Michael Cinco slams celebrities who refuse to pay Filipino designers
Michael Cinco | Screengrab, YouTube/Swanky Magazine
Renowned Filipino fashion designer Michael Cinco called out those celebrities and influencers who support international brands but tend to ask for free stuff or services from local workers or designers.
On his Instagram story, the Dubai-based fashion designer began his series of posts by asking a question to readers on why local celebrities and influencers tend to spend heaps of money on European brands instead of the Filipino brands that need more support.
“So Filipino celebrities and famous influencers are often seen wearing European designer clothes? It seems like they spend a fortune on these items just to keep up with the latest fashion trends. But have you ever stopped to think about why they choose to spend their money on these expensive European brands, rather than supporting our very own Filipino designers?” he asked.
Imagse: Screenshot. Instgram story, michaelcinco5
Cinco pointed out that these celebrities and influencers are willing to spend money on international brands but are not willing shell out for local brands, while some even have the audacity to ask fellow Filipinos to give their talent and efforts for free.
“It’s quite ironic how these celebrities proudly wear these designer clothes, but when it comes to Filipino designers, they suddenly want everything custom-made for them for FREE. It’s a sad reality that many talented and hardworking FILIPINO DESIGNERS have to face. They pour their hearts and souls into their creations, but are often undervalued and underpaid,” he argued.
Image: Screenshot. Instgram story, michaelcinco5
The 52-year-old esteemed designer urged Filipinos to love their own as a way of uplifting the Philippine fashion industry, which has the capacity to produce quality creations like international brands.
“As a society, we need to start recognizing and supporting our own local talents, including fashion designers. They have the potential to create beautiful and unique creations that can rival any European brand. So let’s give credit where it’s due and SUPPORT our Filipino designers. It’s time to break the cycle and uplift our own fashion industry,” affirmed Cinco.
“Every time some influencers and starlets ask me if I wanna do their wedding dress or red carpet dresses for collaboration or for FREE. I always tell them — What a wonderful life,” concluded the local fashion designer.
Image: Screenshot. Instgram story, @michaelcinco5
Image: Screenshot. Instgram story, @michaelcinco5
Cinco has made a name for himself in the international scene with notable clients such as Hollywood celebrities like Beyonce, Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Nicki Minaj, Carrie Underwood, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, Ashanti, Chris Brown, Tyra Banks, Jennifer Lopez, Sofia Vergara, and Naomi Campbell, among others.
