Cover Rhett Eala
Rhett Eala
1 / 1
From travel to art and everything in between, this creative genius draws inspiration from everything the eye can see
Ever since he saw his first copy of Vogue, Rhett Eala knew he wanted to be a designer. He started designing clothes professionally in 1990 when Rustan’s asked him to design for a house label called “Due”. Over the years, he brought beautiful pieces to the runways and in major beauty pageants. His most popular creations include his version of the chiffon poncho, which became a formal staple in the early 2000s and the map shirt that was worn by (then presidential aspirant) the late Philippine president Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino. He has also dressed up Maxine Medina, the Philippine representative to Miss Universe 2015, in a stunning national costume and several evening gowns for the competition. We catch up with the prolific designer to know more about his sources of inspiration and his favourites.
Read also: Modern Filipino Fashion: What Inspires Alegre's Techie Hagedorn to Create Beautiful Pieces?
Above Maxine Medina at the 2015 Miss Universe pageant, wearing her national costume by Rhett Eala
Maxine Medina at the 2015 Miss Universe pageant, wearing her national costume by Rhett Eala
1 / 1
Eala says, I draw inspiration from what I see. It could be a painting or an image or even a person crossing the street. Inspiration is everywhere.
I use all kinds of materials. I do not have any favourites. I do a lot of original prints. I also do a lot of fabric research, especially when I get a chance to travel.
My favourite cities are NYC for its energy and its wide-open spaces; Tokyo for its fashion and shopping; and Bangkok for the food and more shopping. I love the Tate Modern in London and The Metropolitan Museum in NYC. My most memorable trip was when my mum took me to see the US and Europe when I was 12. She wanted to show me the world before I lost my sight in my right eye.
Read also: The Rise, Fall, & Rise of Puey Quiñones
Above Rhett Eala's store in Powerplant Mall, Rockwell Center
Rhett Eala's store in Powerplant Mall, Rockwell Center
1 / 1
I source materials from the US, Thailand, Hong Kong and the Philippines. Recently I’ve discovered the Bagobo weaves of Mindanao or ikat patterns in natural dyes. To help me realise my designs, I have a painter among my staff, as well as beaders and embroiderers. Some of them have been with me for as long as 20 years.
On starting his own brand, Eala says: It was high time I started my ready-to-wear line. I think it is a natural progression if you have been in the business for so long.It has been a very difficult two years for us because of the prevailing uncertainty, but we must keep moving on and adapt to the current circumstances.
Read also: Kaayo's Founder Marga Nograles Shares About Promoting Mindanao's Weaving Traditions
Above One of Rhett Eala's designs
One of Rhett Eala's designs
1 / 1
On his free time, Eala would be seen enjoying documentaries like the Chef’s Table and Fran Lebowitz’s Pretend It’s a City directed by Martin Scorsese, both on Netflix. He also grew up watching classics like Orson Welles’ masterpiece Citizen Cane and Billy Wilder’s Sunset Boulevard. He also loves Woody Allen’s Annie Hall and David Fincher’s The Social Network.
NOW READ
Designer Michael Cinco Bares it All: His Humble Beginnings, Road to Dubai, and More
Joe Salazar: A Filipino Master Of Fashion
The Legacy Of Ramon Valera, The Father Of Philippine Fashion
Whether on assignment or not, Maritess is always on the lookout for off-the-beaten-path destinations as well as the yummiest finds in the Philippines and abroad. In 2020, she plunged into the black hole of Korean la la land. Follow her escapades at @matetreyes.
