In this exclusive interview with MEGA, Puey Quiñones turns a lifelong dream into a remarkable reality by partnering with Rustan’s for a ready-to-wear collection
Dreams often serve as the catalyst for extraordinary creations. They are the potent force that propels individuals to transcend boundaries and turn aspirations into reality. For designer Puey Quiñones, the culmination of a lifelong dream became a reality when he joined hands with retail powerhouse, Rustan’s.
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Quiñones confessed that it had been a long-cherished dream to collaborate with Rustan’s. He emphasized the significance of destiny in achieving one’s aspirations. Quoting Naomi Campbell, “You cannot compete with destiny,” and indeed, it was destiny that brought him and Donnie Tantoco, President of Rustan’s, together at the same event. Their conversation sparked the realization that it was time to collaborate together.
The partnership between Puey Quiñones and Rustan’s gave birth to a collection comprising 30 pieces that are an embodiment of elegance, timelessness, femininity, and adaptability. With a vision that resonates with the contemporary woman, Puey Quiñones was ready to bring his dream to life.
The designer carefully selected his best sellers and pieces from his early years in fashion, intertwining them to craft a collection that embodies his unique identity. While retaining the essence of his couture work, he simplified the construction of materials to create a versatile range that would leave a lasting impact.
He expressed his love for the versatile infinity dresses—his signature creations. He emphasized their sustainability and practicality, making them an ideal choice for the modern, conscious consumer. “You can get [it] in different ways: it’s practical to wear, it’s practical to travel.” Sustainable fashion is paramount, and these dresses epitomize style with a conscience. “I think we have to be more conscious about sustainability.”
The collection meticulously integrated the inherent essence of the brand into each garment, deftly balancing the classic with the contemporary. It showcases a versatile spectrum of holiday-inspired colors, juxtaposed with the enduring purity of pristine white. The silhouettes thoughtfully capture the multifaceted nature of the modern Filipina, emphasizing her resilience and inner strength with subtlety and grace.
What sets this collection apart is the designer’s innovative spirit. Quiñones introduced babydoll dresses with puff sleeves and reimagined Filipiniana with fresh treatments. There was also the shirt that featured a quirky “burger-and-fries” motif. “I wanted fun, I wanted quirky.” His residence in LA inspired this pop culture infusion, adding a touch of playfulness to the collection. “Pop culture is big in LA, so I’m bringing the LA vibe to the collection.”
Even more special, hand-painted pieces, born from a collaboration with Bilibid prisoners, represent his commitment to sustainability and giving back to the community. “It’s not only me who earns from this, but also these prisoners.” It’s a message of second chances and the belief in redemption. “I believe in second chances. This is a perfect collaboration of second chances.”
But why Rustan’s? The designer had a dream to be at Bergdorf Goodman in New York, and in the Philippines, Rustan’s is the closest thing to Bergdorf. It’s not just about achieving a dream, but also about achieving it in the right place.
Finally, when asked whether this collaboration would be a one-time affair or a long-lasting endeavor, Puey Quiñones expressed his hopes for a forever partnership. “I hope to collaborate even more, and then forever—or at least, a very long time.” But he believes in making it last as long as possible. Dreams can indeed come true, and they can be even more beautiful than one could have ever imagined.
Photography EXCEL PANLAQUE
