Katrina’s U-niverse

In the fashion-retailing universe, the Tantoco surname spells success of cosmic proportions. And why not? The kingdom they reign over spans over the vastest mix of fashion labels any Filipino incorporation has amassed. However, carrying the surname is one thing. Living up to it is another. And that’s what 27-year-old Katrina Tantoco, co-designer (along with sister-in-law Hindy Weber-Tantoco) for U, the latest fashion brand for the young and hip in Rustan’s, is exactly doing. Katrina is the eldest daughter of Rico Tantoco, president of the Rustan Commercial Corporation, and creative mind Nena Vargas, and siblings to Donnie, Joel, Gippy, Robbie, Paolo, and Bea.

It should come as no surprise that since graduating from the Santa Clara University in California with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature, Katrina steeped herself into the day-to-day operations of the retail business. But contrary to common, negative notions of nepotism, her road to retail mastery was well-earned, despite the breaks, and not a particularly easy one at that she admits.

"After college, I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to work in the business and the retail industry in general, but that was after going through an application process," she recalls. "In the process, I discovered my passion for all the functions that the industry requires. Retail is really so intense and dynamic. And I hope that in my own small way, as I continue to learn and grow in this business, I hope to make a worthwhile contribution to the group."

But it was only two years ago when this die-hard wake-boarder found her perfect niche, in the design team of the U and Young VIP labels of Rustan’s. Katrina smiles, "U came about after we felt that it was necessary to tap deeper into a younger market, hence the fruition of a young division." Her days since then have been far from typical, as she works on designs, meets with suppliers, makes store visits, and discusses new concepts with her team on a weekly basis.

Despite her busy schedule, this hardworking and go-getting looker also has her fair share. "When I’m not working, I love going to the beach to wake-board and to have my ‘water-and-sun therapy’ and just absorb all the positive energy by the sea. Though I tend to stay home and chill with friends most of the time, there definitely are nights where I do have the urge to check out the party scene. And as sappy as this may sound, I do enjoy spending time with my family." She also likes to relax by reading , having bubble baths and massages, taking pictures, and singing her heart out whenever she feels safe, sad, or when she simply wants to vent.

And lest we forget, shopping–a passion, which for many obvious reasons, has also become a job which Katrina has learned to love. "I enjoy the creative part of my job. It’s exciting meeting and working with people in the fashion and media industry. But more than that, I get a sort of high from seeing someone in a crowd wearing a design that the team has worked on together. I love it when we get compliments from people about the U department, especially regarding execution of a design and seeing the final product. All of these and a lot more, are rewards that I remind myself never to take for granted."

"Life is unpredictable, and that’s what makes it provocative and fascinating," the lovely Katrina contemplates. "But as of now, I feel fortunate and challenged by me career, and would like to make more contributions in whatever way I can.

What then do the stars have in store for Katrina? Such a forecast we may never know. But we are sure of one thing: They’re definitely aligned in her favor, and would never leave this determined babe astray.