Randy Ortiz creates Homage, an ode to fashion

MANILA, Philippines - In a way, every fashion item pays homage to something, whether one realizes it or not. Those oversized shades? In homage to Jackie O. That little black dress? Homage to Audrey Hepburn. Safari-inspired clothing? A tribute to Yves Saint Laurent. Fashion is all about referencing great people and great ideas, reminding one of fashion’s long heritage of creativity and artistry.

This summer, Kashieca launches a very special salute to the Philippine fashion industry with a scent conceptualized by its contributing designer, the inimitable Randy Ortiz. It’s Homage Eau de Toilette, a fitting ode to fashion, the women who wear it, and the designers who create it.

The fragrance is a complete sparkling infusion of mandarin, orange and lemon, balanced by middle notes of papaya, mint and mango, and then rounded by base notes of patchouli and oakmoss. The box is Randy Ortiz’s very own design translated to fragrance packaging.

The acclaimed Filipino designer and former president of the Fashion and Design Council of the Philippines shares his thoughts on this bottled tribute:

Homage Eau de Toilette by Randy Ortiz is the newest offering from Kashieca. Its fragrance is a blend of mandarin, orange and lemon, rounded by base notes of wood and musk.

PHILIPPINE STAR: What inspired you to come up with the fragrance concept of Homage?

RANDY ORTIZ: The inspiration comes from a personal thought expressing my reverence and gratitude to a lot of people who made an impact on my life personally and professionally. Homage the fragrance talks about my love for fashion and fascination for scents. My journey through fashion is constantly evolving and the fresh scent of Homage is in sync with my sensibility and discipline as a designer in the sense that I aspire and strive to come up with a novel collection all the time.

Finish the sentence: “I pay homage to...”

I’m forever grateful to God, for making all things beautiful and possible and for realizing all my dreams... I pay homage to my dear family and friends for the love and support, most especially to my late parents, the ultimate inspiration in my life. I pay homage to fashion for making me the person that I am today. Fashion is forever challenging and fulfilling. And finally I pay homage…and give my adulation to Ben Chan, the man behind the brand for his vision and mission for Philippine local retail.

In your mind, what kind of woman would wear Homage?

Women of all ages can wear the fragrance. It’s perfect for women with an active lifestyle and women who live and breathe fashion. Likewise, the citrus scent embodies elegant and sophisticated women.

Homage is perfect for women who live and breathe fashion. It matches the casual sophistication of the Kashieca brand.

What is your interpretation of the Kashieca brand? How do you view it?

Kashieca is about casual, sophisticated, sleek fashion personified. A brand that caters to a wide-range market, very contemporary yet classic, young, feminine and fresh. The brand is progressive and evolving.

What is the best homage somebody can give you? How would you envision it?

The respect that you earn from your peers in the industry is of utmost importance to me. It’s all about how one values your body of work, your dedication and your passion for fashion. Longevity is not a guarantee but what matters most is your sincerity and dedication to your craft. Homage is my way of giving back to fashion.

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Homage is available at all Kashieca boutiques and select Bench stores nationwide.