Marking the season, renowned entrepreneur and style purveyor Pinky Tobiano and Rustan’s hosted an afternoon of simple luxury aptly titled the ‘Summer Soiree.’

Text and images courtesy of Visions & Expressions
June 1, 2023

The warm embrace of summer beckons us to celebrate life’s simple joys and to relish the beauty of the everyday. Whether these moments are spent in the comfort of one’s home or in the company of great friends and family, summer is the perfect time to gather and make new memories with loved ones.

Marking the season, renowned entrepreneur and style purveyor Pinky Tobiano, along with Rustan’s, hosted an afternoon of simple luxury, aptly titled the “Summer Soiree.”

Held at Rustan’s Makati, the gracious host welcomed her closest friends and regaled them with fine luxuries from around the world. Champagne, sparkling wine, and prosecco overflowed as Philippine Wine Merchants ensured that the flutes of every guest were topped up continuously.

Guests also had a delicious array of sweet pastries and deli bites by Aperitif. A perfect afternoon perk-me-up of decadent ice cream, artisan chocolates, and coffee were served by Karabella Dairy, Theo & Philo, and SMEG, and Breville, respectively. And as the guests were wined and dined, Markki Stroem, the dashing host, and Marcy David kept the audiences entertained.

But the highlight of the relaxed afternoon was the beautiful, minimalist tablescapes, exquisitely curated by Tobiano herself. Each sophisticated vignette, adorned with pieces from Ralph Lauren, Schott Swiezel Glasses, E.M.E Herdmar, and Oneida Flatwares, was inspired by the personal style of the esteemed socialite.

The first tablescape, marked by a clean and refreshing palette of verdant greens and white lilies, featured dinnerware sets trimmed with gold from Porcel Maris d’or with matching pieces from the brand’s Matcha Collection. Complementing the dinner sets were iridescent flatware from Mood by Christofle.

The second tablescape was a vibrant nod to summer with its eye-catching tangerine and peachy hues, highlighted by fine porcelain art figurines from Spanish luxury brand, Lladro. On an interesting note: the floral motifs of the Vista Alegre Coralina Collection by Oscar de la Renta were inspired by a couture dress for Vogue’s September 2006 issue.

The next spread was a beautiful homage to Philippine craftsmanship with one-of a-kind, rustic pieces by renowned pottery artist, UGU Bigyan, from Tiaong, Quezon. Beside his handcrafted designs were handmade Calfurn products made from local and sustainable materials, which are all available in Rustan’s exclusive Our Very Own line.

High tea becomes the inspiration behind Tobiano’s fourth tablescape, with iconic Versace taking the spotlight. Versace by Rosenthal charms with its pink pastel shades and intricate gilded design, while the Lenox Butterfly Meadows Cottage dinnerware collection lent a touch of modernity with its refined simplicity.

Lastly, stark architectural lines created a strong impression in the fifth tablescape. The Bernardaud Feuille D’Or Collection used gold to perfectly recapture the lightly crumpled texture of an ancient technique: the art of gilding. By mixing and matching pieces, the final look was luxurious yet decidedly contemporary.

This summer, surprise your loved ones with a memorable meal and a beautiful spread, because life needs to be celebrated no matter what season. Find the finest items for your home at Rustan’s.