We went to ArteFino and these are the pieces we’d bring home

From a bag that instantly upgrades a plain outfit to sneakers made with pineapple fibre, here are the finds we kept thinking about after ArteFino: Isang Dekada.

ArteFino: Isang Dekada happened from July 30 to August 2 at Power Plant Mall, and yes, it was the kind of fair where you walked in “just to look” and quickly began doing mental math.

For its 10th year, ArteFino gathered more than 100 Filipino brands, makers, and designers in one very tempting place. There were woven bags, colorful crochet pieces, good shoes, home finds, and enough beautiful things to make you rethink your online cart.

Here are the pieces we’d happily bring home.

Gustoko is for anyone who believes a good bag can carry an entire outfit. Designed in Lisbon and handcrafted in Manila, its pieces bring together Filipino natural fibres like buntal, ticog, and T’nalak with polished details such as bamboo clasps and hand embroidery.

Gustoko

The bags have that lovely “where did you get that?” quality. They are refined but not boring, and they work whether you are wearing a linen dress to lunch or your usual jeans-and-shirt ensemble. This is the one to save up for, then use everywhere. Browse Gustoko’s bags here.

LAKAT

LAKAT Sustainables makes sneakers for people who want to make better choices but still want their shoes to look good with everything. Its locally crafted pairs use pineapple-blend fabric, natural rubber soles, and a circular design approach that makes use of material scraps.

They are easy, clean, and refreshingly not trying too hard. We would pick a low-cut neutral pair for busy Saturdays, airport days, and every outfit that needs a little grounding. LAKAT’s current styles start at ₱4,670.

Sangumay

Sangumay’s Brilyante clutch from the Enchang Fringe collection is not a wallflower. The handwoven bag is framed with raffia fringe, making it feel like the kind of accessory that can rescue a simple black dress from looking too safe.

Sangumay takes its name from a native orchid and draws from memories of sampaguita garlands, family rituals, and the women artisans who turn raffia into objects worth keeping. It is a bag with a backstory, which is much more fun than a bag without one.

Ditta Sandico

Ditta Sandico’s piña tops and woven Filipiniana pieces make a strong case for bringing heritage textiles into your regular wardrobe. No need to wait for a formal event, a wedding, or a dress code.

The trick is to keep the styling relaxed. Wear a piña top with loose trousers or jeans, add simple jewellery, and let the fabric do the talking. It is classic Filipino dressing, just without the pressure to look like you are on your way to a big party.

The Olive Tree PH

The Olive Tree PH is proof that a good table can make even takeout feel like an occasion. Its linen napkins are locally made and come with the kind of prints that make you want to set the table properly, even if your guests are just two friends and a bottle of wine.

The brand’s recent collaboration with Allôra brings in bright, Italian-summer-inspired prints for placemats and napkins. It is charming, a little cheeky, and far more exciting than the paper towels currently sitting on most dining tables.

Feathers, fringes, and snakes

Angkan

Angkan’s embroidered denim jackets are the kind of pieces you put on when your outfit feels fine but needs a little more life. The embroidery gives a familiar wardrobe staple texture, color, and actual character.

Angkan works with artisans across the Philippines, including T’boli embroiderers, to create limited-edition pieces with a more thoughtful approach to fashion. Throw one over a tank top and trousers, a slip dress, or a shirt you have worn too many times. It will do the rest.

Aishe

Aishe comes from Liliw, Laguna, a town known for making very good shoes. The brand uses local materials such as abaca, canvas, and Yakan cloth in fully Filipino-made styles, including espadrilles, slip-ons, and crochet mules.

We would go for an easy pair of espadrilles, the kind you can wear for a whole day out without immediately regretting your outfit choices. Cute, practical, locally made. A rare and beautiful three-way win.