HOMECOMING KING
Globally-acclaimed and locally-celebrated LESLEY MOBO returns to champion a cause that hits close to home
Regardless of the countless accolades, the enviable experiences in the industry, and the outstanding education he has had, Lesley Mobo is humble in conversation—never to talk big about himself or draw attention to his muchcelebrated career. The man who left the country to study fashion overseas and create a name for himself has come back to support Kaye Tinga and Tessa Prieto-Valdes’ Red Charity Gala, bringing in his distinct aesthetic.
Lesley admits that being invited for the first time was a total surprise for him, “I was surprised because I’m not really a gala designer. Unlike most designers who have their own atelier, I work for American and European brands. I’m more experienced in corporate fashion. I was surprised, but I was honored as well to do something creative and special for the Red Charity Gala.” Through the years, his relationship with Tessa and Kaye has grown from mere clients to trusted friends. A special kind of friendship as he says. His attendance in this year’s talented roster is a testament to his commitment to the winsome women’s cause.
Charity, after all, is something that Lesley is passionate about even during his years as a student. And as an artist, he sees his art form as a venue to do good and give back. He says, “It’s quite awful to think that we as artists create things only for the privileged.” It is, as he says, within his principles to see to it that the beneficiaries of his work are not limited to a select few, “I think art and charity should go together.”
The prestige of participating at the Gala is something that Lesley treasures. “The Red Charity Gala is an aspiration for Philippine designers like me. When you get invited to do it, it feels like you have contributed significantly to the industry. It’s an honor, really,” Lesley says, smiling. To do it for the first time was an exciting experience, but to do it the second time around was a totally different story. “I actually didn’t know what to do. I think I was the last person who agreed to do it. I initially didn’t want to do it,” he admits.
A change of heart followed eventually, realizing that the mission of the Gala was something he closely relates to. “It’s getting stronger. Upon talking to Kaye and Tessa, [I found out that] they’re taking it to another level by supporting young designers especially those who come from the provinces. That’s why I’m really for it,” Lesley says. And to be a part of the elite group of designers invited, it all the more convinced him to bring his A-game to the charitable gathering. He explains, “Being the youngest designer, I look up to them (the other designers). When I was young, some of them were already doing admirable work. To be part of the ten with them, I just feel so honored.”
Lesley talks about his collection, “I am inspired by film noir. Imagine lost worlds, glamorous times. I liked the mood, I liked the silhouettes. So with this collection, I just focused on creating slim silhouettes and sleek proportions.” Kyle (Kaye’s gorgeous daughter), dazzles as his muse for the cover shoot, dressed in a frozen salmon pink gown by the designer. Graceful with every pose, it is evident how much she admires the excellent craftsmanship involved in the creation of the designer’s masterpiece. This is the power of fashion. It inspires, excites, and moves people. “It is a business, but it is also an art form,” he shares wittingly.
Acknowledging that the opportunities to excel in his art form are rare and few, Lesley expresses that perseverance and a sense of maturity are key in following one’s dream, “It takes a lot of time to find out what really is your gift. I think it’s difficult for young designers especially now because they get a lot of pressure at a young age. And unfortunately, here in the Philippines, with economic status some people tend to do certain things which they’re not really good at or they’re not really gifted with.”
Lesley’s gift, aside from his undeniable talent, is that of empathy and purpose. His return marks not only his passion for the cause but also his dedication and commitment to his personal ethos—to use whatever gift you have and share it in whatever way. This, for him, is a meaningful life. He ends, “Doing things like this justifies that.” -PG
“The Red Charity Gala is an aspiration for Philippine designers like me. When you get invited to do it, it feels like you have contributed significantly to the industry. It’s an honor, really ,”