MetroVan Independent News October 2015 | Page 12

12 MetroVanIndependent.com October 2015 lifestyle/entertainment Photo by Tolga Katas David Tupaz models in blue. On Spotlight David Tupaz, Filipino Gem, a Toast of Las Vegas! By Luisa Marshall Fashion designers are always looking for inspiration whatever season it is, but one thing is for sure, fashion designer David Tupaz seeks inspiration everywhere. The famous Filipino designer, based in Las Vegas, is bringing back old Hollywood glamour, dazzle, elegance and sharpness in his Fall couture at the recently concluded New York Fashion Week. “I’m trying to bring elegance back whereas a lot of designers are bringing a lot of avant-garde and very modern of which I have nothing against because I think the whole creative process means we have to always move forward. Inspiration goes back to old Hollywood. I think to this day even the European designers looked back to old Hollywood films to get inspiration for their new collection. I design clothes that you don’t wear everyday but the moment From left to right: David Tupaz, Taylor Swift and Luisa Marshall at the Golden Globes after-party. you wear it, you become the star,” David said. Not only does he have an eye for true beauty, but he’s also a visionary, a mentor, a master and a pioneer, making him the ultimate hero of the Las Vegas fashion industry. A total class in his honest perception of success, humility, principles and individuality beyond the glamour. I met David for the first time in Portland, Oregon where he showcased his amazing couture at the Philippine Runway in 2013. Then last year we met for the second time at the 71st Annual Golden Globe Awards 2014 ceremony in Beverly Hills. We spent several hours hopping from one after-party to another until we overdosed with fun and had no more energy to take selfies, drink, eat nor walk. We even hung out with famous celebrities like Taylor Swift, Jared Leto, and John Voight to name a few. And yes, I thought David was the coolest and the most down-to-earth celebrity fashion designer. He even invited my family to stay at his house if we ever visit Las Vegas. I thought… wow, that’s a Filipino hospitality trait shining from him! Luckily, I had an opportunity to go to Vegas again last August and David granted us an interview despite his hectic schedule. Leaving the busy strip to visit David Tupaz "I design clothes that you don’t wear everyday but the moment you wear it, you become the star.” - David Tupaz Couture was a breath of fresh air. Away from the hustle and bustle stood a calm, classy and impressive studio where most of David’s favorite couture was on display. Everywhere I looked was gorgeous and divine from the colors to the style, from the design to all the accessories. Here’s some highlights of my interview with David... Moving To Vegas “The beginning of 2010 is when I decided to completely move here. It’s because I saw potential. I lived in New York for a long time and then in 1997, I moved from New York to California. I started designing for different TV shows, for CBS like Malcolm in the Middle and Boston Legal to name a few." Continued ON page 13