Barbie Alvez: Going Full Force

CEBU, Philippines - Fresh from a recent bridal show with fellow members of the Cebu Fashion Designers’ Alliance or C.F.D.A., namely Marichu Tan, Protacio, Edwin Ao, Ren Manabat, William Manahan and Wendell Quisido, new mommy and newest CFDA member, the celebrated lady designer Barbie Alvez talks about fashion and anything in between…

The FREEMAN: How did you start as a designer?

Barbie Alvez: I already had a strong inclination towards the arts at an early age. Having graduated with a degree in Interior Design, I first worked as a furniture designer for two and a half years. Eventually, my love for fashion proved too much to handle so I quit my job and timing could not have been any better as gut feeling and friends’ influence prodded me to join the 3rd Cebu Young Designer’s Competition three years ago. After that, I decided to go full force and put up my own boutique here in Cebu . Since then, I’ve been and still am trying to make fashion history, so to speak.

TF: What are your design principles/ aesthetics?

Barbie Alvez: Create classic, beautiful and luxe pieces. Be inspired and take in as much of the world and everything around you as possible and never stop improving and proving yourself everyday.

TF: What influences you most?

Barbie Alvez: Just about anyone and anything and definitely everything in between.

TF: Who are you fashion icons?

Barbie Alvez: Cate Blanchett, of course Kate Moss and Sienna Miller. I just love how they can wear almost anything from casual to couture and still look amazing. And then there’s Audrey Hepburn and Jackie O for those classic, timeless looks we all go back to and love.

TF: Who do you admire/aspire the most in the fashion industry?

Barbie Alvez: Locally, as in here in Cebu , I admire Philipp Tampus for such talent and of course, who wouldn’t want to aspire to be like Cary Santiago. Need I say more? Foreign? My list just goes on and on.

TF: Describe a day in the life of Barbie Alvez?

Barbie Alvez: At present, a day in the life of Barbie Alvez starts and ends with me being mommy and wife, and handling and being on top of things as career woman middle of the day.

TF: What are your dreams as a designer?

Barbie Alvez: To make it big in this industry or at least come close.

TF: Do you have words to impart to aspiring designers?

Barbie Alvez: Always, always stay grounded and humble no matter what and no matter who you’ve become. Never be cocky. If you must, make sure you have something to show for or have someone remind you not to do otherwise. And yes, there will always be that someone who will try and jerk your chain. Don’t let him/her get to you. Never stop improving and proving yourself, as earlier stated.

TF: What is your current state of mind as a new member of C.F.D.A?

 Barbie Alvez: Really honored and grateful. Genuinely happy.

TF: What could be your greatest contribution to the group?

Barbie Alvez: Simply being there to listen, follow, support and acknowledge the group. All of them are in the industry for years and their guidance is highly appreciated.