Designer Kate Torralba likes geeks
July 19, 2004 | 12:00am
The world of fashion has much to thank Kate Torralba for. Deemed a prodigy by respected names in the fashion industry, this 25-year-old Cebuana has established her name by making women feel good about themselves. Our bachelorette draws and creates her own designs for the stylish Filipina – from halter-tops to wedding outfits. Both ready-to-wear and made-to-order clothes are marketed under her name.
About three years ago, Kate ventured into the big city of Manila to look for work. She had hoped to get a job in the Senate, and when the government position did not materialize, Kate was forlorn. However, instead of running back home to Cebu, Kate decided to develop her ideas about the need for party dresses to swish and sway. Now, she employs 15 individuals.
Kate’s artistic talents on the sketching board are enhanced by her skills at singing and playing the piano in public events and clubs. Taking up an MBA at Ateneo, Kate reflects on shopping for gifts, losing her favorite shoes and her love for geeks.
On what occasion do you lie?
When my orders are not ready…
Which living person do you admire most?
My mother – because she went through a lot to raise my brother and me. Another one is my grandfather who is a lawyer.
Who or what is the greatest love of your life?
Music and fashion. I am definitely not a purist when it comes to music. I appreciate jazz, rock, standards and classical.
How do you resolve your conflicts?
I am not the confrontational type. I usually keep to myself until I can review the problem. It often happens that people take advantage of me.
What sports/hobbies do you like most?
Shopping for gifts and wrapping presents. I recently took up oil painting under Patricia Perez Eustaquio.
What book influenced your life?
The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran. My friend gave me a copy back in high school.
What is your greatest fear?
Losing a loved one or losing my favorite shoes.
How do you start your day?
I wake up around 10 a.m. I am groggy for the next hour or so and then I work from home. My production is in Cebu.
What is your current state of mind?
Anxiously figuring out what my next step should be especially since I believe that one should never shy away from a good opportunity.
If you had the chance to change something in your life, what would that be?
I wish that I had pursued my creative endeavors even earlier. I would’ve loved to take a design-related course in college.
What is your greatest extravagance?
Shoes and food. I have lost count of how many pairs of shoes I have.
What is the first thing you look for when you meet a woman?
An indication of the type of character. In my work, I have to assess how adventurous a woman would be in her clothes.
What is the first thing you look for when you meet a man?
I used to have this idea that I knew what I wanted in a man, but now my ideals have changed and I want someone with a passion for what he is doing.
Which historical character would you like to have been?
Coco Chanel, who revolutionized the way women dress. She encouraged jackets, pants and accessories.
Name a moment that brings back happy memories.
My first piano lesson. It was something I always wanted to take up. I was about seven and studied classical piano until I was 12.
What does your mom often say to you?
"Respect your mom." I have a photo of my mom and she has this sign with that line.
What is your favorite journey?
The journey to me. One step at a time, I take note of my mistakes so I won’t have to commit them again.
What is the quality you most like in a man?
I love geeks. Someone who is eccentric, doesn’t go out much, reads books and loves music.
What is your greatest regret?
Not studying hard enough all my life, especially in college.
Who greets you when you get home?
That is a sad question. It used to be my Jack Russell Terrier named Pucci, but he passed away a week ago. I dressed him up. He wore clothes.
In case of a fire, what would you bring out first?
My paintings, my shoes and my laptop.
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