Montoya's passion for fashion started at a tender age when he would see the beautiful gowns worn by Disney princesses. "I have always been a big Disney fan. Their beautiful animated princesses have inspired me to create clothes. Any animated character that wears flamboyant pieces became my obsession," he discloses. 

"When I was four, I would always draw illustrations and play dress up through paper. I made paper dolls from scratch," he adds. 

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Unlike any other child, Montoya easily became aware of the path he wanted to pursue for the rest of his life. He realised that the people responsible for the clothes he used to adore on-screen were artists and fashion designers.

"That's who I wanted to be. I grew up and learned that the wardrobe I fawned over was made by fashion illustrators and designers. So I quickly researched about the job; while doing so, I stumbled upon shows like America's Next Top Model. I also followed creative female artists like Lady Gaga, Madonna, Rihanna, and more."

The artist describes his works as "wearable avant-garde" that play with hues, textures, volumes, and draping. "Most of my designs were inspired by nature. They were also inspired by McQueen who played a big role in my design path because his pieces made me more creative and confident. Today, I get to dress A list celebrities in the Philippines and see my works on television screens and concerts," he shares.

"When it comes to dressing my regular clients, I play safe by using combinations of tones, fabrics, and textures that are easy on the eyes. Sometimes I focus on fabric manipulations," he adds. "Most of my clients are politicians, entrepreneurs, and women who like to keep their outfits toned down, so I design pieces that are 'wearable' every day."

According to Montoya, the daunting world of fashion and arts is something that he is no longer afraid of because of the trials and tribulations he had gone through and conquered in the past.

"It is really hard to enter the industry, you need to work hard on personal branding and connections," he tells Tatler. "My fascination with arts helped me to slowly climb the ladder. I can even recall the phase when I really wanted to be part of it instantly. I would always volunteer and assist series of fashion shoots, illustrate art for a bunch of designers, and do anything that has to deal with creative works."

Montoya's experiences—both the good and bad—helped him dole out wisdom that he wants to share with budding artists. 

"I would advise aspiring designers to always stick to their aesthetics but do not be afraid to step out of the box because you will be able to learn more about yourself out there. You will really face a lot of challenges in this industry, but do not be afraid to make mistakes. It will lead you where you're meant to be and what's yours will always find its way to you," he concludes.

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