Fashion Designer

Michael Cinco’s ingenuity for concocting couture fantasies that inspire one to dream is truly unparalleled, earning him and his brand consistent international acclaim; his gift, however, to fascinate the world – well, that’s just icing on the cake.  Inarguably, he is ‘the’ most notable and prolific Filipino designer on an international scale, of this generation.

Adding to an endless list of A-list celebrities and royalty who have donned his pieces in the past, Michael’s creations were once again brought to the media forefront at the 2019 Cannes Film Festival when Thai-Danish actress and model Sririta Jensen turned heads in two-tiered masterpieces from his ‘Impalpable Dream of Swan Lake’ collection. Creating another iconic red carpet moment was American actress Laverne Cox, who wore a bold orange gown from his same collection at the 2020 InStyle and Warner Bros. Golden Globes After-Party.

Moreover, Michael’s indelible influence on the world of fashion was recently immortalized at the Savannah College of Art and Design, Museum of Art (SCAD). The solo-exhibition in Savannah, Georgia, curated some of Michael’s most opulent signature creations worn by his star-studded clientele – of which include Lady Gaga, Rihanna, and Beyonce.

While Michael continues to outdo himself in ways bigger than before through reinvention that stays true to his awe-inspiring aesthetic, he also brings our country’s creative geniuses to the forefront with him and his work, as a further consolidation of how the Filipino is a global force to be reckoned with.

Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf is Supported by: Kaya Skin Clinic,  Emirates Airline, and Unilever.

Special Thanks to Michael Cinco, Ezra Couture , Giordano, Darcey Flowers, IKON Solutions, Victors Freight, MPQ Tourism, Asia Gulf Companies –La Carne & Filfood, WOL Water

Get a copy of Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf Legacy Edition

Michael Cinco

Fashion Designer

Building a brand is one thing, but staying relevant and exceeding one’s greatest feats is another. Year after year, revered fashion designer Michael Cinco continues to outdo himself in remarkable ways. In 2018, his sheer gift for fashion was underlined on a global scale yet again.

Amongst the numerous celebrities that donned his creations this year were British singer Leona Lewis, opera superstar Zarina Altynbayena, Quincy Brown at the MTV Movie Awards, and Aishwarya Rai who wore a showstopping gown at the 71st Cannes Film Festival that left the media raving. In the landmark film, Crazy Rich Asians, Kris Aquino, who portrays Princess Intan, is seen wearing none other than Michael Cinco. This stands as a truly symbolic moment, as parallel to what the movie champions, the presence of Michael’s work are yet another testament to Asian excellence.

Adding to his endless list of achievements, Madame Tussauds in Hong Kong enlisted the help of Michael to recreate his grandiose Swarovski embellished royal blue ball gown for Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach’s wax figure.  In 2019, he is also set to present a cruise collection inside the biggest cruise ship in Asia and was invited to show his pieces for a private millionaires’ gala in Singapore.  Another gala show in Manila is also in the offing, as well as the launch of the designer’s new more affordable bridal luxe line.

With his unwavering love for art and unparalleled craftsmanship intrinsic to his brand, Michael has undoubtedly played a huge role in elevating not only the field of fashion but also our profile as a people. When asked about his advice to Filipinos, he shares:

“I have my mantra: every morning I wake up and begin each day, I think about my goals, impalpable dreams, and ambitions. I always take the time to give thanks to the people that love me and surround my life. Tell the people closest to you that you love them because words have an enormous impact as they touch the lives of others and strike a verbal contract of accountability.”

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Special thanks to our sponsors: Emirates Airline, Stars n Bars La Mer, Liali, Instax – Grandstores UAE, Dusit Thani Dubai, Gver – Your Friendly Marketplace for Sharing, Meeting Dancewear , MPQ, CMG, Filbrit, and our partners Rozen Antonio Photography,  Alex Callueng Photography, Jef Anog Photography, and Ethereal Photography.

Browse the digital issue of Illustrado 100 Most Influential Filipinos of the Gulf 2018

100 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf: Michael Cinco – Fashion Designer

Like his imagination, his career knows no limit. With a name so huge in the fashion industry and a brand so well acquainted with the world’s A-listers and royalty, Michael Cinco continues to inspire fashionistas and Filipinos alike. We asked him what his secret was – Michael voiced: “You have to stay true to yourself and design clothes that you love and want to wear. At the same time, remember that fashion is a business. Know your market.”

With his works lauded on the runway from Dubai, to Manila, New York, London, Miami, Singapore, Los Angeles, Sydney, and then Paris, the red carpets of Hollywood and Cannes, not to mention featured on TV in America, Asia and China’s Next Top Model, as well as countless glossies from pole to pole, Michael Cinco’s dream of becoming a truly global brand someday, seems inevitable.  Inching closer to that aspiration, Michael has recently collaborated with COUTURÍSSIMO – an online brand that sells luxe couture dresses for less, which now has stores in Singapore, Indonesia and now in Manila carrying his prêt-à–porter line.

Amidst of these extraordinary opportunities, Michael notes what keeps him on top of his game, “It’s all about continuously learning over the course of one’s career. I believe that it is important to keep your skills sharp.”  He also remains modest and recognizes the support that allowed him to achieve tremendous feats.  “I always treat my team with so much respect and love. The best lesson I have learned in this business is to accept that there are people who are smarter than me with more expertise with what I’m trying to achieve.  I always try to be humble, ask and learn from them.”

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Photography by: Rozen Antonio

Illustrado 100 was made possible by sponsors: Giordano, Liali Jewellery, Mitsubishi UAE- Al Habtoor Motors, Michael Cinco Couture, Mapúa Institute of Technology, Centro – Amwaj Rotana Hotel , Max’s Restaurant Middle East and GVER – Your Friendly MarketPlace for Sharing

Co-Sponsors: Herschel Supply Co., Rove Hotels, The Medical City – Dubai , Filipino Institute UAE, MPQ Tourism, JAMES Travel and Tours Dubai, Off the Hook Seafood Restaurant, The Original Barrio Fiesta Restaurant – Dubai and Tapa King UAE. 

Read more Illustrado 100 on www.illustradolife.com

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An OTT Ode to the 80s with Illustrado’s Ones to Watch in Fashion

CREDITS

Producer: Mon Benitez

Creative Director: Michael Cinco

Photographer: Rozen Antonino

Hair and Makeup: Valentino Montuerto, Jhajha Rivera, Mau Piodena, Ivy Kep Peralta and Darwin Perez

Models:  Paulina and Sandra of Wilhelmina Dubai; Bruna, Gigi, Elena, Eduardo, and Adam of Niche Modelling Agency

Special Thanks to: Glitzy Ranya Robles, Ingrid Aureada, and Amyr Sean Kaiser of Niche Modelling Agency, and Michael Gomez of Wilhelmina Dubai

Production Team:  Rony Aquino, Alwee Villarosa, Paolo Benitez and Antonino Benitez

Production Support: Chris Daymon and Ace Sagario

Shot on location at Lighthouse Studio, Dubai

 It’s 2019s final stretch, and yet it’s like the 80s once again!

The era of big hair, big shoulders, new wave, funk, Dallas and Madonna has been feeding the frenzy of fashionphiles, especially with shows like Pose, The Get Down, Guardians of the Galaxy and even the nerdy Stranger Things gaining in cult following in recent years.  Nowhere in the last decade has cheesy nostalgia and vintage aesthetic been so uber cool with a revisiting of the era laced with all the funkiness and OTT (over-the-top) touches, but minus the awkwardness and the bad hairdos.

Just as the 80’s style and cultural inspirations have crept surreptitiously into pop consciousness lately, Illustrado’s Ones to Watch in Fashion this season have been steadily building up their couture cred in the international, regional and local circuits conquering hearts and runways steadily.  Currently, in varying stages of their careers, these UAE-based Filipino designers share something in common in that together, they are a rising force to reckon with slated to earn their space with the best names in the business.

Alexis Carrington, dahling!

Gigi channels ferocious 80’s screen vixen in this strong-shouldered piece with draped-front by Izhcka Zeta

IZHCKA ZETA

Francis “Izhcka” Zeta Creative Director at Jacy Kay, grew up dreaming about dressing his elegant muse Audrey Hepburn from as far as he can remember.  But for us, if there was a significant fashion icon from the past who surely embodies his fashion values it would be an edgy Marie Antoinette – unabashedly opulent, elegant, rooted in the classics but with a fresh spin, unique, grand.

Izhcka’s fashion statements are inspired by a myriad of curious things from baroque details to the unusual like dark butterflies, moths and lizards, translated masterfully into works of art with intricate embellishment that demand painstaking manhours.  He shares his design philosophy – “It is hard to pinpoint what makes my design style as it can vary according to mood and necessity. My artistic sensibility is such that I can capture a classical Baroque style and also finds myself pondering and working on a modern dress that can be an abstraction of the 21st-century look and feel. I can be working on a stylish floral-themed wedding this week and a goth-inspired theme for a royalty’s daughter. Flexibility, I guess. Or probably just being non-dimensional. Design for me is not just pitting different elements together to form a narrative, but it is about the polyphonic coming together, like the beautiful music coming from an orchestra in the opera house. Each instrument is unique and different, yet the harmony produced creates a story that is understood and is worthy of a standing ovation. Design mirrors that. The coming together of all unique elements in sometimes elegant, minimal, often grand manner, producing awe at the present moment and remembered as a beautiful memory that may become the standard.”

With his eye for detail, the instinct for the unique and his natural predilection for the tasteful, he could easily belong to a couture house in Paris.  Hence it was no surprise when he wowed the discerning Parisian couture crowd with his first-ever runway show with his collection “Monarchs of the Opera” which was equal parts stylish and intellectual.  His new collection is set to appear at two other major fashion shows abroad this year.

His eyes and hopes fixed firmly on the international couture scene, while his work is already well-known and highly sought after in the region, Izhcka’s career path is quite distinctive compared to his peers, just as his eccentric persona and dramatic demeanor cut a different figure from everybody else.

Drama in the Opera

Exaggerated opera coat in cerulean blue, over a deep purple fully-embellished gown on Bruna, by Garimon Roferos

GARIMON ROFEROS

A number of prominent Hollywood and Bollywood stars, international beauty queens, Filipino celebrities, including the Philippine President’s first granddaughter all share one couture label in common – Garimon Roferos, which they have worn during some of their most notable fashion moments in the public eye.

Slims Fashion School-educated Garimon, who was also the 2004 winner of the Concours International Des Jeunes Creatures de Mode in Paris France, has gone a long way since he first got his break in the industry in Riyadh in the ’90s.  Now with his fashion house firmly established in Dubai, Garimon takes pride in creating gowns and other custom garments in his signature style characterized by a feminine silhouette with an artistic edge, realized through distinctive crafting.  Well known in the local and regional market, Garimon has been dominating recently in the bridal show circuit and has received acclaim not only from clients in the Middle East but also requests from discerning brides in Europe and Asia.

Beyond his success in the region, Garimon dreams of staging his own show within the prestigious fashion weeks of Paris, New York, and Milan.  With his distinctive artistry and skills, as well as his pragmatic sensibilities and ability to deliver in his field, that aspiration is a viable reality in the very near future.

Flower Madness

Bias cut royal blue dress featuring heaps upon fantastic heaps of laser cut flowers and royal blue acrylic by Ryan Pacioles, worn by Sandra

RYAN PACIOLES

Funneling creative steam behind the rise of Atelier Zuhra is the modest designer with a cheeky mien Ryan Pacioles.  As the creative force behind the glamorous UAE-based Omani fashion house, Ryan known for his lavish, elegant and ultra-feminine designs always steeped in luxury, has won over royals and celebrities alike.  With an impressive ascent since their debut in Fashion Forward in 2017, Ryan’s designs have been worn around the world from parties of the elite, celebrity red carpets to prestigious runways including Dubai, Paris, London, and Moscow.

Of his process for creating, Ryan explains, “I always wanted to change things, to develop my own aesthetic whether it be based on a painting, a film, or an abstract concept, inspiration is all around us.  I believe in lightness, fragility within the couture capsule. I create dreamy and luxurious dress confections for a woman who wants to feel like a real queen or a princess, with glorious whimsical details to cure and feed everyone’s romantic soul and fantasies.”

Serving as a guide throughout his career, Ryan swears by this quote by American playwright, raconteur, and entrepreneur Wilson Mizner: “Be nice to people on your way up because you’ll meet them on your way down.”

High Voltage High Fashion

Elena in an electric red 80s ribbons-inspired dress with architectural collar and hand-painted floral embroidered appliqués by Angel Villiar de Jesus

ANGEL VILLIAR DE JESUS

Angel Villiar de Jesus pays homage to curves and the female silhouette as the basic foundation of all his creations, earning him a distinct identity as a designer.  The Managing Partner and Designer at Maro’Sha Ricci Fashion, he opened his couture house in Dubai with business partners nine years ago, after gaining experience working for a prominent couturier in the emirates.  He considers having the privilege to grow his fashion business and prosper in the very competitive market in the UAE his modest achievement.

Ever the wanderluster, the soft-spoken and thoughtful designer shares he finds inspiration in nature and its different seasons.  He says, “Whenever I travel, I feel my ability to create is renewed.”  He adds, “The people around me, whether good or bad, also inspire me to be the best version of myself.”   Asked what is it that will make him feel that he’s reached the zenith of his chosen career and passion, he remarks, “When I’m sitting at my beachfront in Palawan with my family, close friends, and my dogs, while my brands are moving strongly and enabling me to support my travels and adventures, that’s when I’ll feel I’ve finally made it.”

Tulle Confection

Sublimely swathed in candy floss green tulle, Paulina in Harvey Cenit

HARVEY CENIT

Steadily on the rise and reinforcing his name among the UAE’s fashion elite at each turn, designer Harvey Cenit has garnered a following in the UAE and beyond the Middle East. He has become a designer of choice for many of the country’s affluent and fashionable and has also dressed a handful of prominent Filipina muses including reigning Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray, indie actress Mercedes Cabral, Barbie Imperial, and singer Morisette Amon.

In less than half a decade, he has achieved a level of success in the industry – a feat that would often take more than double the time for many others. He is the head couturier of Al Aroos Aniqah – a highly revered label among Emarati women, famed for its opulent designs and forte within the bridal field.

His creations are conceived to uplift not only the female form but also the female psyche – all at once feminine and powerful. His pieces are elegant, sophisticated and tastefully embellished catering to the fancies of his discerning wearers.  To Harvey, the ultimate muse is a woman who is strong, independent, and sweet at the same time. He says, “Like an orchid, the Harvey Cenit woman does not need bees to pollenate it; nor a man for her to feel like a woman.  She is always empowered and graceful.”

The New Funky Dandy

Eduardo and Adam in the fresh and irreverent version of the classic blazer by Ronan Cabrito Opina

RONAN CABRITO OPINA

Ronan Cabrito has been a key talent in helping shape Michael Cinco Couture’s burgeoning menswear line working under the creative direction of “The Impalpable” designer himself.  Having been a pivotal member of Michael’s team for the last seven years, Ronan’s keen sense of style coupled with his deep understanding of production as well as fabrics has made him an invaluable member of one of Dubai’s most prominent fashion houses.

With his love for timeless classics and the desire to always find within it, its fresh expression, Ronan delights in working with vivid colors, textures, and embellishments turning what is familiar and expected into pieces that look totally new and current.  “My dream client is Leonardo di Caprio,” Ronan shares.  “His style is classic, timeless, and yet he is very much contemporary.”

As a rising designer in one of the country’s most celebrated ateliers, Ronan has been able to elevate his technical knowledge and experience within the field, placing him in an exciting position ahead of most of his peers.  Undoubtedly, the industry will see more brilliance from this up and coming designer in the years to come.

See what happened behind-the-scenes!

Check out more Illustrado Fashion

Read more about Filipino designers

The post Candy Couture: An OTT Ode to the 80s with Illustrado’s Ones to Watch in Fashion appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Dakilang Bayani (translated to Noble Hero) is the highest award given to Overseas Filipinos by the Office of the Philippine Consulate General in the UAE. It honors the deeds of overseas Filipinos who’ve gone above and beyond to uplift the Filipino community, while showcasing exceptional talent along the way.

This year’s awardees were comprised of International Couturier Michael Cinco, CEO of Prime Group Dr Mary Jane Alvero Almahdi, Senior Gulf News Reporter Angel Tesorero, Entrepreneur Fevie Laurilla, Financial Consultant Ace Quijada, Community Leader Josie Conlu, and Editor in chief & Co Founder of Illustrado Magazine, Lalaine Chu Benitez.

“Dakilang Bayani is a Filipino who inspires the community not just locally but also in the international scene. It has been my passion to elevate our identity and redefine how Filipinos are known in the global fashion industry by the creations impalpably seen through my eyes. I have created and transformed the Filipino aesthetics by dressing up known celebrities, royalties, beauty queens and supported worthy causes that propel who we are: Filipinos who are proud of our artistic heritage and unfettered by challenges. It is with great humility and transparency that I am able to say that what I have done in the fashion industry and will continue to do, inspired and will inspire generations of young designers to follow their impalpable dreams.”

“From the simple desire for a more progressive representation for Filipinos in the media, my team and I created Illustrado Magazine in 2006. For the last 15 years, we have been championing the world-class Filipino through aspirational and empowering content. We have not only supported thousands of talents, but also inspired millions of our compatriots across the globe to aspire for advancement. Most importantly, we have elevated the way our community is seen, while setting the gold standard for Filipino communications in the region. We have done this despite many sacrifices, commercial challenges, and limited resources — because this is our calling.”

“To be a Dakilang Bayani means creating a difference, making invaluable contributions to society and to helping other people realise their worth. Receiving a recognition from a reputed institution means a validation of one’s works. I’m honoured and I vow to continue to take responsibility for every choice and decision I make, and commit to continually improve myself to do more.”

“As a journalist, I deliver the news to my kababayans (compatriots) truthfully and with urgency. The pandemic has brought disinformation in mass media and I would like to believe I did my role in battling the ‘infodemic’ by providing the public — through Gulf News — with accurate information they needed to make informed decisions.”

“I’ve served the Filipino community by organising various community outreach programmes, medical missions, job fairs, and others. I’ve also showcased the strength of every successful Filipino in various social media platforms and spent time helping distressed overseas Filipinos by seeking assistance from government, semi-government and private organisations.”

“Helping anyone without any reservation, willing to take risks to fight for what is right, preserving integrity and personal values at any circumstance, being determined and committed to accomplish an endeavour for a good cause; even at the expense of sacrificing own time, goals and personal priorities. These have been my guiding principles over the years, and if these were the same parameters used in the evaluation for Dakilang Bayani, then perhaps these were the primary reasons why I was considered for the award by the selection committee and our beloved consul-general.”

“I am an ordinary Filipina who consistently helps my kababayans (compatriots) in my own little way. Others may think it’s a cliché, but when I help my kababayans who are in need, I also feel blessed. Helping others bring me joy and blessings come back a hundred-fold. And when you do good with a clean heart and sincere intention, I think that qualifies you to become an exemplary Dakilang Bayani.”

Taking on the immense task of shortlisting awardees, this year’s selection committee was composed of Consul General Paul Cortes, Mme. Yasmin Balajadia Cortes, Vice consul Aleah Gica, and Drs. Rommel Sergio Pilapil, Nino Decenorio, Rex Bacara and Ben Lebig. Five community leaders were also selected as runner-up candidates for the award: Francisco Boton, Emelina Parcia, Richard Zulueta, Ion Gonzaga and Lou Parocco.

Members of the committee and attendees of the event also paid special tribute to Consul General Paul Cortes, who is set to finish his Tour of Duty soon.

Under his leadership as the top Filipino diplomat to Dubai and the Northern Emirates, the consulate has received a number of awards and recognitions through its outstanding service.

The post Illustrado Editor-In-Chief among 7 Dakilang Bayani Recipients appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

All photos captured by Bethoven Filomeno (@caughtbybetongslens)

Michael Cinco

michaelcinco.com

Ezra Santos

ezracouture.co

Furne Amato

amatocouture.com

Ryan Pacioles

Atelier Zuhra

Read more on these designers: 

100MIFG – Michael Cinco

100MIFG – Ezra Santos

100MIFG – Furne One 

100MIFG – Ryan Pacioles 

Read more about Filipino Fashion on www.illustradolife.com

The post Filipino designers captivate audience at Fashion Forward 2019 appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

It’s our 12th year anniversary and what’s a more fitting way to celebrate than asking the fabulous fashion circle of UAE to come party with us in their own interpretation of our theme for the evening: “Dark Seduction”.

Spoiler alert? They did not disappoint! One thing we love about our parties is our attendees; because they don’t just show up — they come through in the most stylish way. So expect nothing but darkly seductive looks!

Set in the ultra Insta-worthy naughty Barbary Deli + Cocktail, people took advantage of the 1930’s vibe of the place to pose, snap and dance the night away! Headlining our guest list are fashion industry’s iconic “Holy Trinity” Michael Cinco, Ezra Santos, and Furne One Amato and since it’s also our Big Fashion Issue, top designers in the UAE were also present at the party! Statuesque Phio Enaje came in his mysterious version of the dandy look, Yen AB showcased his impressive signature stone studded cap. Casting Director of Fashion Forward Dubai, the svelte Michael Amazona was present along with Dubai’s fashionphiles. Notable fashion photographers Rozen Antonio and Jef Anog also did not miss out while make-up maven Valentino Montuerto and dazzlingly skilled stylists Joe Dark and The Style Curators Dubai served us with some fashion extravaganza!

Philippine Consul General Paul Raymund Cortes also clocked in with his wife Madame Yasmin Balajadia – Cortes who stunned everyone with her elegant beaded black dress. CEO and Managing Director of Giordano Middle East Ishwar Chugani also joined us as well as remarkable personalities from the business industry like Philippine Business Council Dubai Chairman Bobbie Carella.

We can go on with the name dropping but we think we should just show you:

https://www.facebook.com/illustradomagazine/photos/ms.c.eJxlk8ltBUAMQjuKvIy3~;huL8g9R8rgiBozNuHm7xZsZs7LyL~;9FeoiM~_1~_kotbK~_CqAVDwgzw7KZSVe5KzLhJfkBHUqE~_5xVE4jJ83JCXqlM3u~_IeJLJASpJpJMmi~_Yqzhzic4E59kkUiWcJ8pD9~_3jq2Wulkbl59D~;lFc4Jd04es0zmVBucbzgPHYjRzZW7Gobsz~;pxjQ7v9KxXm61gzOvzix77uSeZ5FrzRycWya9pvvVg~;slX7X8pktmv~_KVf5bBvyxeT7JrW~;JznW9T~;e70.bps.a.10161024772900051/10161024777005051/?type=3&theater

Take a peek at our livestream before the event:

So for those of us who have fun in fashion, it’s a Monday night that is worth remembering – not only because of the music, the naughty vibe and everybody’s love for dressing up, but most importantly, it was an occasion when we all came together to celebrate a community overflowing with so much talent, passion and respect for one another.

Special thanks to: Emirates Airline and Barbary Deli + Cocktail

The post WHO WORE WHAT?! ‘Dark Seduction’ at Illustrado’s Intimate 12th Anniversary Fashion Bash appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

MICHAEL CINCO

Fashion Designer

2016 saw Michael Cinco shedding tears at the Jardin de Tuileries after mounting his very first show at the Paris Haute Couture Week – a dream fulfilled, with the support of the Asian Couture Federation where the designer is a founding member.  It was not just another milestone.  It was THE milestone – the achievement of the ultimate aspiration, within the stellar career of this world-renowned designer.

The last decade has seen Michael Cinco’s unstoppable rise into both local, regional and international prominence, with his brand of haute couture gracing runways and red carpets around the world, his extravagant creations worn and sought-after by royalty, the elite and Hollywood A-listers.  His involvement with America’s Next Top Model, as well as Asia’s and China’s Next Top Model has also made Michael a household name adored by fashion fans across the globe.  The awards he’s received through the years, including one for Breakthrough Designer at the WGSN Global Fashion Award in New York and the Philippine Presidential Medal of Honor, well, those are just the proverbial icing on his already uber rich cake.  He says of his ride to success so far, “My career journey is at times giddy, other times calculated. But mostly impalpable and beautiful.”

Looking back on his wins, the hardworking designer shares thoughtfully, “Being a Filipino in the international fashion arena is a challenge, though a little clichéd. But I made it work for me.  So, be the best that you can. I can, therefore, you can. We can.”

Special thanks to – Giordano, Nikon, Liali Jewellery, Lulu, Mitsubishi and Western Union.

The post Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf: Michael Cinco – Trailblazer appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

By Lalaine Chu-Benitez

Photo courtesy of Couturissimo and Now Fashion

Nine years ago, before the red carpet dresses for Hollywood A-listers, before the million peso dresses became the talk of the fashion industry back home, before his Breakthrough Designer Award at the WGSN Global Fashion Award in New York, the standing ovations on the runways of Dubai, Manila, Australia, America’s Next Top Model and his induction to the Asian Couture Federation, the designer with the ‘impalpable dream’ (a phrase he coined and popularized), during our shoot for his first fashion editorial in Illustrado, enthusiastically shared his ultimate dream – that of having his very own show in Paris.

And as if the universe conspired, lo and behold, here comes Michael mounting his first show at the heart of haute couture.  In partnership with the Asian Couture Federation (ACF), and with the support and assistance of the French Government, the designer presented to key fashion industry personalities at the Jardin Tuileries, on the 3^rd of July 2016.

Michael who shed tears of joy during his landmark show gushed, “Paris is love. It is the realization of an impalpable dream. Every designer worth his salt, dreams to showcase his collection in Paris, the fashion capital of the world.”

He recalls, “My first venture in Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week was quite unique and unnerving. Through the ACF, I was asked to present two collections in one show – my ‘impalpable’ haute couture line and one for Couturissimo, the retail arm of ACF that aims to market my luxe couture-inspired line globally.” He proceeds to explain, “It was indeed challenging as I wanted a collection that is reflective of my Filipino heritage and yet transcending barriers and therefore, of strong global appeal.”

Indeed, Michael’s Paris debut wasn’t only a win for the himself and the rest of the Filipino design community, he also used the opportunity to put Philippine aesthetics to the fore utilizing the banig, barong, calado, solihiya, and terno as the basis for the design elements  featured so lavishly, but delicately, on his pieces.

As the first Filipino to have a haute couture show in Paris, Michael  appreciates how his achievement is a milestone that is shared with the rest of the Filipino design community, “It was both an exhilarating and a humbling experience to be at the forefront on behalf of all my compatriot designers, who equally work hard and dream big.” He is careful to add, “But it is a doable feat for as long as you have the dedication and the passion and the resolve to be on top of your game and work hard to prove it.  This is just the beginning.”

Staying grounded, but always ambitious through the years, Michael shares of his success, “I owe whatever success I have to my faith in God, to my family who continually inspire me and to my hardworking and dedicated workforce.”  He continues, “I am a work in progress. I constantly work at where I am and to where I intend to be. I believe one has to have an endless hunger for knowledge and an unquenchable quest for what is beautiful and inspiring. And for as long as I am happy with what I am doing, I am a success.”

The designer with the impalpable dream – now a dream realized, also has this to share with aspiring designers, “The glitz and glam of fashion is hollow if not altogether a myth. You have to be grounded, be humble, be on your toes and keep an open mind. And for one to be successful in this business, one has to be always inspired and see the world in all its dimensions and multi-colors. I always do, in my dark glasses.”

__________________________________

LALAINE CHU-BENITEZ

Editor-in-Chief “almost superwoman” Lalaine has been driving Illustrado’s mission to uplift Filipinos in the region for almost a decade now.  A former corporate dynamo living in Dubai for over 20 years, her natural knack for marketing and mass communications makes her a formidable authority in any dialogue regarding the re-branding of the Filipino image on a global scale.

Recommended stories:

The Men of Michael Cinco

Fashion’s Original Sin

Ezra Enraptured

The post Michael Cinco and His Paris Dream appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

By Consul General Paul Raymund Cortes

In general, when around other ethnicities, Filipinos tend to be extremely coy about what they can achieve or what they can contribute in the international community. They are meek and modest about their credentials and would rather take on a supporting role in their work environments, wary about being perceived as one of those loathed grandstanding know-it-all colleagues. Their self-esteem, to an extent, is scant and measly.

It is a different story when other Filipinos are heralded as global achievers. Their spirits are suddenly aroused, trumpeting in boastful revelry. Thus, when Manny Pacquiao is victorious at the ring, the whole nation goes ballistic. When Lea Salonga plays lead in any of Broadway’s musicals, Filipinos proudly celebrate her as one of them. Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach’s crowning moment was the entire country’s shining glory. Along comes a Filipino or any other half-Filipino/half-other nationality getting past Simon Cowell in any of those reality talent shows and Pinoy Facebookers erupt in maniacal cheer. Time and again, Pinoy Pride rockets to the highest heavens when our kababayans are recognized by the rest of the world. Sadly, it seems we project our sense of worth by vicariously living up the successes of other Pinoys abroad.

I don’t think there should be any issue in extolling what other Filipinos have achieved in the diaspora. A fellow Pinoy rising to the top of the global heap most certainly deserves applause and commendation. After all, their triumphs become fodder to our dogged will to survive and carry on in a competitively global environment. Their successes mirror the possibility that others too could reach for their stars in the manner that Manny or Lea, or just recently Michael Cinco, had reached theirs.

In the course of my year-old tenure as Consul General in Dubai, I have often been on the receiving end of praise and, quite a number of times, superfluous commendations from other ethnicities on the Filipino work ethic and ethos. It is almost as if no employer would trust anyone more than they would a Filipino. This rosy repute serves as a bright reminder of how much glory is within reach of the “ordinary” Filipino. On our own, we are trophies of sedulousness and indefatigable resolve to challenge and hurdle past the adversity that had forced our diaspora in the first place.

Is it really Pinoy Pride?

The motivation to succeed, however, should not only spring forth from tales of high-flying overseas Filipinos. Anecdotes of triumphant Filipinos back home should also be a source of inspiration for us. After all, the success of our people back home must never take second fiddle to the stories of those overseas. More often than not, though, Pinoy Pride is almost always a by-product of celebrated stories of global Filipinos. Our ethnicity does not begin when we leave the motherland. It commences upon our births and by being so, any heartening story of the Filipino, at home or abroad, must equally be predicated with Filipino Pride.

Frankly though, I am more at ease with enjoying the successes of others regardless of their ethnic background. While I smile when I hear of how far this small-rural-town Filipino has gone up the world, I likewise get a kick when I read about people, of whatever race, who beat their own odds. This is probably why those Facebook videos on humble, unknown talents amidst standing ovations and thundering applause; and the ubiquitous, emotion-tugging Thai commercials featuring success stories of average Joes eat up about 20-30 minutes of my morning time. These little-known glories rejuvenate and rekindle my spirit for the rest of the day, a necessary weapon as I battle the daily narratives of the unthinkable ordeals of my fellow Filipinos or the heart-wrenching stories of kababayan migrant mothers oceans away from their children. Their sagas of triumphs reflect the tenacity of the human spirit, one that transcends political barriers, economic walls, cultural divides, and geographic bounds.

It takes a great deal to believe in oneself and understand that national pride should stem from being ourselves alone, and not on how much people of our same background have achieved. The tendency of many in the ethnic pride arena is to rest on the laurels of a select few of their people and content themselves with the notion that their success somehow rubs off on them too, even if only by ethnic accident. George Carlin makes this point so crystal clear.  Now, allow me to echo this, as well. No particular ethnicity is predisposed to greatness. Everyone is and Filipino Pride is just as authentic as Japanese Pride or Aussie Pride or British Pride or any other type of national pride. It is one thing to shout out Pinoy Pride and it is another to use that as a jump-off point for one’s expedition for his own pinnacles. That anyone could be the Michael Cinco of their own towns or the Lea Salonga of their communities is a belief one should cling on to. We must keep in mind though that, to begin that journey, we must go beyond the hollow side of ethnic pride and veer towards the exultation of the human spirit and when we do, we will ultimately celebrate de-ethnicized pride.

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CONSUL GENERAL PAUL RAYMUND CORTES

When not performing his duties as the head of the Filipino community in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, or the obligations of a dutiful dad, passionate patriot Paul Raymund Cortes, mulls over how to further enrich the local Filipino community by promoting a more progressive mindset.

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Dubbed as one of the hottest Filipino personalities in the fashion industry, Michael Cinco shines brightly with an amazing array of achievements. From dressing royalties to celebrities, Michael Cinco has made it to THE list as one of the most influential Asians in the global fashion industry. The Dubai-based couturier has risen to fame as a string of Hollywood’s biggest names – Lady Gaga, Paris Hilton, Sofia Vergara, Mila Kunis, Britney Spears, Tyra Banks – chose to wear his stunning creations. Add to that, royals, celebrities and socialites from the Middle East, to the US, even China and Western to Eastern Europe.

A celebrity in his own right featured in America’s Next Top Model, he also has received accolades in both regional and international fashion circuits, from winning his People’s Choice Award at the Dubai Fashion Week in 2010, Breakthrough Designer Award at the WGSN Global Fashion Awards in New York in 2011, to earning a seat as a senior member of the esteemed Asian Couture Federation and receiving a Pamana ng Pilipino Award under the most distinguished 2014 Presidential Awards for Filipinos Overseas, Michael wears is one UAE Couture King who has made it, truly, on a global scale.

Highly regarded in the fashion industry as a genius creative who designs lavish ethereal gowns that perfectly embrace the feminine form (now, also the masculine), with his display of flamboyance and extravagance in his fashion shows perfectly suited to the haute couture world, the ‘impalpable’ M5 states, “To say that it is a steady, unfettered climb to my goals is an understatement. I simply work hard, keep abreast and strive to be on top of my game. It is very challenging and yet, it certainly is a charmed life.”

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Nowhere is the special role and capacity of women in facilitating cross-cultural understanding more apparent than in the case of the group FLAG (Filipino Ladies Association for Growth).

Composed of the Diplomatic Ladies of the Philippine Consulate General of Dubai & the Northern Emirates, and supported by a select group of prominent Filipina leaders, FLAG was founded by Mme Lu Cimafranca – wife of former Phil Consul General Head Hon. Frank Cimafranca in 2014, and is now lead by Mme Yasmin Balajadia-Cortes wife of current PCG Consul General Hon. Paul Raymund Cortes. Mme. Cortes explains, “FLAG’s main objective is to enhance the role of Filipino ladies in the UAE through active participation in community events. It focuses on women empowerment and the advancement and the promotion of Philippine culture. We hope to raise awareness among the various ethnic communities in the UAE about what the Filipina woman can contribute and achieve in this country’s multicultural landscape.”

Speaking on the special role of women in the community, particularly the contribution that diplomatic spouses bring to the table, Mme Cortes elucidates, “Spouses provide the foundation for diplomats to keep grounded especially when the world of diplomacy and consular issues gets rough. In addition, we complement their work plans most often in socials and cultural events. There are many instances where the informal and back channels work more effectively than the formal and official route and this is where the spouses play a decisive and crucial role.”

Last year, FLAG spearheaded the Terno Ball in the UAE which brought Filipino trailblazers and the diplomatic community together. The group has also provided support to some charity organizations. Continuing on, Mme Cortes shares, “We will be working on the Filipiniana Ball which we hope could showcase the uniqueness of Filipino fashion and highlight the renowned creativity that have produced superb talents like Michael Cinco, Furne One, and Ezra Santos. We also hope to plan more activities in the next couple of months.” She also adds that FLAG will also pursue worthwhile advocacies back home especially those related to disaster relief and support for less-privileged children.

“We are excited to work with everyone here most especially in projects that would uplift the image of the Filipino in the emirates. Rest assured, I will continue playing an active role in ensuring that our women are empowered and confident of what they could contribute in this part of the world,” she concludes.

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