This New York-based designer aims to leave a mark not only in the global fashion scene but also in the worlds of music, culture and the arts
This article was originally published in Tatler Philippines September 2020 issue. Download it on your device via Zinio, Magzter, or Pressreader.
To say that Josie Cruz Natori has established a legacy in fashion is an understatement. Her bedazzling creations have sashayed down the runway for more than four decades, putting her name and the Philippines in the glittering, albeit competitive, global fashion design scene. Mostly hand-embroidered or embellished, her pieces continue to delight the discerning set to this day through her eponymous company, which has expanded far and wide since its inception in 1977, to include ready-to-wear clothing, fashion accessories, and home accoutrements, among others. Each piece she brings to the table radiates Natori’s distinct DNA: an east-meets-west design aesthetic and exquisite craftsmanship.
But what’s next for this design icon following these achievements? Knowing no boundaries, she says, “It’s a big word but I hope and pray I am able to be in a position to make a difference in my philanthropies,” adding that the only challenge for her to make this happen is being able to devote more time as she has a full-time business to run. “[I] also need to build stronger financial resources to be able to contribute meaningfully. I do the best I can with the time and resources I have,” she shares.
What many don’t know is that this fashionpreneur has another interesting side beyond the company she so worked hard for and built to an empire that it is today. At a young age, she already displayed a natural inclination for music, such that when she was only nine, she had the chance to play the piano alongside the prestigious Manila Philharmonic Orchestra. Not only that; her love for the arts and culture is undeniable. So it comes as no surprise that Natori became one of the purveyors of art, culture and music. Currently, she is on the board of the Asian Cultural Council (ACC) and the Orchestra of St Luke’s (OSL), an organisation that brings music to life with world-class performances and other initiatives that promote classical music. “As my focus is so much into the arts, I have great memories of memorable interactions with the artists,” the fashion designer says, citing that one of her most memorable experiences was when she played with the Orchestra of St Luke’s. “The gathering of over 40 Asian Cultural Council artists in Manila for our 35th anniversary was one of the most exhilarating experience ever,” she adds.
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It's a big word but I hope and pray I am able to be in a position to make a difference in my philanthropies.
When asked what inspires her, Natori says, “I am very inspired by the board members I work within OSL, ACC and Statue of Liberty ... the sense of philanthropy is awesome,” the latter referring to the Foundation that pursues a diverse range of educational and community-building efforts as well as preserves and honour two of America’s greatest landmarks: the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. In 2007, she was conferred the prestigious Peopling of America Award from the Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation. She also credits the members of the Rockefeller family, from whom she draws inspiration. “The dedication of the whole family to philanthropy opened my eyes and heart and has inspired me to emulate in my own little way,” the kind-hearted designer muses.
Who would have thought that someone like Natori, who admittedly did not always want to be in the fashion industry, and who challenged herself with a career in business rather than in music or the arts, would become the icon she is today—one with a purpose and a heart, definitely.
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