Rhett Eala is best known for his “fashionalism”—the iconic “My Pilipinas” Collezione line that revived national pride and was worn by every proud Filipino from TV news reporters to even campaigning politicians.
After 20 years in fashion, Eala is venturing into men’s fashion with his own line, Rhett by Rhett Eala.
I decided to create my men’s label because… I felt like doing a different take on men’s clothes. More “couture,” like putting sequins on a sweatshirt and spikes on a tux.
A fabric I’m obsessed with now is… mud silk from China, because it looks like leather but feels like silk.
My favorite color palette for the season is… cobalt blue and indigo. I’ve been fixated on them for more than a year now. The colors can look masculine and strong.
If there is one valuable lesson I’ve learned as a designer, it’s… to learn from my mistakes, work hard and always give 100 percent.
Celebrities I love dressing up are… Celine Lopez, because she doesn’t take fashion too seriously, and James and Phil Younghusband, because they are elegant young men.
If I could collaborate with another designer abroad, it would have to be… Martin Margiela or Helmut Lang, because I’m a minimalist at heart.
A bath product I love, but can’t get here is… Aveda rosemary mint shampoo.
My signature scent in the 80s was… Polo by Ralph Lauren.
The perfumes I have on my dresser right now are… Jo Malone Orange Blossom and Comme Des Garcons No. 2.
The only hair stylist that can cut my hair is… Henri Calayag, because he’s my Mother Henri.
When it comes to bath products… I like trying out new products all the time.
When traveling, my toiletry essentials are… Oral B dental floss, Burt’s Bees Lip Balm with Mango Butter, Darlie toothpaste, Aveda rosemary mint shampoo, REN Grapeseed Jojoba and Shea Butter Body Cream.
Rhett by Rhett Eala is available at Nest, 40 Jupiter St., Bel Air, Makati City. You can follow him at Twitter with the handle @rhett3888.
Whether you want a new look or just a short trim, visit Eala’s trusted hair specialist, Henri Calayag, at G/F The Residences at Greenbelt, A. Arnaiz Ave. (Pasay Road), San Lorenzo, Makati City. Call +63920-9181880, +632-7991495, +632-7991888. Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
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