Filipinos are known for their classy taste in fashion as well as magnificent know-how in style, a reason the Philippines is the haven for talented designers that set benchmarks worldwide.
Here are few Filipinos designers who have raised the flag high not just on a national, but on a global level:
Michael Cinco
Tracing his roots from humble beginnings in a remote village in Catbalogan, Samar, Cinco took the fashion industry by storm through his sheer talent, hard work and creativity.
Today, Cinco is considered one of the most sought-after designers in the world. His designs had been worn by various Hollywood A-Listers like Beyonce, Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Jennifer Lopez, Kylie Minogue, Christina Aguilera, Mila Kunis and Sofia Vergara among others.
His creations had also been worn by Arab and European royalties as well as the Philippines’ who’s who like Marian Rivera and husband Dingdong Dantes, and Julia Barretto, to mention a few.
He has appeared in America’s Next Top Model Cycle 16 and 17, followed by Asia’s Next Top Model and just early this year China’s Next Top Model. He was also tapped by Hollywood filmmakers to dress Mila Kunis in Hollywood Sci-Fi hit movie, Jupiter Ascending. Cinco was also the first ever Filipino designer that dressed a celebrity in Metropolitan Gala, one of the most important events in fashion hosted by Ana Wintour in New York. It is an event where fashion elite and expert meet.
Monique Lhuillier
This Filipino-American designer, who hails from Cebu City, is a sought-after in the US, with her bridal and formal gowns being worn by high-profile Hollywood celebrities, including Taylor Swift, Emma Stone, Blake Lively, Demi Lovato, and even Michelle Obama. In 2006, she got the coveted Presidential Medal of Merit, which was given by Philippine president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
Furne One
This Dubai-based Filipino designer is taking over the world of couture, teaming up with the most elite personalities in Hollywood, including Beyoncé and Katy Perry, Ariana Grande, Nicki Minaj, Jennifer Lopez, Shakira, and Carrie Underwood, among many others.
However, despite his prominent name in the global arena, he still creates his masterpieces out of inspirations from back home—consistently incorporating sustainable fabric from Southeast Asia.
Rosenthal Tee
Rosenthal was the youngest designer to be a part of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in Malaysia nearly six years ago. She eventually moved on to producing several showcases for New York Fashion Week.
Tee, who has completed her education from the London College of Fashion, is notable for her exquisite bridal pieces and intricately beaded gowns
She is currently a professor at the School of Fashion and Arts Design Institute in Manila.
Carl Jan Cruz
This millennial designer is known for her modern and innovative designs that refer to the Filipino custom of wearing house garments of pambahay, drawing young audiences with his interesting and unique use of silhouettes. He also employs an amazing contemporary perspective in his creations, mostly using organza reminiscent of the Philippines lightweight formal national shirt.
Seph Bagasao
His inventive design blending skills—including mixing denim and knits—have made him the go-to designer of the most renowned actors in the Philippines. At a young age, he has already represented the country at the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in Tokyo.
Contributed by Shilpi Kakani
