Filipinos possess an innate flair for style and fashion, where personal expression blends with our appreciation for quality. Italian craftsmanship, particularly, is seen with high regard and recognized for its elegance and attention to detail. This passion for refined aesthetics arrives in Corso Como 88 in Makati.
From Italy with love
A year ago, a slice of Italian elegance landed in Makati City, and now, Corso Como 88 already marks its anniversary at One Ayala Mall. Corso Como 88 is about pieces built to last, brands with stories, and a shopping experience that feels like a European getaway. Coinciding with the anniversary, Corso Como 88 shifts its focus in bringing in a wide selection of artisanal bag brands and fragrances that showcase exceptional craftsmanship and timeless elegance of Italian design. Taking front and center of these brands are Buti, Gianni Chiarini, Biagini, Roberta Pieri, Gina Monroe, BOIS 1920, and Acqua dell’Elba.
Imelda Menguito Sciandra, President and CEO, said, “As we mark Corso Como 88’s first anniversary in One Ayala, we reflect on a year of bringing the artistry of Italian craftsmanship to the Philippine market.” She added, “This milestone signifies more than just a successful year of operations, it also shows our unwavering commitment and passion for curating a collection that embodies the rich heritage, timeless elegance, and meticulous attention to detail that defines Italian luxury.”
And what a collection it is. Bags take center stage, each brand a masterclass in design and quality.
The Handcrafted Heroes:
- Buti: Think Tuscan tradition. These leather bags are meticulously made in Tuscany, using traditional techniques passed down through generations of skilled artisans. They’re for “the modern shopper who values both beauty and practicality.
- Gianni Chiarini: Clean lines, minimalist design, and eco-conscious materials define this brand. Proudly made in Italy, Gianni Chiarini uses high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship in creating pieces that are both durable and chic. They offer “a wide range of designs and patterns, making them adaptable to every look.
- Biagini: Playful colors meet practical design. Expect traditional Italian artisanal techniques with contemporary design elements. They follow a scrupulous research and selection of fine leathers, with each phase of processing in compliance with EEC regulations regarding CITES or the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.
- Roberta Pieri: A family affair, blending textile and leather expertise. Each bag’s trimmings are made with vegetable-tanned leather, ensuring superior quality and reduced ecological footprint. Their designs feature clean and essential lines, making sure that the beauty of each material is shown without overwhelming each bag with excessive decorations.
- Gina Monroe: Travel companions, designed for life. These bags are meant to become a travel companion designed to be versatile, functional, and extraordinarily beautiful. They are created with high-quality materials and designs that combine classic elegance with contemporary details.
Scents of Italy:
- BOIS 1920: Art in a bottle. This is artisanal perfumery through creativity–from its unique and unforgettable scents down to the artwork of each bottle, label, cap, and box. They’re born from ancient perfume culture that is conceived to last persistently.
- Acqua dell’Elba: The essence of the Mediterranean. Each fragrance evokes a sense of tranquility and relaxation, perfectly capturing the essence of Italian summer. They are inspired by the Italian Mediterranean island Elba, and is best known for incorporating aquatic scenes into its offerings like perfumes and bath products.
Mindful consumption
Corso Como 88 introduces Corso Como Reuse, a vintage corner. Here, authentic hard-to-find, designer preloved bags get a second chance. This initiative encourages the reuse and appreciation of timeless pieces, a nod to sustainability.
Celebrities and key opinion leaders or KOLs such as Janine Gutierrez, Kylie Verzosa, Kris Bernal, Ashley Ortega, Alexander Diaz, Annabelle Rama, Tessa Prieto, and Ruffa Gutierrez joined the celebration.
Sciandra emphasized that her store remains committed to bringing Italian craftsmanship to discerning consumers and provide a fashion haven for those who are starting to invest in luxury, long-lasting pieces.
Find Corso Como 88 at Level 3, One Ayala Mall, Makati City, or Ground Floor, Ayala 30th, Pasig City. Explore their collection online at www.corsocomo88.com and follow their social media for updates.
