The Art of “Arte”
Personal Elegance and Taste
From Heart Evangelista’s personalized Hermès bag to students matching their Havaianas with their daily rhythms, arte is a celebration of intentional style and meaningful rituals.
In the Philippines, the word “arte” (pronounced AR-tay) often gets a bad rap. The term arte is borrowed from the Spanish word for “art.” While in Spanish it retains its original meaning of creative skill or craftsmanship, Filipino slang uses it to call out someone as dramatic, high-maintenance, or even pretentious. But if you look closer, there’s a side of arte that’s truly commendable — a cultivated artfulness in the way people live, dress, and express themselves that goes beyond the basics. This kind of arte is about passion, culture, and impeccable taste.
Take, for instance, the style of Heart Evangelista. She is known not just for the luxury items she carries, but for the thoughtful, artistic way she personalizes her look — carefully matching textures, stacking three rings on one finger, or layering her own original painting atop a classic Hermès bag. This is arte elevated: a refined, intentional expression of identity.
It’s not merely about owning fine things, but about curating them with purpose and cultural awareness. Imagine a French sunroom adorned not just with any art, but with a carefully chosen 17th-century painting that resonates with the room’s ambiance. It’s the difference between decoration and true cultural storytelling through style.
I witnessed this firsthand while attending one of the finest private universities in the Philippines. Students didn’t just wear what was trendy or convenient; they showed a mindful passion for life through their arte. Wearing Havaianas that matched the color palette of their outfit or the rhythm of their day wasn’t coincidence. It was a subtle but powerful way to engage deeply with daily experiences, transforming ordinary occasions into elegant rituals.
My own arte is choosing a diamond each morning that reflects my outfit and mindset for the day. That subtle ritual grounds me—it’s a small act of intentionality and care that helps me prepare for whatever lies ahead. More than just an accessory, it’s my way of taking control, expressing my dedication, and embracing responsibility for how I show up in the world.
Ultimately, the art of arte transcends fashion or home decor. It is a philosophy of living that invites us to engage fully with the world around us, from how we dress and decorate to how we cook and nurture relationships. It’s about embracing intentionality and taste in all aspects of life, turning everyday experiences into expressions of culture, imagination, and joy.
In this light, arte is no longer something to shy away from or mock—it is an ideal worth aspiring to: a perfect blend of creativity, culture, and individual flair that elevates even the simplest acts.