In this week's issue of 'His World', Tatler Philippines EIC, Anton San Diego, catches up with world-renowned designer, Michael Cinco

In the current roster of Filipino international designers, there’s no one whose star shines brighter than Michael Cinco’s. Last year I interviewed him for a Tatler article. It was a talk filled with laughter, inspiration and naughty anecdotes that didn’t get to see in print. However, what was evident in our conversation was that Michael was living his dream. This dream started in Samar when he was but a child when, while his siblings were outside playing, he would be glued to the TV watching classic Hollywood films that set him on a course of fashion greatness. He has made his country, family and himself proud and has inspired others to keep pursuing their dreams. In Michael’s words, his “impalpable” dreams.

This is Michael Cinco, and this is His World.

Tatler Asia

How would you describe yourself?  

Meticulous, shy, and straightforward.

What are you currently watching, listening to, or reading? 

I’m currently watching Inventing Anna and listening to ANOHNI.

In case you missed it: Who is Anna Delvey? All About the Fake Socialite of Netflix's True Crime Series, 'Inventing Anna'

Favourite shopping haunts in the city? 

Fashion Avenue in Dubai Mall.

Favourite restaurants, bars, etc. 

AMAZONICO Dubai and SAL in Burj Al Arab.

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Tatler Asia

What are you currently working on? 

I’m busy designing my new Michael Cinco Pret-a-Porter line.

Where do you go to imbibe some culture or get some inspiration?

I travel to exotic places like India and from European royalties, and culture always inspires me.

What can’t you live without? 

My huge, dark sunglasses.

Your favourite travel destination?

The breath-taking landscape of Iceland and Norway

What’s on your bucket list of places you would like to visit? 

South America and Antarctica.

Where do you go to relax?  

Atlantis Spa.

How would you describe your style?

Simple, minimal, and always in black.

Tatler Asia

Your style icons? 

Audrey Hepburn and Cate Blanchett.

What’s in your fridge? 

Fruits, cookies and lots of chocolates.

What’s your hidden talent? 

I could sing opera … I wish!

A recent discovery is…? 

I’m 50 and loveless.

The five indispensable gadgets? 

Mobile phone, iPod, iPad, Camera and stylus.

Do you collect anything? 

Refrigerator magnets and pebbles from each place I visit.

Tatler Asia

What are your favourite websites, podcasts, Youtube, social media personalities? 

I always read vogue.com, watched The Voice and all the natural disasters on YouTube. . .and I love watching these boys dancing on TikTok.

What have you learnt from the pandemic? How have you changed in terms of priorities, mindset, etc.? 

During the pandemic, I have practised self-care and started seeking new strategies to counter the stress. I became closer to God to maintain my sanity.

Do you regret anything? 

Yes, I wish I had taken good care of my skin when I was young so that I won’t have bad skin, especially on my face.

What’s your current state of mind? 

I want to travel and enjoy my life.

Whom would you like to have over for dinner? (living or deceased)   

I would love to hear Maria Callas sings opera while having dinner with Audrey Hepburn.

See also: World Opera Day: 7 of the Most Iconic Operas in the World

What more would you like to achieve? 

I am satisfied and contented with what I have achieved in life, but honestly, I’m still looking for the real happiness in my life that seems so hard to find aside from fame and success.

What’s the most effective teaching you have learnt so far from life? 

My father always tells me to believe in God and myself and dream the 'Impalpable Dreams'…

Tatler Asia

To know more about Michael Cinco, follow him on Instagram: @michaelcinco or visit his website: michaelcinco.com.