A friendship beyond fashion
MANILA, Philippines - When people refer to me as a “muse” of Inno Sotto, people might presume that all this entails is just being around to wear his masterful creations through the years. But what it is really about is being a testament to an enduring friendship that has spanned over two decades.
When we were new friends, in the ‘80s, it was a time when I was still restless, excited and testing the waters. But he was always a steadying presence, with a steady, gentle and calming manner… able to guide me when lost or ready with sound advice when I needed his shoulder to rest my weary head on.
Despite his perpetually busy schedule, especially when mounting his awesome shows through the years, he has always taken time out to call and remind me to make time for a fitting so I would always be ready with a statement dress to wear, even if I chose not to wear his creation and opted for a vintage dress from my mom. I felt his usual caring nature for me and everything I hold dear the most during his show at the gardens around Tower One of Ayala, when he pushed me to be brave and daring in launching my flower business, via Fiori di M, by offering me the chance to serve my food and decorate the venue and buffet tables with my floral installations. Without his encouragement, support and belief in me, Fiori di M would not be where it is today.
His endless sharing of ideas has made my work richer, too: even the concept of my most favorite creation, Lusso, came to fruition after many inspired evenings of sharing with him and other kindred spirits.
We have weathered our most trying times together. When he lost Richard suddenly, we all tried as best we could to be there for him. When I went through my bout with thyroid cancer, he was always there for me. Many evenings were shared over adobo, kare-kare and champagne to steady each other when times were tough. My son, Amado, looks to him for advice, and I’d like to think that we are family to him, because he and those he loves are family to us. We may not have as many chances to touch base these days, but I relish the fact that I know he will always be there for me, and that the closeness I feel for him never pales.
These 30 years of Inno sharing his amazing creativity and his wonderful spirit with all of us has made our world richer and better. I know my life is richer and better because of him. Kudos and thank you, Inno… and I raise my champagne flute to countless more!
