Out of this world
MANILA, Philippines - Three years ago, fashion design student Nina Gatan’s creation — a tailored metallic pantsuit with a duo-tone jacket — landed on the cover of Preview magazine’s November 2012 issue, worn by actress Marian Rivera. Fresh from her win at Preview magazine’s Emerging Fashion Talent Awards, the budding designer was poised for a meteoric rise to the top. A creative slump led to her temporary disappearance, however, resulting in a two-year hiatus. Fast forward to today and Nina’s back on her feet: a little bit wiser, a little bit stronger, and with a stellar comeback collection to boot.
Working around the theme of celestial skies, roses and feathers, Nina Gatan returns to the local fashion scene with a six-piece set entitled Paradiso. From iridescent brocade frocks to pleated organza pencil skirts to boxy metallic tops, the Divine Comedy-inspired clothing showcased the young designer’s deft hand at tailoring, and her keen attention to texture and silhouette. YStyle sits down with Gatan and gets a first look at her shiny, new threads.
YSTYLE: Give use a brief overview of your fashion design career.
NINA GATAN: I studied patternmaking in FIP and dressmaking in Slim’s Fashion and Art School. I was fortunate to be part of Preview’s Emerging Fashion Talent Awards in 2012. I went back to Slim’s again last year and studied “British Bespoke Tailoring: The Newham Method.”
Tell us about your collection. How did it come about?
Honestly, I’ve been in a creative plateau for a long time until Dante Alighieri’s Paradiso broke me out of my design rut. There is recurring theme in the book, which is a “love that moves the sun and other stars.” The idea of love itself can compel one, as a designer, to move forward. I used French brocade with feathers imprinted on it, and fabrics that resemble celestial skies and nebulas.
Where do you get your design inspiration?
Besides literature, I love looking at vintage pictures of couture dresses in the making, especially on Pinterest.
What are your plans for the label this year?
I’m currently working on a wraparound blazer-corset dress for my next campaign. I’m also designing my first bridal gown this year, something I’m really excited about, as it’ll help my label branch out.
What is your honest take on Philippine fashion?
The local fashion industry may be small — almost everyone knows who’s who — but there are a lot of role model designers to look up to. Experience and maintaining your vision is something I’ve come to appreciate and respect as an emerging designer. It’s very humbling.
Who is your muse?
I’m still searching for a real-life muse but I adore Li Bingbing, a Chinese film actress.
Describe the Nina Gatan brand in two words.
Power and grace.
Photos by CENON NORIAL III
Styled by MJ BENITEZ
Makeup by DON DE JESUS OF MAC COSMETICS
Hair by RAMIE S. DELFIN OF BENCH FIX
Modeled by EMILJA OF ELITE MANILA
Stylist Assisted by JAIME ABELLA
Clothes by NINA GATAN. Boots from CHARLES & KEITH.
Barrettes, sunglasses, and magnifying glass from AC +632
