From haute couture to street style, these five stylemakers are behind some of our favourite fashion icons across the globe
Fashion is not just about the clothes we wear; it’s about the visionaries behind the scenes who create iconic moments and redefine trends. From the runways of Paris to the streets of New York, a select group of Filipino stylemakers is shaping how we view fashion, one outfit at a time.
These five extraordinary talents—Liz Uy, Michael Cinco, Pam Quiñones, Mark Bumgarner, and Rajo Laurel—are more than just names in the industry. They are the creative forces behind some of the world’s most memorable fashion moments, influencing celebrities and everyday style alike.
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Liz Uy

Above Glamour meets sophistication in every look styled by Liz Uy
With her keen eye for style and talent for creating unforgettable looks, she burst into the local fashion scene as one of its most prominent stylists. Liz Uy began as an editorial assistant at a local fashion magazine, where she learnt the fundamentals of styling and the industry. This laid the groundwork for her eventual transition into celebrity styling and establishing her own company, Stylized Studio, which has glammed up stars like Liza Soberano, Sarah Geronimo and Pia Wurtzbach—setting fashion trends with sophistication and modernity.
Beyond her styling prowess, Uy starred in a reality show !T Girls, where her personality and individualistic style shone. Her trendsetting sensibilities and ability to reinvent herself also keep her at the cutting edge of the industry. As a prolific author and fashion editor, she inspires a new generation of stylists and fashion enthusiasts.
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Michael Cinco

Above Draped in opulence, Michael Cinco’s designs bring dreams to life on the red carpet
A staple on runways and prestige events, the name Michael Cinco resonates for its opulent designs. His dramatic gowns, as seen on stars like Beyoncé and Lady Gaga, radiate his signature ethereal and ornate style. Having launched his fashion line in Dubai in 2003, this style icon was given the Presidential Award for Outstanding Filipinos Overseas for his works that challenge conventional beauty standards.
His show in the first post-pandemic Arab Fashion Week featured models of all shapes and abilities, pushing the boundaries of beauty and inclusivity. At this year’s Cannes, the red carpet did not just feature Cinco’s signature style of lavish embroidery and voluminous skirts; the celebrated designer himself stole the spotlight.
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Pam Quiñones

Above Pam Quiñones blends masculine and feminine aesthetics, proving that fashion is an art form
She has been a stylist celebrated for blending masculine and feminine aesthetics for nearly two decades while standing out for her thoughtful approach. With a career that spans editorial styling, celebrity makeovers and brand collaborations, Pam Quiñones can seamlessly combine high fashion with practical sustainability. Above all, she leads conversations on where fashion should be going.
Through Qurator Studio, Quiñones nurtures emerging stylists; with Vestido, she promotes sustainable fashion through an accessible rental space. In Quiñones’ hands, fashion is neither frivolity nor simply looking good. Fashion is art; more importantly, it is the lens through which one lives. Now, that’s a style icon.
Mark Bumgarner

Above Each piece crafted by Mark Bumgarner celebrates the modern woman’s grace and individuality
His path to fashion was anything but conventional. Initially making a name for himself as a professional race car driver, Mark Bumgarner discovered his passion by pursuing what brought him joy. By focusing on sport, he realised he had been suppressing a side that longed to be creative. His creations have graced the runways of fashion weeks and film festivals worldwide, making him a sought-after name in haute couture. Celebrities like Pia Wurtzbach and Aishwarya Rai have shone in their designs, crafted to let the wearer take centre stage.
Bumgarner’s works often feature intricate beadwork, lavish fabrics and elegant silhouettes that celebrate the modern woman’s grace and strength. This was perfectly reflected when Michelle Dee donned his stunning black gown with intricate patterns inspired by the Kalinga culture and legendary tattooist Apo Whang-Od at the Miss Universe Philippines 2023. She went on to win the title and the Best Evening Gown award.
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Rajo Laurel

Above Rajo Laurel masterfully weaves Filipino heritage into modern fashion, creating pieces that tell a story
A force in Philippine fashion, Rajo Laurel is known for his exquisite designs that marry traditional Filipino elements with modern aesthetics. He started his journey with training at the New York Fashion Institute of Technology and Central Saint Martins. He founded House of Laurel in 2000, where his designs have since become synonymous with elegance and innovation. They are celebrated for their bold patterns, luxurious fabrics and meticulous attention to detail.
Today, the Rajo Laurel Group of Companies manifests his creativity and dedication. Outside of fashion, Laurel passionately advocates sustainability and the LGBTQ+ community. He has also received recognition in design and entrepreneurship. A celebrity in his own right, Rajo Laurel was also a long-time judge of Project Runway Philippines and Drag Race Philippines.
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