On Aug. 25, Inquirer Red Magazine, will be holding the second of its fashion series, this time a solo show featuring Maureen Disini, her first.
Last year it showcased the works of Gian Romano.
The fashion series wants to help local designers through shows that will highlight their talent and skill. It is important that they are given solo shows so the audience can focus and familiarize themselves on the designer’s aesthetic.
Disini studied fashion design at the Istituto di Moda Burgo in
Milan, Italy, and took an additional course on fashion business at Istituto Marangolni’s Paris campus. She also enrolled at Central Saint Martins in London.
In a short time she has made a name in local fashion for her draping, attention to detail and figure-friendly silhouettes.
A stylist for 8 years
You used to be a stylist. When did you realize you wanted to become a fashion designer?
I wanted to learn a new skill after being a stylist for eight years. The moment I decided was when I interned as a dresser in Milan Fashion Week. I said to myself, “Hey, this is so much fun. It’s not too late to be a designer.”
How do you assess your growth as a designer so far?
I believe I’m still learning each day, but I have to say I’m now more confident in talking and dealing with clients.
Who are your inspirations?
My family and my closest friends—the people I’m surrounded with continue to inspire me.
What’s your favorite decade in fashion?
My favorite decade is the golden age of couture from 1947-57 when it thrived in Paris. This was a period of remarkable creativity, exemplified by such designers as Pierre Balmain, Cristobal Balenciaga and Hubert de Givenchy.
What does travel mean to your work?
Traveling the world is everything to me! I take this time to draw inspiration and use the opportunity to source different fabrics and learn about textile markets from every corner of the world. I’m always excited to show my clients what I’ve purchased for them.
What inspires you most today?
Impressions from my travels.
What’s on your mood board?
Recent photos from my trip in Alhambra, and cutouts from back issues of Porter Magazine.
When you design for a client, what’s your nonnegotiable?
Not really a non-negotiable issue, but I always hope that they hear me out and are open to my ideas.
Elegance is key
Have you ever declined a client?
I feel awful having to decline, especially clients whom I work with time and again. I turn down clients only when I have a full plate.
Who are your favorite clients?
I have a handful but top of mind would be Alex Eduque, Neny Montinola, Anna Villaraza and Catherine Carballo from Dumaguete. They are all a joy to work with.
You get a lot of brides. What advice can you give them?
Somehow, I attract a lot of bridesmaids and mothers of the bride or mothers of the groom. I normally suggest a classic aesthetic. Will their dresses still look relevant in, say, 10 or 20 years? I always tell them that elegance is key.
What are makes a well-dressed woman?
Tough question!
What fabric is the most forgiving?
Stretch materials such as soft tulle, techno and jersey are the most forgiving.
What’s the worst thing a woman can wear?
A bad attitude.
New collection
How long did it take you to design your new collection?
It took me a few months as I had to collect my fabrics and trimmings from London, Madrid, Paris and Thailand.
You’ve been known for draping; what new techniques will you be exploring for this show?
I’ve expanded my range this time as a designer, using different fabrics and silhouettes and, surprisingly, now I have only a few draped pieces. My style must be evolving.
In designing this collection, did you have a person or woman in mind?
I was thinking of this Spanish lady I came across in Granada. She was dressed in traditional costume, riding a horse. I was mesmerized by her.
