Back to dazzle

After a much-needed hiatus from the fashion scene, designer Boyet Fajardo is back. He has bigger business models (literally, a successful plus-size segment), a better disposition (a calmer, more compassionate personality) and a stronger faith in God (“Every time I work, I put Him first.”).

In the past year, Fajardo also focused on a marginalized sector of the clothing market. “I’m providing stylish clothes that are affordable na pang-masa, for your kasambahay and such. A lot of designers have no desire to design for the masses, because the typical route or road to popularity as a designer has always been to design for celebrities or personalities or models,” he said.

“I want to take the road less traveled and design for the market that’s often overlooked. And for that, I’m very proud. Can you imagine, your kasambahay can go inside my boutique and they can afford designer clothes? ‘Yun ang nagbibigay inspiration sa akin,” Fajardo added.

Designing for the masses and being one of the pioneers in addressing the needs of the plus-size market are a big factor in Fajardo’s successful comeback. But like any creative individual, he inevitably goes back to what makes his creative juices flowing.

ON Miguel Masigan is a suit inspired by David Beckham, but with a twist (above). Kristin Baconawa and Carmella Amds (above and left), on the other hand, don Fajardo’s dramatic pieces.

He started his career doing made-to-order dresses in 1986. By 1993, he gave way to his other inclination, which is doing ready-to-wear. But for his holiday 2019 collection, he goes back to his custom origins.

“I call my pieces ‘Holiday Dazzlers.’ They are suited for a red-carpet affair and a dramatic entrance. The silhouettes were made to embrace the female form and to enhance the feminine side of a woman,” he explained. “I used luxurious fabrics such as silk, gazaar, stretch satin and neoprene. I embellished my creations with crystals and different kinds of borealis.”

The men’s style, meanwhile, remains “very traditional and practical though with a twist,” Fajardo said. “Presently, the look of the male suit is inspired by David Beckham, which is widely accepted by the new male generation.”

The influx of supplies from foreign sources can have an impact. “But we cannot compete with China because that’s where we get our resources,” he said. “Labor here is easy, though with very strict quality control under the supervision of me and my team. We just have to explore what is good for our requirements. I was trained in other countries for my business and I’ve used it for my learning process.”

Besides looking to God for guidance, Fajardo also seeks strong business partnerships and relationships. “I’ve been working with Robinson’s and SM for decades. They’ve trusted me all these years and now, thanks to them, I’m in the biggest department stores nationwide — Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao. You have to build trust and credibility as a designer and supplier,” he proudly shared.

There may be thousands of younger designers joining the fashion frenzy every year, but Fajardo is confident of his capabilities.

“You have to keep yourself updated by doing your research. You can keep yourself abreast of the newest trends and inspirations with a click of a button. That wasn’t the case before, when you had to travel,” he said.

With more than 30 years in the business, Boyet Fajardo knows how to stay afloat.

“The design should be practical, wearable, timeless in nature. The designs that we make are meant to last if well taken care of, because of our love for our craft.”