After that time it became my dream to wear one of Joe’s gowns.
That dream finally came true in September 1999 when I first wore a Joe Salazar creation to the wedding of Jackie Ejercito. Now, more than just owning a Joe Salazar gown, I am fortunate and blessed that Joe has become one of my closest friends. Joe and I spend hours talking over the phone and through these conversations I have gotten a glimpse of the beautiful person Joe is. I consider him the best couturier of our time. I have seen how much time and effort he puts into every gown he makes. Every time I visit his shop I go straight to his work area because I know that there is where I will find him. I am sure that God will continue to bless him so that he can continue to create beautiful gowns. In honor of such a wonderful person and a great designer The Metropolitan Museum of Manila will present the Timeless Terno Ball: In Honor of Joe Salazar on November 22.
BEA ZOBEL JR., treasurer and trustee, Metropolitan Museum of Manila: I was lucky enough to see his earlier creations and I have to say I have never seen such beautiful intricate works of art on fabric. He is concerned about every detail and each gown is a labor of love. I am lucky to have some gowns made by him. Joe is a gentleman – a refined, cultured, intelligent, sweet man Joe is. He studies his client intensely. In our brief encounter he knew what suited me beautifully. He made me look sexy, elegant, attractive and stylish.
SHARON CUNETA-PANGILINAN, actress: Joe is always great. He doesn’t just understand a woman’s body, he loves it. He is particular about details and his dresses are exquisite. The fit is always perfect. He should be considered a national treasure. He is not only talented, but also sweet and wonderful.
President GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYO: Joe has made gowns for me that are works of art. Apart from the gowns I wore to my sons’ weddings, he made my last State of the Nation Address gown. He is a true artist.
LUCY TORRES-GOMEZ, TV personality, Philippine STAR columnist: Joe is a gentle, masterful artist – the likes of him are few and far between. He puts his heart and soul into whatever he creates and because of this he always comes up with something that is nothing short of a masterpiece. It is no wonder then why a Joe Salazar gown is for keeps.
CHING CRUZ, businesswoman: Joe Salazar’s creations are pieces of wearable art. His flair for elegance, his fine silhouettes and his modern take on traditional styles define him as a master of his trade. I admire him as a designer as well as a divine friend.
NIKKI TEODORO, housewife: Joe Salazar is a truly gifted designer with a big heart.
LULI MACAPAGAL ARROYO, First Daughter: I think his creations are wearable works of art which are world-class and distinctly Filipino. His attention to detail is evident in the quality of his designs, and you are confident his dresses will last a lifetime and can be passed on as heirloom pieces. Most of all, he is a very kind and accommodating person.
LINDA LAGDAMEO, housewife : I like the quality of his work. His detailed manner makes me feel that he puts a lot of effort into each artistic creation.