THE IMPALPABLE DREAM
MICHAEL CINCO’s intricate beadwork, masterful engineering, and unique sense of style is a crystal clear reflection of his neverending pursuit for sartorial perfection
It has been 8 years since Michael Cinco’s stylish creations graced the runways of the Red Charity Gala. That year, Michael showcased a collection inspired by the gods and goddesses of Greek mythology. His debut was his first solo show, with draped and beaded gowns in warm and fiery shades reminiscent of magnificent Santorini sunsets leaving guests in awe of his impeccable skill and keen attention to detail. No wonder Kaye Tinga and Tessa Prieto-Valdes were only more than happy to see the Dubai-based designer back in Manila for this year’s gala of epic proportions.
Michael has nothing but nice things to say, “It feels great. For me to be in the Red Charity Gala—it is one of the biggest achievements of a designer. When you are selected to showcase your collection during the gala night, it means you have arrived. You’ve made it.” With nine other designers of local and international fame, he is set to present another collection at this year’s much-awaited event. “I’m presenting a collection that I just did for Ballet Philippines, but I’m trying to change the look. I was inspired by my recent trip to Jaipur, India—the beautiful culture, the beautiful colors,” he gamely shares.
Inspired by his travels, Michael’s creative process is a visual sojourn that ends with ethereal designs and dresses beyond his wildest dreams. His recent trip to the subcontinent was his first. He recalls, “I was already inspired by India even before. I already did a collection based on the styles of India’s Maharajahs and their jewels. But I have never been to India. It was my first time to visit two months ago when I traveled alone. And I was surprised of how it was really magical. A very enchanting country with a beautiful culture.”
But aside from inspiration, Michael reveals an important ingredient in his recipe for success, “For me to be inspired in everything, you have to be in love. Love inspires people to create beautiful things. I’m always in love with everything.” The tale of the young boy from Samar who once dreamed of making dresses for royalty is one that is truly touhing. And regardless of his accomplishments, nothing beats the sense of fulfillment specially after being able to help a lot of other people, who like him before, dream of a better life. “I think that’s the main thing. When you succeed in the thing that you do, you give back to the people. That’s what charity means to me,” he says.
A few weeks ago, Michael partnered with Ballet Philippines in another philanthropic venture where he presented 50 dresses for the 50th anniversary of the dance company. “It feels good to help people while showcasing your collection here in the country because I’m not based here,” he adds.
Michael cannot hide his excitement for the show’s wonderful advocacy. “I’m expecting people to donate to the cause of the Red Charity Gala and of course, have a good time.” He praises the incredible talent of Kaye and Tessa in staging the event year after year. The two women have become good friends to him. Hence, their request for him to come back and join the other artists for this year’s event was something he could never say no to. The Red Charity Gala, after all, has paved the way for many young designers like him before to have a taste of the spotlight and in turn, give them the confidence to be successful in the fashion industry.
His participation is a manifestation of his beliefs and principles when it comes to a life of purpose and meaning. “When you enjoy and lead a happy life. And similar to the Red Charity Gala, when you do something for a cause and you help people, and you have a good heart to share. It’s doing something beautiful and giving back at the same time,” he explains.
In our last conversation several months ago, Michael recounts his quest for the impalpable dream. It is a mission that has kept him grounded and ever-imaginative at the same time. It is a wild chase that he continues with unwavering dedication and determination. His creed if you may call it. He grins and says, “I call it the impalpable dream because it’s a never-ending dream. It’s an endless search for that one thing that you really want. My impalpable dream encourages people to not set limitations for themselves. To believe in everything. To believe in yourself. To believe in God. Especially if you really want to do it.”-PG
“When you succeed in the thing that you do, you give back to the people. That’s what charity means to me.”