Cover Camille Co (Photo: Joseph Pascual | Location: Casa Bella)

Four amazing and stylish women talk to us about why Louis Vuitton’s OnTheGo bag suits their dynamic lifestyles even in these challenging times

Today’s women are extraordinary. They have transcended and challenged traditional perceptions of femininity and are leading the way in various sectors of modern society. They exude strength, grace, wisdom and resilience—always on the go and rising to the challenges of these unusual times.

For women of such high calibre, the designers and craftsmen at Louis Vuitton created the OnTheGo tote bag, the perfect carry-all for the woman who is, well, on the go.

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We spoke to four such women who are at the top of their respective fields to see how they have made the best use of their time during this pandemic, how they have adapted to the way life has changed, what continues to drive them in the face of the difficulties that have come their way.

Read more: Tatler Cover Story With Camille Co 

Marga Nograles

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The vibrant woman behind Kaayo Modern Mindanao has spent a great deal of time championing the indigenous weavers of her homeland through a unique social enterprise that incorporates traditional patterns into modern clothing to create a truly unique Filipino aesthetic. One would think that the pandemic would have cramped her style, but Nograles found herself making the best of her new situation.

“My lifestyle shifted from running all over the place to building a sustainable business at home, setting up online, training our weavers and beaders via Zoom, and going out only when necessary,” she says, recalling the flurry of activity she experienced at the start of the pandemic. “Before the pandemic, I was all over the place running from one meeting to another, planning shows, shoots, new collections, dinners and trips. [At] one point, I was actually wondering if I could keep up with my crazy calendar.”

Regardless of the shift from on-site to online that she has taken, Nograles says her LV OnTheGo remains her constant companion. “I love big bags, even at home!” she declares enthusiastically. “[And Louis Vuitton is a classic and the OnTheGo is a timeless piece I can use over and over. My big bag goes everywhere with me [both at home] and on my out-of-town trips. It’s a must-have; it’s a ‘throw in your mask, alcohol and face shield’ kind of bag.” 

Related: Before Bed With Marga Nograles - Learn About Her Skincare Secrets

Sofia Andres

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Actress Sofia Andres is the type of person who knows and understands her priorities. “[For me, a woman on the go] knows what to put first and how to make the most of that,” she explains. “She is on top of everything and is always ready when she is needed by the people she loves.”

Indeed, for one so young, a strong ethic grounded in a keen sense of responsibility characterises Andres’ approach to life and her career. As she puts it, “I make sure that I stay productive and tick off something on my priority list every day. Small accomplishments can lead to big successes.”

But Andres is also willing to learn from and adapt to changing circumstances. The pandemic has made her rethink her habits and distinguish between needs and wants. “[In terms of designer brands,] I don’t buy as much as I used to,” she says. “I’ve become wiser with regard to my spending.”

In doing so, she has a deeper appreciation now for Louis Vuitton, a brand long known for excellence in its craftsmanship and for products that are in keeping with its core market’s lifestyle. “It’s a classic,” she says of her LV OnTheGo tote. “It’s sophisticated and when you pair that with functionality, it’s a relaxed, easy-going piece that goes perfectly with my style as well as my new life as a mum.”

See also: Tatler’s Haute List: Logomania Is Back and Better Than Ever

Camille Co

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Tatler Asia

A “can-do” attitude is what drives style influencer Camille Co. “My passion for my work pushes me to keep going and to do better despite the circumstances,” she says. Indeed, up until recently, Co prided herself on being able to strike a balance between her work and personal life, travelling from one destination to another and trying out new experiences.

So, when the pandemic hit, she found herself staring full into the face of some necessary changes—the most life-changing of which was the birth of her first child, daughter Sienna Elea, last year. “It was a rollercoaster of emotions,” she admits. “My life used to be so fast-paced. The pandemic has pushed me to learn to slow down and to stay put.”

A woman as driven as Co needs a bag that suits her dynamic way of life, and that is why the OnTheGo is her favourite tote. She loves the fact that Louis Vuitton has also adapted its styles to suit the needs of the modern woman. “I love that Louis Vuitton is always evolving, [that’s what] makes it an exciting brand to follow,” she says. “The first time the OnTheGo bag was released, I immediately fell in love with it.”

Related: Home Tour: Step Into Camille Co's Scandinavian Inspired Abode

Rosenthal Tee

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“My industry requires [that I get] up close and personal with my clients,” she explains. “[A] major adjustment that I had to consider was to become more conscious about my surroundings. I had to instil in my staff and myself the need to practice strict hygiene guidelines to ensure the safety of everyone we interact with.”

It was a difficult adjustment to make, but Tee is grateful that this has not stopped clients from seeking her out to create amazing pieces of wearable art. Indeed, keeping busy has enabled her team to support their families, which makes them feel secure and appreciated. Clients are, likewise, very appreciative.

Designers work with their hands, so for this busy lady Tee prefers her hands, free. “I absolutely love the OnThego!” she enthuses. “For me, the killer detail is the shoulder strap so I can keep my hands free! It’s a no-fuss style that enables me to move around with all my important things comfortably tucked into the bag.”

See more: 7 Women That Understood The Met Gala Theme

Credits

Photography  

Joseph Pascual

Photographer's Assistant  

Joey Alvero

Styling  

Monique Madsen

Make-Up  

Ria Aquino & Johnson Estrella

Hair  

Patty Inojales & Francis Guinto

Producer  

Isabel Martel Francisco

Location  

Casa Bella

Topics