In a town where lifestyle pop-ups are a dime a dozen, a forthcoming trunk show should stand out for its rare selection. The Gracious Lady, a one-of-a-kind exclusive event at Vetted 126, Milelong Arcade on November 23 and 24, gathers elegant, timeless possessions—not common finds.
Behind the concept of The Gracious Lady is writer and book author Tonette Martel, but, as she points out to TheDiarist.ph, “this concept really represents any woman with a discerning eye for elegance and timeless style. She seeks out clothing and accessories that are both classic and sophisticated, choosing pieces that reflect her appreciation for quality and refined taste.”
Therefore, at the onset, the not-so-public event already draws your curiosity—added to the fact that it will be held in the new venue in Metro Manila, Vetted 126, which, this early, is getting known for distinctive art exhibits of highly defined curatorship by foremost interior designer Jonathan Matti.
Issey Miyake tunic top (left), Issey Miyake top paired with Lotus Arts de Vivre silk bag
The Gracious Lady Trunk Show will have vintage clothing and accessories—from the classic to the avante-garde—with pieces by fashion icons like Issey Miyake, Missoni, Jil Sander, Aspesi, Rick Owens, Yohji Yamamoto, Jean Paul Gaultier, Max Mara, and Shamask at Bergdorf Goodman.
There will be luxurious scarves, from cashmere to silk, from Fendi, Giorgio Armani, Dries Van Noten, Etro, Amanda Wakeley. There will be exquisite hand-embroidered shawls from India.
Necklace designed by Roseanne de Pampelone handcrafted by artisans from the Himalayan region
Among the eye-catching finds are statement necklaces from Chanel, Marni, Donna Karan, Stephen Dweck for Bergdorf Goodman.
There will also be handcrafted items from artisans in Thailand and the Himalayas.
There will be bags from Chanel, Prada, Lanvin, Celine, Stella McCartney, Selleria by Fendi, Lanvin, Nina Ricci, Renaud Pellegrino and Judith Lieber. Among the unique finds are Lotus of Thailand, Devi Kroell and Simone Camille.
Asked by TheDiarist.ph how she came by these items, Tonette said, “I collected these items over the years. I would store them whenever I felt I wouldn’t use them as much anymore. Recently, as I was organizing my belongings, I noticed I had built up quite a collection. There are some pieces I decided to keep, while others I plan to sell in my upcoming trunk show. That’s the beauty of choosing classic, elegant pieces—they stand the test of time, allowing you to wear them with confidence.”
She has basis for her selection. “I always choose items that are classic, fun, versatile, and functional, so they transition easily from day to evening. I particularly like Japanese designers, such as Issey Miyake, Yohji Yamamoto, Sacai, and Comme des Garçons. I also appreciate pieces by Missoni, Jil Sander, Armani, Balenciaga, and Eskandar, and I like Prada and Marni for footwear, bags, and accessories.”
How about her personal preferences? “I like informal clothes with a touch of elegance and whimsy. Wearing any outfit is an expression of who you are and should suit the occasion. I prefer neutrals, but I also enjoy patterns and colors in the clothes I choose to wear.”
The two-day exclusive event is a benefit for the programs of Helping Women and Others Foundation in support of breast cancer awareness, its early detection, and improved access to treatment, allowing those affected by breast cancer to live full and hopeful lives. A portion of the proceeds will go to the Foundation.
Tonette Martel Elegant pieces with touch of whimsy
The Gracious Lady Trunk Show runs at Vetted 126, Milelong Arcade, Amorsolo st., Makati, Nov. 23 and 24, 2024, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
