapless top! If attainable glamour is your thing, then Vania is your girl.

2. Whisenhunt

Entering the new Whisenhunt shop is, to say the least, a sensory experience. Visually stunning (Velvet chairs! Glass display boxes! Pretty trinkets!) with the scent of eucalyptus permeating your senses, it transports you to a regal boudoir that could very well have belonged to royalty. It’s anything but stuffy, though, as it evokes modern flair in the details, anchoring the fine jewelry beautifully. Don’t be intimidated by the shop’s design—the price range is very democratic, starting at about P4,000 for pre-loved antique pieces to the higher hundred thousands for a tennis necklace.

One special piece stars Keshi pearls from India, delicate balls that look gorgeous set in a ring and pendant made to look as one. Whisenhunt is the place to visit if you want to treat yourself or viefor a special anniversary present (care of your SO, of course).

3. Patty Ang

Patty Ang is a fairly new kid on the fashion block who has built a cult following with her ultrafeminine pieces peppered with details such as ostrich feathers and delicate beadwork. The go-to designer of power women and the ladies who lunch, Patty’s designs are accessible luxury: well-crafted pieces in classic shapes you can wear in a myriad of ways—pair a puff-sleeved velvet bodysuit with jeans or a T-shirt with her signature palazzo pants.

Jumpsuits are also a specialty, as she does her own rendition of an evening look that’s not a long gown or LBD. Patty is a young designer with a bright future ahead of her, and hopefully, more feathers and beaded creations showcased along the way.

4. Tim Tam Ong

If statement baubles are more your thing, Tim Tam Ong is your go-to place. Not for the faint of heart, this designer revels in the grand, gold and embellished. In fact, the bigger, the better! Her designs are meant to be worn as your main accessory, one that says, “I have arrived, so hear me roar.” Exquisitely handcrafted and truly original, Tim Tam is unapologetic and embraces the uniqueness of every woman who wears her pieces. Sport her pieces as the star of a minimalist ensemble or go big with prints that complement them—either way, you’ll be the talk of the party.

Vania Romoff, Whisenhunt, Patty Ang and Tim Tam Ong are at the R2 Level of Power Plant Mall. (Story/Photos by: Jannine Sy)

Vania Romoff