I LOVE PINOY LAB

Probably the most prominent fashion symbol these days is the Philippine map. Thanks to Rhett Eala, the 7,100 islands of our country have made appearances on the chests (and arms, and hips and what have you) of many people--Filipinos AND non-Filipinos alike.

If you find the prices of C2 too steep ("default" price starts at P679.75), and find the knock offs in Greenhills and every tiange there is unacceptable, you may want to strike a middleground with Pinoy Lab.

Ben Chan does it again with this newest line of the tried and tested Bench formula. Most of the tees have a pop art-slash-vintage-y feel. Those that caught my fancy were, of course, the I am Ninoy/I am Cory shirts, the graphic tees with a promising voters line (can't wear them though because I ain't registered--BOO!!!), plus some other tees that feature Pinoy expressions and cultural elements (ala Team Manila) that best describe who we are as a people.

On my first Pinoy Lab trip, I of course, did not exit empty-handed. Since the Haligilet needed a black tee for his upcoming Christmas presentation, I bought this in honor of the great man whom our little boy was named after...I love the way the store is styled ala-urban outfitters with beechwood shelves, buckets and floors. Aside from the interesting line of clothing (sorry though, no equestrian apparel here) the outlet also boasts of trinkets and gift packs which could make as great Christmas presents.

I can't wait for my next visit.