A modern classicist amidst fashion’s surrealist trends, Ricardo Preto moves against the tide armed with his old school upbringing and Old World charm. Monique Madsen gets to know the designer as he talks about his latest muse, Katrina Tantoco-Lobregat, and all things that spark his inspiration.
Ricardo Preto is all about easy elegance. Well-known for his brand’s roster of monochromatic looks and impactful colour blocking, the steezy Portuguese designer produces an interesting mix of contemporary pieces injected with ultra feminine details. In the world of fashion where the pendulum swings from one extreme to the other, Preto’s cool tones and clean lines serve as a much needed palate cleanser. Both future focused and traditional, he merges these two attributes when designing; he is meticulous, a trait evident in his keen attention to detail, and considerate of the modern lifestyles of the men and women he dresses. “It is important that the clothes work for almost everybody and can transition, with few alterations in styling, from day to night for whichever occasion,” he says.
Philippine Tatler: You mentioned Manila feels like home to you now. Can you tell us more about your work here in the Philippines?
Ricardo Preto: My trust in the CEO Donnie Tantoco and of course Rustan’s president Madame [Nedy] Tantoco’s strong leadership was fundamental. Rustan’s history and good taste in bringing the best brands in the market is something that we don’t see every day and I feel I accepted the right challenge at the right time. The future, the next step, that is always on my mind. Right now, I am focusing on next summer’s collections for Rustan’s and starting to work on fall/winter collections. I believe the future holds good things for me. I will continue to discover more of this great country, with so many beautiful things to see, and so many competent people to work with.
