You cannot miss Tan Arellano-Vitug’s creations. Her one-of-a-kind accessories under the brand House of Heirloom are unapologetically bold but understated, visually arresting yet classic and very, very limited.
“It was quite a long journey getting to where I am now as a designer,” shares Tan. “I studied nursing, passed both the Philippines and US board exams but did not pursue that as a career. Then I joined the corporate world for a few years but something was amiss. That’s when I decided to try my hand at making fashion accessories. With a former officemate, I put up Andie and Chelsea. The brand carried our daughters’ names which some say is good for business. Then I decided to go solo and put up Spotted – which was a short-lived venture. House of Heirloom is the final rebirth of my label.”
scarf necklace made from jersey fabric.
Inspired Blueprints
Tan reveals that she finds inspiration in anything and everything. The artist in her sees the possibilities in the most mundane things. “Once, I was in the hardware store and I saw these little wooden hoops. Immediately, I knew that I could make bracelets and pendants from those. I also find inspiration from places I’ve visited and from books and magazines I’ve read. The process certainly cannot be hurried. I use mood boards to concretize my thoughts, make rough sketches and translate my drawings to mock-ups. Sometimes, it works. Other times, it doesn’t. My first customer is myself. When I create something, I always ask myself – Is this something I would buy and wear?”
Her House, Her Rules
Looking at the House of Heirloom Instagram account where the designer posts her wares, it’s noticeable that the she is a stickler to her design aesthetics. “I love my clients. Some have been ordering from me for years already. Once in a while though, I would get requests that I have to politely decline – like that time when a woman asked if I could make a pink and purple necklace. In order to keep my brand’s identity, I have to stay true to my look.”
The BQP’s Top Picks
I really can’t hide my excitement about this brand! My first purchase was a necklace made of multiple layers of wine-colored resin chains. Every time I wear it, people would always compliment me and ask where I bought it. I like the fact that a singular piece of accessory not only enhances my outfit but completes it as well. In addition, I appreciate that everything is 100 percent handmade. The uniformly cut cured leather fringes, the tassels, the pompoms – all of them are painstakingly done by hand. The best part is that Tan’s price range is very reasonable. Truly, there’s nothing not to love about this label! Even the snooty sounding aristocratic Spanish names that she christens her masterpieces with make her designs more appealing and desirable.
To purchase the latest heirloom collections, visit House of Heirloom on Facebook and Instagram or call 0917-807-8747.
With a pocketful of glitter,
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