Page 9 - Real Style March 2018

pines, his reward was a trip to Paris to “see the real world of fashion,” as One tells us. But it was the Big Apple that initially attracted this creative spirit. After Paris, One found himself heading to New York City to train under fellow Philippines-born designer Josie Na- tori. The seasoned Natori, who hails from Manila and established her eponymous label in 1977, is known for her lingerie and accessories. For One, this particu- lar apprenticeship offered a glimpse at the backstage commercial world of the fashion industry.
“It was a good experience. For me before, fash- ion was art and making beautiful dresses. But when I went to New York, it opened my eyes. It’s also about business. At the end of the day, you have to pay rent and pay bills,” he says.
But while New York City may have brought out the businessman in One, it was Europe that fuelled his artistic vision. The charismatic designer has been particularly inspired by his travels to Germany, Spain and Italy. In fact, he has even collaborated with su- permodel and Germany’s Next Top Model host Heidi Klum to dress the contestants on the show.
Perhaps it was this sense of adventure that even- tually led a young One from New York to his next destination: Japan. After a trip back home to the Phil- ippines, One was sent by his country’s government to enter another fashion design competition in Japan. He won the Japan Womenswear Award, and was con- templating a return to NYC. However, an impulsive suggestion from a pal quickly led him to Dubai.
“My friend said to me ‘How about visiting Dubai?’ I said ‘Okay,’ and I dropped by here and I loved it here,” he enthuses.
What was once “just desert” eventually became his stylish new home, and the birthplace of Amato. One ts into the fashion landscape of Dubai, which he describes as eclectic, with his emphasis on detail. “The craftsmanship—there’s a lot to learn! They love all the textures. For me as a designer, it’s like a learn- ing process every day.”
Aside from globe-trotting, One also turns to the world’s most famous design icons for inspiration. “I have lots of favourite designers—Alexander Mc- Queen, Gianfranco Ferré, Karl Lagerfeld. All design- ers have different aesthetics, so every designer is spe- cial,” he says.
So, what is next for the rapidly growing Amato Couture? One is still glowing after costuming Perry for her recent New Year’s Eve concert in Abu Dha- bi (about an hour and a half drive from Dubai). He informs us that he would like to dress actress Cate Blanchett, and take a brave new step into the world of ready-to-wear. But nothing is more special to One than his elaborate catwalks, where he can be a mas- ter of his domain. “While doing my own show, it’s all me, from the music to the lights to the dresses. It’s all about the brand.”
From the Philippines to New York City to Dubai, it’s clear that this designer has done far more than just craft gowns worthy of a princess. He has found a happy ending to his own fairytale—and a well- deserved one at that.
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