Creating classy pieces

Contributed photo.
Contributed photo.

MARK Ortiz, the designer behind Marküs Alfrédo, is someone who surely knows how to make everyone look classy and fabulous in different occasions.

The Dabawenyo designer pointed out that dressing up accordingly is among the things he considers "non-negotiables." Thus, this has somehow become his motivation.

"I just want the people to dress well and I think that I can impose my authority on that aspect by putting it into my designs. I can influence people on how to dress accordingly. In good taste of course," he said.

Ortiz has been constantly complimented for having a good taste in fashion since he was a kid.

"Coming up with designs really takes a lot of time," he said. "Surprisingly, the oddest of places can actually give a lot of creative freedom that's needed for design inspiration. From religion, current events, sports, nature, culture, geography, world science and even from the garbage."

He believes that the ability to produce an amazing design depends on how he sees everything around him as a springboard for numerous fashion pieces.

When asked what makes his designs unique, he admitted that he has an eclectic taste in fashion.

"I do not follow societal norms of dressing up. I do not even follow conventional fashion trends. However, as a professional designer, I do know that I have to marry my own perspective with public demand," he explained.

Ortiz originally dreamt of becoming a doctor, but eventually realized that it was not for him. In 2011, he started making dress patterns for his doll collection.

"At that moment, I was just self-taught. I researched and studied how to make patterns and construct garments," he recalled.

With his awakened passion for fashion design, he decided to have a formal training.

"When I was studying fashion design, I had come to realize that 'This is exactly what I want to do with my life,'" he shared.

When it comes to the stiff competition, especially with the presence of haberdashery-like establishments that provide couture gowns and everything in between, Ortiz had this to say: "But I am not threatened by the competition as I do not limit myself and be pigeon-holed as a local designer that provides garments for special occasions only."

He noted that he has quite a bigger vision and mission, and that is to create and establish a company that offers ready-to-wear off-the-rack pieces for all sizes and occasions.

Although he has already started reaping the fruits of his determination, commitment and skills, Ortiz emphasized that he is a "success is progress."

"I am still a neophyte in the fashion world. I have a long way to go to prove the quality of work that my mind and hands can do in the field of fashion. My business is still young and my company still has a lot of plans that need time to be implemented. I would like to say I am a work in progress, and onward I go," he said.

(Photos used in this column were provided by Mark Ortiz.)

If you have special events and fashion tips to share, or just want to discuss about any fashion-related concerns with me, you are always free to reach me at mendoza.jennygrace@gmail.com.

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