Tags: Designer Fashion Lifestyle Blog Lifestyle Blogger Lifestyle Blogger in Manila Philippines Maizy Colleen Maizy Colleen Tan Meg Hernandez Meghann Hernandez Metro Mom Mommy blogger Mommy blogger in Manila Philippines Philippine Fashion
Getting into the fashion industry takes a lot of guts. One thing I admire about this budding Davaoeña designer is her undaunted determination and courage to face the uncertainties and stay faithful to her dream — to be a successful designer. Even in her mid-twenties, Maizy Colleen Alvarez Tan has already woven her future in the business with an impressive following and clientele. She shows a lot of promise and she is sure to continue making waves with her talent, creativity and vision.
From paper dolls to make-believe ball gowns, Maizy already had the makings of a designer even back when she was little. “As a child, I used to make my Barbie doll’s dresses out of handkerchiefs and scotch tape. I also collected paper dolls and drew cut-out dresses for them. I’ve been intrigued by fashion for as long as I can remember.”
Eventually, this so-called pastime caught up with her as Maizy got older. She got into sewing and pattern-making. “I hand stitched my first ever dress overnight. I’d say, it felt like a Cinderella moment. My parents were so amazed to see me in a design straight off a magazine. They bought me my first portable sewing machine shortly after that and I went on to make my own clothes. I even made my own prom dress and debut ball gown using that same machine. Sewing brought me so much joy — I feel at peace and less stressed.”
Photo courtesy of Maizy Colleen Tan
“I wanted to study fashion and become a designer, but I felt that it would disappoint my family as they wanted me to become a nurse. It didn’t really bother me at first, but halfway through college life, I felt like I wanted to pursue something else. I also didn’t want to quit on what I promised my parents. So, I decided to finish my course and became a registered nurse. After which, I finally got my family’s go signal and I followed my heart and enrolled myself in a fashion design school. It felt good to go back to your first love.”
A year after Maizy graduated, she immediately got her hands busy. “I started accepting orders for custom-made dresses last August 2014. It was all about timing. It was close to the start of the holidays, which also marks the season for big family gatherings and weddings. And prom came after that. I’ve had the greatest pleasure of meeting new clients and seeing them leave with smiles from ear to ear. The most rewarding feeling is when I know that I made someone feel beautiful even for a night.”
Style philosophy
“I’m not much into trends,” explains Maizy. “I like marrying romantic designs with timeless sophistication. A signature piece from me would probably be something with lace or embroidery in a classic silhouette of subtle elegance. I’m not so much into shiny and sheer fabric or heavy beadwork. I prefer to highlight my client’s natural charm.”
“I think the modern woman is very practical and style savvy. I’ve had clients asking me to make them classic, silhouette pieces in neutral colors, all of which they can wear to different occasions. Say, a black tea-length skirt which can go from day to night by just simple change of accessories, shoes and bags or by adding on a blazer. Nowadays, the modern woman goes for smart purchases than impulse shopping.”
Photo courtesy of Maizy Colleen Tan
Wardrobe tips
“If I could give advice to any woman of today, I’d give her these top 3 quick-fixes,” shared Maizy. “First, wear something comfortable and not obscene. Wear the right clothes for the right occasion, because being well-dressed is a sign of respect not only to others, but also for you.”
“Wear something basic and inject an ooze of originality. Individual style can come with how you fix your hair or how you accessorize. It can also be very distinct, how you feel or think (e.g. edgy, grunge, sweet, etc). However you wear your clothes, always add a bit of YOU to it.”
“Lastly,” adds Maizy, “wear confidence over your shoulder and cap your everyday look with a smile. I believe radiance comes from within and every woman should let her inner beauty shine through.”
For custom-made dresses, contact Maizy Colleen via maizycolleen@gmail.com. You can also check out her sample work and designs by following @maizycolleen on Instagram.
Photos courtesy of Maizy Colleen Tan.
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Story published on my newspaper column in Edge Davao.
