Drake Dustin Ibay, the founder of LVNA By Drake Dustin, gives Tatler a glimpse of his creative process, work strategy, and favourite looks
Drake Dustin Ibay, the artist behind LVNA By Drake Dustin, has always been fascinated with gemstones. When he was younger, he admits collecting rubies, sapphires, and citrines which he turns into different kinds of accessories for his loved ones to enjoy.
"I started collecting gemstones. I first tried creating intricate jewellery using the gemstones that I’ve accumulated for years and gave them as gifts to friends and family. I wanted to share it with others as well because I saw how they value it," he shares in an interview with Tatler. "So I asked myself, 'How can I broaden my skills and my passion for gemstones to something that people will have a high opinion of?' That is when my fascination for diamonds and all sorts of jewellery came in. Not only are they beautiful to look at, but also, each jewellery has its own properties that people tend to cherish endlessly. I wanted to give a classic craft a new perspective."
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According to Ibay, his inspiration is mostly drawn from the people he imagines wearing his signature pieces. "When I design a piece of jewellery, I get inspiration from the people who will wear it or who I think will wear my craft," he explains.
"I study them, their style, the way they look, and their respective personalities. I also try to create pieces using my personal preferences but I mostly consider how people are going to connect with my piece through their specific tastes or styles," he adds.
Client Presentation
For his clients, Ibay assures that he and his team of professionals are able to garner enough information before presenting their works. "There are a lot of factors to consider when presenting a jewellery or a piece to certain clients," he discloses.
"We don't just offer a specific piece to a client right away; we exchange ideas and try to get as much information on their personal choices. This way, we can suggest and blend our own aesthetics and personal recommendations," he says firmly. "Every jewellery will stand out if you are knowledgeable about the client's specific features. The challenge is to elaborate the important features of the jewellery to them. Our pieces are designed delicately and uniquely for us to be able to connect with our clients and to cater to their specific wants and needs."
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