Can I Tell You…about Aya Abesamis. We started following each other on Instagram last year but we recently finally met in person. I knew of Aya because her parents were fashion models and contemporaries of my sisters back in the Philippines in the 1980s.

Can I tell you…gold bags are a great choice for summer as they complement a wide range of colors. Whether your’e wearing bright, white or neutrals, a gold bag adds a touch of elegance and sophistication without being overpowering. The Fernanda frame clutch can elevate a simple outfit and give it that extra oomph. The bag is handwoven in strips of platinum, rose gold and gold leather then finished with a structured covered frame. It also comes with a braided leather shoulder strap so you can wear it as a crossbody bag.

Can I Tell You…I have known Clair Concepcion-Barberis since the late 80s when I started my fashion brand in Manila. She and her best friends were rebellious teenagers who dared to defy the rules of their strict Catholic school to model for me. We had so much fun going against the status quo in those days. We kept in touch after I moved to New York and whenever I was in Manila, I would always make time to see her and the gang for a proper catch-up.