You can spot her coming from a mile away, she is the sea princess, the one and only, Tessa Prieto Valdes.

Her wild, colourful, whimsical and playful fashion sense always causes a sensation and has become something that her many fans look forward to seeing. Valdes truly knows how to draw the crowds, not only with her over the top clothing, but with her rambunctious personality too. She is known to wear jaw dropping, intricate, and decorative pieces that are sure to be show-stoppers. From hats, coats, gowns, accessories, to live animals, yes animals... she goes the extra mile to complete her costumes! 

Fashion is a phenomenal way to express oneself. What one wears and how one looks can absolutely affect ones demenor for better or worse. People feel relaxed, confident and happy, when they're able to wear an attire that truly showcases who they are and makes them feel beautiful. Naturally, we wanted to know what fashion meant to the sea princess, and how she developed her style.

In theme with our fashion issue this March, we sat down with Valdes to get the low down on her larger than life style. 

Philippine Tatler: What does fashion and style mean to you?

Tessa Prieto Valdes: Fashion is embracing your own style essence and what you feel is visually appealing. For me personally, it is an expression of my love of colors and patterns with as many accessories as possible. It is about feeling comfortable and confident at the same time.

PT: Why do you love dressing up? Why do you love fashion? 

TPV: I love dressing up and creating fashion statements all the time, especially for themed parties!! I absolutely love to make my outfits very memorable. Dressing up and playing around with clothes allows me to get my creative juices going -- I love it! Fashion also challenges me to think out of the box and come up with unique outfits for every occacion.

PT: Have you always been interested in fashion and clothing?

TPV: My first love is interior design... fashion is next, but I guess, both fields are quite closely related. I love being creative and expressive. Being friends with lots of fashion designers helps keep me fashionable!

PT: How would you describe your aesthetic?

TPV: I woud say, it is over the top, unique, different and maximalist !

PT: What is casual wear for you?

TPV: Casual wear would be a dress with beautiful fabric, and bold patterns. 

PT: Do you have any style icons?

TPV: Hmm I’m not sure but I guess it would be a cross between Madonna and Lady Gaga!