‘Divine Romanticism’ inspired from the 1920s by Ezra Santos

The Manila-born designer comes full circle as he shares with his compatriots the qualities that make him one of the major proponents in the recognition and advancement of Filipino talents in the international fashion arena. He creates haute couture masterpieces that are at par or even surpassing his contemporaries in the international fashion arena, in terms of quality, silhouette, cut, adornments and meticulous attention to details. A few years ago Ezra opened his boutique in Dubai.
He has effectively put a stamp to his distinction as one of the major forces and influences in fashion in the Middle East/Gulf region, as he regularly gets invited to major fashion exhibitions worldwide. Check out the latest Ezra Santos Collection here!
-          What is fashion to Ezra Santos?
Fashion is a form of art which reveals the true self. It is an art that inspires every individual to express their creative talents.

-          Your gowns and styles are very unique and creatively designed, where do you get your inspiration from?
For inspiration, I look up to the celebrated French designer Erte – whose art deco influenced creations from his heyday in the 20’s through to the 60’s can be seen in fashion pages today. I also profess my admiration for Christian Lacroix for his unique use of color and unimaginable combinations, as well as John Galliano for his undisputed drama on and off the runway and the original Monsieur Christian Dior. They inspire me because of their very unique fashion senses.

-          Do you have a muse?
My mother who I always consider as the epitome of style and substance is my perennial muse..

-          If you would choose one Hollywood superstar to be the face of Ezra Santos fashion, who would it be? Why?
Angelina Jolie, she is so powerful and anything she endorses sells.

-          Describe the woman that would fit perfectly in an Ezra Santos gown..
A woman of substance and elegance

-          Why did you choose Dubai as your destination?
Dubai has given me the opportunity to have my own atelier. I do love the different cultures and traditions here and mostly, I am inspired by the Emirati women to love fashion more because of their being passionate and unique.

-          Tell us about your latest Fall/Winter 2013 collection.
COLLECTION TITLE: Divine Romanticism
INSPIRATION: Art Deco / Art Nouveau - A modern take of 20’s golden era of fashion where glamour, beauty and art reigned supreme
MATERIALS / FABRICS USED: Lots of tulle, crepe, lace and crystal embroidery

-          What shall we expect from Ezra in 2014?
I am planning to put up my own pret-a-porter line …

-          Which piece from this collection took the most work, thought and effort?
The whole collection is painstakingly made by lots of hands

-          What is your advice to Dubai ‘fashionistas’?
Create a style that will define you as a person. Always remember, “Less is more”

-          What is your most memorable fashion moment?
The last season of Fashion Forwards, it was a standing ovation. Thanks to the music of Ariel Lozada, my Director.

-          How do you unwind?
Go to the spa and have a great massage and having dinner with friends with a bottle of good red wine.