Design Perspective

Up-and-coming designer Mica Santayana is the next big thing in local fashion. Currently an apprentice under one of the best designers in the country, Patrice Ramos Diaz, the creative ingénue is bent on making “real clothes” for women and making a mark in the industry. Her well thought-of pieces echo modern minimalism with a hint of detail. Her simple and well-constructed expressions of design exhibit a certain quirk as seen in pleats, cutouts and inserts that are far from the ordinary. Though her distinct detailing is worthy of style attention, there is a considerable sense of restraint that doesn’t go overboard. Neutral hues of blacks, grays and whites predominantly rule in her linear-like masterpieces that evoke wearability and effortless style. 

After a short stint in the corporate world, this Business Management graduate from Ateneo never thought her scribbles, doodles and sketches would lead to a career in design. In the pursuit of a career in fashion, she took up technical classes at La Salle College International and was working as a jewelry and bag designer at the same time. She currently manages operations for Patrice Ramos Diaz and is currently enrolled in Jojie Lloren’s draping class. Her passion for creativity thrives in her instinctive element born of emotion to create. An admirer of renowned designers Alexander Wang and Narciso Rodriguez, it is no surprise that her translations are reflective of modern design. Great importance in quality and workmanship is vital as the designer believes everything is in the detail.

Moving forward, the designer dreams of building a global brand reflective of contemporary fashion using indigenous materials. Driven by pieces that promote local textiles and materials modernized by design, the artist is a firm advocate of the survival of local weaving communities. Clearly, her vision is as seamless as her tailoring and her design expositions are as linear as her perspectives.

(E-mail the author at mymultiplechoice@yahoo.com)

Photography by MAU AGUASIN • Styling by BELLE CAMARSI and REG RODRIGUEZ • Makeup by BOBBY CARLOS • Hairstyling by DIMPLE CALLADA • Model: CRIS TAKAYA of Mercator • Clothes by mica santayana (0918-3370865) • Shoes by JANYLIN • Shot on location at Marriott Hotel Manila • Special thanks to Ms. Michelle Garcia and Ms. Vannah Santiago