Editor‘ note: This video interviewer was shown before the start of Criselda Lontok‘s fashion show at The Peninsula Manila last Aug. 2, 2018.
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Interviewer: Hi, Criselda, is it okay if we follow you around and ask you a few questions?
Criselda Lontok: Sure, I’m just about to start my day.
Wow, your boutique here in Rustan’s Makati looks amazing. How many years have you been with Rustan’s?
Forty-four years. I started at the age of 12.
Impressive! What do you love most about working with Rustan’s?
The name Rustan’s is in a different class of its own; you feel proud just being a part of it.
What makes the Criselda Lontok brand unique?
It spells class and elegance.
What inspired your first fashion collection?
Let’s see… Jewel colors and bold prints.
What inspired your latest collection?
Youthful styles.
Dresses or separates?
Separates.
Prints or plains?
Prints, but my designs also feature plains.
What is your favorite item from everything you’ve designed?
Definitely toppers, because they sell the most.
If you’d ever have to wear one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Tops and pants. They are the most comfortable, but in jewel shades, no less.
What or who made you decide to become a fashion designer?
My beloved mentor, Mrs. Glecy Tantoco.
How did she influence you and your designs?
She had good taste and was practical in every way.
What was the best lesson you learned from her?
To pursue my goals.
Dina Tantoco: Hi, Criselda! Just wondering, who are your style icons?
Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly and Jackie Kennedy.
Classic choices.
Interviewer: What’s one piece of clothing you regret ever owning?
Absolutely none.
What’s your favorite color?
Fuchsia and turquoise. These two top the list.
Fritzie Bautista: Ms. Criselda, what’s your favorite piece of jewelry?
That’s a tough one! I love jewelry and accessorizing... chunky necklaces, bracelets, rings and earrings. They certainly enhance the clothes.
Interviewer: Diamonds or pearls?
As they say, diamonds are a girl’s best friend.
Gold or silver?
Gold
What’s your most prized family heirloom?
My mother’s picture. My siblings and I all have the same picture.
What is one thing that you cannot live without?
Two things: beautiful clothes and jewelry.
Aside from your phone and wallet, what are two other must-haves in your bag?
My rosary and makeup kit.
If there’s anything you spend more on, is it bags or shoes?
Definitely shoes.
What city do you regard as the fashion capital of the world?
Paris, no less.
What’s your mantra?
C’est la vie.
You mentioned your mentor is Mrs. Glecy R. Tantoco. Describe her in three words.
Determined, passionate and focused.
When and where did you meet Mrs. Tantoco?
She was a friend of my parents. I was introduced to her.
What do you like most about her?
Her passion for work and her thoughtfulness to me.
What is one best memory you have with her that you wish you could relive?
We enjoyed chatting nonstop — about life, about friends, and about work, too.
If she were still alive, what would you tell her?
“I love you.” Since she encouraged me to start my line, I would proudly tell her, “We made it!”
What’s your biggest fashion pet peeve?
Women following trends, which do not suit their personality.
What’s your favorite fabric?
Jacquard and brocade. Rich fabrics.
It’s your 35th year as a designer. How do you remain at the top of your game?
By continuously producing updated yet classic collections.
Okay, this will be my last question so I’m going to make it count. What would you like to say to everybody?
For all your support, thank you. Thank you to the Tantoco family, most especially to Mrs. Glecy Tantoco, for having given me the opportunity to be part of Rustan’s history. I wouldn’t be in this position if it were not for them. I appreciate all the support of my team, and of our patrons for their continuous patronage.
I hope you enjoy the show.