A spontaneous stop to shop ensued a few days ago when I dragged a friend of mine to SOMA Stores – a collective of well-curated independent brands tucked all the way in Pasong Tamo. Far, I know, and honestly not the easiest to get to, we had to take multiple u-turns and Waze queries. The first miss wasn’t my fault but the next one most definitely was. Navigation isn’t necessarily my forte.
The brands in the line up keep getting better and for more shopping choices – quality, that is – I am forever grateful. I’ve come across many a local brand with no regard for quality whatsoever with terrible stitching, bad seams, uneven hemming and more horrors to anybody particular about clothes. One of my favorite brands that I had to visit was Neon Island. I’ve raved about them multiple times already (including the interview with the owners here) and make sure to pack at least one item from them to any beach trip. They’re coming out with the summer collection soon and, thanks to Instagram, I already saw a peek of the prints and bikinis I need to have on a primal level. Of course, that doesn’t mean that the older collections are irrelevant. This look is from their latest release – one infused with florals, checks, pastels and patent leather skirts also in cotton candy hues. I kind of liked how I matched their floor. I’ve never really worn culottes before (except that same morning for a reason I have yet to share) but I liked how these fit. And racerback crops have come full circle and I’m totally amenable to their comeback. Of course there were more amazing pieces to be found in their cute little spot in SOMA not limited to clothes. See those cute clutches behind me of kiwis, papayas and pineapples? Such cute accents to spruce up any outfit.
If you’re up for the drive, check out Neon Island at SOMA. You really should though at some point, it’s pretty kick-ass with all the art installations. Otherwise, shop in the comforts of your own laptops and check out http://neonislandclothing.com. So worth it.
Even if you don’t find floors to match.
Top and culottes, NEON ISLAND | Sunglass, SUNNIES STUDIOS
