A-muse me
December 26, 2003 | 12:00am
Lulu Tan Gan with Leica Carpo, PR of L’Oreal Cosmetics
She is no knit-wit when it comes to fashion. Lulu has been one of the strongest and most influential figures in fashion. Not only has she achieved international acclaim for her work, she has also helped strengthen the industry. Chairperson of the Fashion Design Council of the Philippines, she has helped create a solidarity among fellow designers, and more importantly, awareness of local consumers of the sublime miracles of Philippine fashion.
How does Leica inspire you?
Leica is the woman of today, independent and definitely knows how to have fun too. She has great sense of fashion, innovatively fun but always classy chic. Many times, her sense of styling is original. We’ve worked together in some fashion projects. She’s very committed, loyal and transparent. I’ve seen her company grow so much and I’d like to give her big-time credit.
Thoughts on muses?
It is so important that we have muses. They become inspirations for artists and designers. International icons and muses like Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, and Princess Diana become references for creators. I would classify Tessa Valdes as "muse extremist." She is an inspiration, not necessarily for people to look like her, but she makes one think how she can dress differently and yet be so relaxed about herself! To become a truly sophisticated society, we need muses, characters, non-conformists and extremists.
What other things inspire you?
Travel and people, I need variety, change.
What can you look forward this coming year?
I see MORE men being fashionable. Fashion trends would be ‘40s, ‘50s and ‘60s, nostalgia mixed with ethnic inspirations.
Randy Ortiz and chechel joson, makeup artist
His effervescent personality betrays his otherwise haughty and sophisticated designs. Who does not know Randy? Being in the business long enough to establish himself in both retail and couture, Randy is still riding high, proving that despite an industry notorious for its fickleness, there are the gems that last forever.
How does Chechel inspire you?
Chel is a good friend and we share a lot of common interests. We go out, we party, we travel and we shop together. We both have a passion for fashion. I find her very sexy and sophisticated in tailored and mannish outfits. She gives me a high energy every time we talk about her work as a fashion stylist and makeup artist. Same goes for me when we talk about my work. We inspire each other. Her enthusiasm is incredible. We exchange views and ideas about clothes openly. There’s nothing like having somebody who appreciates you not only as a designer as a person as well.
Thoughts on muses?
Having a muse has more to do with friendship for me.
What other things inspire you?
Fashion in general inspires me. Seeing designers create beautiful clothes. Watching new designers express creativeness and making their mark in the industry. A healthy competition is inspiring.
What are you looking forward to this coming year?
I look forward to an exciting year in fashion. More fabulous shows like Metrowear. Hopefully, we can hold our own version of Manila Fashion Week. I am also excited to see new and exciting designers, FDCP’s annual Paris competition and lastly a Philippine design brand for the world market and more support from government agencies like DTI, GTEB and CITEM.
What are the best gifts that you have received so far this year?
I got an inspiring book written by a long-time friend that talks about inner beauty. It discusses the idea of being beautiful inside our hearts with the lasting charm of a gentle quiet spirit.
Rajo Laurel with Tessa Prieto Valdes, Interior decorator, Urban Spa proprietor, fashion artist and writer
It was once said to me by a friend that if you want to be a woman, go to Rajo. Rajo’s idea of what a woman is may make your head spin. He embraces all sorts of femininity and never fails to surprise even the most jaded of style creatures. Rajo has not only draped fabric on some the country’s most fabulous shoulders, but he has also ventured to seek ground regionally. And when he does take them, we won’t be surprised.
How does Tessa inspire you?
I chose her because she lets my imagination soar and provides means for me to express my vision. She is also a willing canvas to be explored.
What aspect of your relationship inspires you?
It’s definitely the friendship. Tessa pushes me when I’m down and grounds me when I’m lofty.
Thoughts on muses?
I believe in muses because you need a second eye and opinion to bounce ideas back with.
What other things inspire you?
Traveling, good literature, music, cinema and interesting people.
What are you looking forward to?
I look forward to more projects in the corporate world and a ready-to-wear line.
What are the best gifts that you have received so far this year?
My celebrity clients performing at my company Christmas party and a Pucci towel from Tim Yap.
Jojie Lloren with Jo Ann Bitagcol, model and amateur photographer
The ultimate auteur, a shy man, a bold designer. Infamously shy, that he even let his lovely muse pose alone in lonely contemplation, Jojie lets his work speak for him. Of course, once you get to know him you find out where all that balderdash comes from. His spirit, unfettered by superficial fascinations, is the ultimate nucleus of his genius.
How does Jo Ann inspire you?
On the ramp she glides. Its part because she is a close friend and her personality the way she carries her clothes. Jo Ann’s humility and absence of airs.
Thoughts on muses?
Muses are supposed to inspire. I adapt my ideas to her and there it evolves. The muse puts life in my designs, she gives it character. It ceases to no longer be just a piece of garment.
What are you looking forward to?
Better economy, better government
Best gift that received so far this year?
The friendships that I cultivated this year.
Dennis Lustico with Wendy Puyat-Hotung, graphic designer
Dennis recently quit his short stint in retail to focus on his true love, which is couture. This nurse-turned-designer uses fabric like Play-doh, creating fantastic pieces that defy the stretches of imagination and yet lets the lady remain in his garments. A savant in every way, his opuses span from post-mod pop art to baroque to space age art deco.
How does Wendy inspire you?
Wendy is an adorable outfit vixen. I love her sophisticated yet cuddly qualities. She’s the ultimate give-me-more-fight-outfits glam girl. I look forward to our constant "this-is-our-look-of-the moment" meetings.
Thoughts on muses?
I believe I the power of a muse. They are the best advertising mannequins.
What inspires you?
I’m very much inspired by fabrics. Generally it could be music, accessory materials and the party people I see.
What are looking forward to?
I’m hoping that this coming year will be a more productive period in terms of quality pieces that I make, and that I’ll be able to churn out more design-challenging outfits.
What is the best gift that you have received?
It is the opportunity to dress the most ubiquitous fashion personalities.
Rhett Eala with Miriam Quiambao, TV personality
He has made his name in both retail (the fabulously famous Due and Wink) and has dressed the most beautiful princesses of the junior set of fab (the late Patricia Borromeo and Mai Mai Cojuangco to name a few). Rhett is obsessed when it comes to clothes. He slaves over every little detail, and that’s why his work is highly addictive – when he delivers something you see that every stitch is sewn with passion. His libido for fashion is insatiable, and because of that we should be so lucky.
How does Miriam inspire you?
For obvious reasons of course, and because she gives my dresses grace and charm, and our friendship.
Thought on muses?
It’s important to be inspired.
What other things inspire you?
Music, nature, emotion and India.
What can you look forward to this coming year?
Coatdresses, prints, 1950s chic.
What was the best gift that you received this year?
Socks.
Frederick Peralta with Alta Redor, fashion marketing student
A favorite among the show biz circle, Frederick makes Hollywood dreams into couture. His classically flamboyant pieces stand out effortlessly.
How does Alta inspire you?
Alta Redor is a young lady with simple style on her hands. Her traits impressed me so much, especially her being simple and carefree.
Thoughts on muses?
Muses are mediums of representation, of our creativity as designers.
What other things inspires you?
With no hypocrisy… what inspires me is the color of money! Among other things of course.
What can you look forward to this coming year?
Fashion is individualism —- no matter what trends dictate, it’s always subject to one’s perception… so regardless of what forecast or trends would be, we just have to anticipate that everything should be wearable.
What was the best gift that you received this year?
I always thank God for giving me the opportunity to do service and make a difference in other lives through my creativity as a designer. Meeting people is a big dreaming process, to make one a better person, as for me the value of friendship will always be the special gift God has given me now and forever.
Patrice Ramos Diaz with Angel Jacob, TV personality and model
A favorite among the power ladies for her modern yet classic sensibilities. She has a clean and fresh take on sensuality. She knows what makes a woman feel like a woman.
How does Angel inspire you?
Angel and I have been friends even before I started designing and before she started modeling. Through the years, we’ve encouraged and supported each other. She has always made time for me whenever I needed a model and I would also provide her outfits for her events. I chose her not just for her looks, but also because I admire her sense of style. I can bounce off ideas with her, as she has a keen eye for fashion. I’m also partial to the understated, effortless style that Angel projects. I think it’s because we’ve developed such a friendship, and that our relationship goes beyond fashion. I’ve seen her evolve in the past few years, and I’m happy to see how far she has gone. I always believed she would be successful.
Thoughts on muses?
For me, the purpose of having a muse is for a designer to have an instrument by which he/she can communicate to the market a certain look that would represent his work. Fashion is about an image, a look, a concept, or a style. A muse can personify the designers’ philosophy and she is an important marketing tool for a designer to create branding or an identity. Most importantly, the muse serves as an inspiration to the designer.
What other things inspire you?
Music, art, colors, fabric, travel, interesting people.
What are you looking forward to this year?
I would like to deliberately clean up my lines. I’m maturing as a designer, and I’m finding myself going for less experimental, more streamlined, sleek clothes. I’m thinking about doing RTW this coming year. I predict that the market will want well-designed, affordable clothes.
What was the best gift that you received this year?
The gift of being inspired. And more importantly! I never had a boring day.
There comes a time when someone encounters a sort of solstice in their lives. For James it was leaving his cushy job in advertising for the more capricious world of fashion. Just like Peter Mayle who also left his advertising job to write, the ingenuity of his work proves that he made the right choice.
How does Angel inspire you?
Angel has been my friend from the time I worked in an ad agency. She is fantastic to dress up, and most of all, she really supported me when I made my transition.
What inspires you about your relationship?
She is willing to experiment with me. Most of all her beauty.
Thoughts on muses?
Any form of inspiration helps.
What else inspires you?
Music, architecture (modern architects most especially like Rem Koolhas), varied forms and shapes.
What are you looking forward to?
Color because of the renewed positive attitude.
Best gift that you received this year?
None yet…
Louie Claparols with Celine Gabriel, assistant PR for L’Oreal Cosmetics
Louie is all about prints. From radiographed profiles of former first ladies to blinding beaded artworks sewn onto jeans, Louie draws a blurry line between day and night and creates garments for the ultimate 24-hour party!
What is it about Celine that inspires you?
I’ve always admired Celine from the first day I saw her three years ago. She has this bubbly personality that lights up every room she enters, and she’s a fun person to be with. She is the perfect person that embodies the look of the clothes I make, which is FUN. How does she inspire me? In a thousand unexplainable ways. I guess when we are brainstorming for a design, we text each other even at 3 a.m. if we come up with ideas. Like in the middle of the night when I get hit by inspiration I would text her "Hey can I dress you up like Beyonce?"
Thoughts on muses?
That’s why Celine is there. I think at one point a designer has to have someone who would represent his ideas and work or someone who embodies what the label really is.
What other things inspire you?
I have asked that question too, I think I derive a lot of inspiration from music and I have very extreme taste in music. I would be playing music from Annie Lennox to Aerosmith from Madonna to Maria Callas. Roberto Cavalli and Paul Smith have inspired me a lot, too, that’s the reason why I guess my work is so colorfully embellished.
What can you look forward to this coming year?
Fun and flirty clothes. Fluid fabrics and bright colors.
What was the best gift that you received this year?
Hmmm... I have not received an Hermes Alligator cigarette case yet. I think it’s the chance I got to prove myself in this very naughty fashion industry. It’s like fate has handpicked me out of the sea of young aspiring "Joe Salazars."
Joey Samson with Rorie Carlos, fashion editor of Preview Magazine
His quirky take on androgyny has garnered him a cult following among the junior set. From sleeves used as trains, to creating hot pants for black tie events, Joey breaks the rules beautifully.
How does Rorie inspire you?
It has to be Rorie Carlos! She is one of the nicest and sincerest person I’ve worked with in the industry. The first gown I did for one of her editorials, she bought it for herself. I think there’s some sort of trust in there and that’s very important for me. For somebody to give her trust and for believing in my work. Every time I see Rorie, she never fails to amaze me with the her style which is both preppy and vintage, needless to say it’s kinda my style, too. I guess it’s the way she puts and infuse things together. Always classic and fresh. I’d like to think that each time I do something for her, be it for an editorial or a personal order, the small talks and texts messages – the fashion ed-designer relationship lead to this thing called friendship. I can’t help but feel that the few times we would communicate or see each other, the friendship always takes on another level.
Thoughts on muses?
It does help to look up to someone or to picture your work or vision on someone especially during those days when you just can’t get things started.
What other things inspire you?
A good day. People. New environment, relationships, friendships, images and old pictures.
What can you look forward to this coming year?
It’s going to be more about being honest with yourself on how you envision things. For me it’s looking deeper from what is inside me and what I am really made of. What makes me, myself. It’s going to be more of personalizing my work.
What was the best gift that you received this year?
It has to be the trust and the support people have given me. And of course, my friends.
Ivarluski Aseron with Agoo Bengzon, beauty editor of Preview Magazine
Known for his sculptural corsets and witty mix of patterns, Ivar sticks to his guns when it comes to his own definition of sexy. Neither overt nor too concealed, Ivar relies on his instincts when it comes to defining a woman and her sensuality through his clothes. He believes that the appeal of a woman is in her intelligence and how confident she is carrying it.
How does Agoo inspire you?
Agoo exudes class with an edgy appeal and she exemplifies my style. We work well together and we have become good friends. She knows what she wants, but she still lets me experiment on her. Of course it’s a bonus that she’s got a good figure. I draw my inspiration mainly from my boundless imagination. Its is extremely fulfilling to be able to materialize what is in my head into beautiful creations.
What can you look forward to this coming year?
I look forward to more challenges in my work that will lead me to explore new horizons in fashion.
What was the best gift that you received this year?
The gift of forgiveness. Being forgiven and having learned to forgive.
She is no knit-wit when it comes to fashion. Lulu has been one of the strongest and most influential figures in fashion. Not only has she achieved international acclaim for her work, she has also helped strengthen the industry. Chairperson of the Fashion Design Council of the Philippines, she has helped create a solidarity among fellow designers, and more importantly, awareness of local consumers of the sublime miracles of Philippine fashion.
How does Leica inspire you?
Leica is the woman of today, independent and definitely knows how to have fun too. She has great sense of fashion, innovatively fun but always classy chic. Many times, her sense of styling is original. We’ve worked together in some fashion projects. She’s very committed, loyal and transparent. I’ve seen her company grow so much and I’d like to give her big-time credit.
Thoughts on muses?
It is so important that we have muses. They become inspirations for artists and designers. International icons and muses like Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, and Princess Diana become references for creators. I would classify Tessa Valdes as "muse extremist." She is an inspiration, not necessarily for people to look like her, but she makes one think how she can dress differently and yet be so relaxed about herself! To become a truly sophisticated society, we need muses, characters, non-conformists and extremists.
What other things inspire you?
Travel and people, I need variety, change.
What can you look forward this coming year?
I see MORE men being fashionable. Fashion trends would be ‘40s, ‘50s and ‘60s, nostalgia mixed with ethnic inspirations.
Randy Ortiz and chechel joson, makeup artist
His effervescent personality betrays his otherwise haughty and sophisticated designs. Who does not know Randy? Being in the business long enough to establish himself in both retail and couture, Randy is still riding high, proving that despite an industry notorious for its fickleness, there are the gems that last forever.
How does Chechel inspire you?
Chel is a good friend and we share a lot of common interests. We go out, we party, we travel and we shop together. We both have a passion for fashion. I find her very sexy and sophisticated in tailored and mannish outfits. She gives me a high energy every time we talk about her work as a fashion stylist and makeup artist. Same goes for me when we talk about my work. We inspire each other. Her enthusiasm is incredible. We exchange views and ideas about clothes openly. There’s nothing like having somebody who appreciates you not only as a designer as a person as well.
Thoughts on muses?
Having a muse has more to do with friendship for me.
What other things inspire you?
Fashion in general inspires me. Seeing designers create beautiful clothes. Watching new designers express creativeness and making their mark in the industry. A healthy competition is inspiring.
What are you looking forward to this coming year?
I look forward to an exciting year in fashion. More fabulous shows like Metrowear. Hopefully, we can hold our own version of Manila Fashion Week. I am also excited to see new and exciting designers, FDCP’s annual Paris competition and lastly a Philippine design brand for the world market and more support from government agencies like DTI, GTEB and CITEM.
What are the best gifts that you have received so far this year?
I got an inspiring book written by a long-time friend that talks about inner beauty. It discusses the idea of being beautiful inside our hearts with the lasting charm of a gentle quiet spirit.
Rajo Laurel with Tessa Prieto Valdes, Interior decorator, Urban Spa proprietor, fashion artist and writer
It was once said to me by a friend that if you want to be a woman, go to Rajo. Rajo’s idea of what a woman is may make your head spin. He embraces all sorts of femininity and never fails to surprise even the most jaded of style creatures. Rajo has not only draped fabric on some the country’s most fabulous shoulders, but he has also ventured to seek ground regionally. And when he does take them, we won’t be surprised.
How does Tessa inspire you?
I chose her because she lets my imagination soar and provides means for me to express my vision. She is also a willing canvas to be explored.
What aspect of your relationship inspires you?
It’s definitely the friendship. Tessa pushes me when I’m down and grounds me when I’m lofty.
Thoughts on muses?
I believe in muses because you need a second eye and opinion to bounce ideas back with.
What other things inspire you?
Traveling, good literature, music, cinema and interesting people.
What are you looking forward to?
I look forward to more projects in the corporate world and a ready-to-wear line.
What are the best gifts that you have received so far this year?
My celebrity clients performing at my company Christmas party and a Pucci towel from Tim Yap.
Jojie Lloren with Jo Ann Bitagcol, model and amateur photographer
The ultimate auteur, a shy man, a bold designer. Infamously shy, that he even let his lovely muse pose alone in lonely contemplation, Jojie lets his work speak for him. Of course, once you get to know him you find out where all that balderdash comes from. His spirit, unfettered by superficial fascinations, is the ultimate nucleus of his genius.
How does Jo Ann inspire you?
On the ramp she glides. Its part because she is a close friend and her personality the way she carries her clothes. Jo Ann’s humility and absence of airs.
Thoughts on muses?
Muses are supposed to inspire. I adapt my ideas to her and there it evolves. The muse puts life in my designs, she gives it character. It ceases to no longer be just a piece of garment.
What are you looking forward to?
Better economy, better government
Best gift that received so far this year?
The friendships that I cultivated this year.
Dennis Lustico with Wendy Puyat-Hotung, graphic designer
Dennis recently quit his short stint in retail to focus on his true love, which is couture. This nurse-turned-designer uses fabric like Play-doh, creating fantastic pieces that defy the stretches of imagination and yet lets the lady remain in his garments. A savant in every way, his opuses span from post-mod pop art to baroque to space age art deco.
How does Wendy inspire you?
Wendy is an adorable outfit vixen. I love her sophisticated yet cuddly qualities. She’s the ultimate give-me-more-fight-outfits glam girl. I look forward to our constant "this-is-our-look-of-the moment" meetings.
Thoughts on muses?
I believe I the power of a muse. They are the best advertising mannequins.
What inspires you?
I’m very much inspired by fabrics. Generally it could be music, accessory materials and the party people I see.
What are looking forward to?
I’m hoping that this coming year will be a more productive period in terms of quality pieces that I make, and that I’ll be able to churn out more design-challenging outfits.
What is the best gift that you have received?
It is the opportunity to dress the most ubiquitous fashion personalities.
Rhett Eala with Miriam Quiambao, TV personality
He has made his name in both retail (the fabulously famous Due and Wink) and has dressed the most beautiful princesses of the junior set of fab (the late Patricia Borromeo and Mai Mai Cojuangco to name a few). Rhett is obsessed when it comes to clothes. He slaves over every little detail, and that’s why his work is highly addictive – when he delivers something you see that every stitch is sewn with passion. His libido for fashion is insatiable, and because of that we should be so lucky.
How does Miriam inspire you?
For obvious reasons of course, and because she gives my dresses grace and charm, and our friendship.
Thought on muses?
It’s important to be inspired.
What other things inspire you?
Music, nature, emotion and India.
What can you look forward to this coming year?
Coatdresses, prints, 1950s chic.
What was the best gift that you received this year?
Socks.
Frederick Peralta with Alta Redor, fashion marketing student
A favorite among the show biz circle, Frederick makes Hollywood dreams into couture. His classically flamboyant pieces stand out effortlessly.
How does Alta inspire you?
Alta Redor is a young lady with simple style on her hands. Her traits impressed me so much, especially her being simple and carefree.
Thoughts on muses?
Muses are mediums of representation, of our creativity as designers.
What other things inspires you?
With no hypocrisy… what inspires me is the color of money! Among other things of course.
What can you look forward to this coming year?
Fashion is individualism —- no matter what trends dictate, it’s always subject to one’s perception… so regardless of what forecast or trends would be, we just have to anticipate that everything should be wearable.
What was the best gift that you received this year?
I always thank God for giving me the opportunity to do service and make a difference in other lives through my creativity as a designer. Meeting people is a big dreaming process, to make one a better person, as for me the value of friendship will always be the special gift God has given me now and forever.
Patrice Ramos Diaz with Angel Jacob, TV personality and model
A favorite among the power ladies for her modern yet classic sensibilities. She has a clean and fresh take on sensuality. She knows what makes a woman feel like a woman.
How does Angel inspire you?
Angel and I have been friends even before I started designing and before she started modeling. Through the years, we’ve encouraged and supported each other. She has always made time for me whenever I needed a model and I would also provide her outfits for her events. I chose her not just for her looks, but also because I admire her sense of style. I can bounce off ideas with her, as she has a keen eye for fashion. I’m also partial to the understated, effortless style that Angel projects. I think it’s because we’ve developed such a friendship, and that our relationship goes beyond fashion. I’ve seen her evolve in the past few years, and I’m happy to see how far she has gone. I always believed she would be successful.
Thoughts on muses?
For me, the purpose of having a muse is for a designer to have an instrument by which he/she can communicate to the market a certain look that would represent his work. Fashion is about an image, a look, a concept, or a style. A muse can personify the designers’ philosophy and she is an important marketing tool for a designer to create branding or an identity. Most importantly, the muse serves as an inspiration to the designer.
What other things inspire you?
Music, art, colors, fabric, travel, interesting people.
What are you looking forward to this year?
I would like to deliberately clean up my lines. I’m maturing as a designer, and I’m finding myself going for less experimental, more streamlined, sleek clothes. I’m thinking about doing RTW this coming year. I predict that the market will want well-designed, affordable clothes.
What was the best gift that you received this year?
The gift of being inspired. And more importantly! I never had a boring day.
James Reyes with Angel Aquino,TV personality, model and mother
There comes a time when someone encounters a sort of solstice in their lives. For James it was leaving his cushy job in advertising for the more capricious world of fashion. Just like Peter Mayle who also left his advertising job to write, the ingenuity of his work proves that he made the right choice.
How does Angel inspire you?
Angel has been my friend from the time I worked in an ad agency. She is fantastic to dress up, and most of all, she really supported me when I made my transition.
What inspires you about your relationship?
She is willing to experiment with me. Most of all her beauty.
Thoughts on muses?
Any form of inspiration helps.
What else inspires you?
Music, architecture (modern architects most especially like Rem Koolhas), varied forms and shapes.
What are you looking forward to?
Color because of the renewed positive attitude.
Best gift that you received this year?
None yet…
Louie Claparols with Celine Gabriel, assistant PR for L’Oreal Cosmetics
Louie is all about prints. From radiographed profiles of former first ladies to blinding beaded artworks sewn onto jeans, Louie draws a blurry line between day and night and creates garments for the ultimate 24-hour party!
What is it about Celine that inspires you?
I’ve always admired Celine from the first day I saw her three years ago. She has this bubbly personality that lights up every room she enters, and she’s a fun person to be with. She is the perfect person that embodies the look of the clothes I make, which is FUN. How does she inspire me? In a thousand unexplainable ways. I guess when we are brainstorming for a design, we text each other even at 3 a.m. if we come up with ideas. Like in the middle of the night when I get hit by inspiration I would text her "Hey can I dress you up like Beyonce?"
Thoughts on muses?
That’s why Celine is there. I think at one point a designer has to have someone who would represent his ideas and work or someone who embodies what the label really is.
What other things inspire you?
I have asked that question too, I think I derive a lot of inspiration from music and I have very extreme taste in music. I would be playing music from Annie Lennox to Aerosmith from Madonna to Maria Callas. Roberto Cavalli and Paul Smith have inspired me a lot, too, that’s the reason why I guess my work is so colorfully embellished.
What can you look forward to this coming year?
Fun and flirty clothes. Fluid fabrics and bright colors.
What was the best gift that you received this year?
Hmmm... I have not received an Hermes Alligator cigarette case yet. I think it’s the chance I got to prove myself in this very naughty fashion industry. It’s like fate has handpicked me out of the sea of young aspiring "Joe Salazars."
Joey Samson with Rorie Carlos, fashion editor of Preview Magazine
His quirky take on androgyny has garnered him a cult following among the junior set. From sleeves used as trains, to creating hot pants for black tie events, Joey breaks the rules beautifully.
How does Rorie inspire you?
It has to be Rorie Carlos! She is one of the nicest and sincerest person I’ve worked with in the industry. The first gown I did for one of her editorials, she bought it for herself. I think there’s some sort of trust in there and that’s very important for me. For somebody to give her trust and for believing in my work. Every time I see Rorie, she never fails to amaze me with the her style which is both preppy and vintage, needless to say it’s kinda my style, too. I guess it’s the way she puts and infuse things together. Always classic and fresh. I’d like to think that each time I do something for her, be it for an editorial or a personal order, the small talks and texts messages – the fashion ed-designer relationship lead to this thing called friendship. I can’t help but feel that the few times we would communicate or see each other, the friendship always takes on another level.
Thoughts on muses?
It does help to look up to someone or to picture your work or vision on someone especially during those days when you just can’t get things started.
What other things inspire you?
A good day. People. New environment, relationships, friendships, images and old pictures.
What can you look forward to this coming year?
It’s going to be more about being honest with yourself on how you envision things. For me it’s looking deeper from what is inside me and what I am really made of. What makes me, myself. It’s going to be more of personalizing my work.
What was the best gift that you received this year?
It has to be the trust and the support people have given me. And of course, my friends.
Ivarluski Aseron with Agoo Bengzon, beauty editor of Preview Magazine
Known for his sculptural corsets and witty mix of patterns, Ivar sticks to his guns when it comes to his own definition of sexy. Neither overt nor too concealed, Ivar relies on his instincts when it comes to defining a woman and her sensuality through his clothes. He believes that the appeal of a woman is in her intelligence and how confident she is carrying it.
How does Agoo inspire you?
Agoo exudes class with an edgy appeal and she exemplifies my style. We work well together and we have become good friends. She knows what she wants, but she still lets me experiment on her. Of course it’s a bonus that she’s got a good figure. I draw my inspiration mainly from my boundless imagination. Its is extremely fulfilling to be able to materialize what is in my head into beautiful creations.
What can you look forward to this coming year?
I look forward to more challenges in my work that will lead me to explore new horizons in fashion.
What was the best gift that you received this year?
The gift of forgiveness. Being forgiven and having learned to forgive.
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