At the SCAD Museum of Art, Savannah residents had the pleasure of attending a discussion with Michael Cinco, the mastermind behind one of the world’s premiere couture houses. Miss Jay Alexander lead the conversation, covering topics from inspiration to determination with a behind-the-scenes look at Cinco’s atelier army suited to create each exquisite gown.
Clad in oversized sunglasses and a black suit ensemble, Cinco’s iconic silhouette resembled that of Wintour or Lagerfeld. Now instantly recognizable, it has taken many years and millions of stitches to shape his exclusive identity in the world of couture.
Growing up in the Philippines, Cinco began with a vision, inspired by the classic elegance of Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly. Fuelled by ingenuity, he attended Central Saint Martins fashion programme, later moving to Dubai to pursue his dream in the “haven of haute couture.”
There are several components which launched Cinco into a league of his own. “It’s important to have a staple in your work. My pieces are recognizable through color, especially dyed and crystallized ombre.” One of the keys to a successful brand is “creating work that is exclusively yourself.” Unconditional confidence paired with an inherent vision is the factor which gives designers an unrivalled identity. When asked which name he would wear to a red carpet event, he rightfully replied, “Michael Cinco, of course!”
Cinco’s words of wisdom are as valued as his gowns.
“Trust your instincts and listen with your eyes. Always be open to new ideas.”
Miss Jay made sure to provide exclusive insight to Cinco’s creative process behind closed doors. Getting started, as any creatives sympathize, is often the most difficult part, holding true for professionals like Cinco himself. “Before I make a collection, I want to change the whole thing.” After hours of rearranging and manipulating his sketches, the vision is enforced. The tedious execution process begins to take form, beginning with the assemblage of his team. Cinco’s atelier consists of 180 tailors, embroiderers, researchers and dressers, not to mention top-of-the-line marketing and media strategists.
You may be wondering, how on earth do women get into those extravagant gowns? Look no further than “a flatbed truck, a team of experienced dressers and only one drink.” Each design can take roughly 3-6 months, the sum of hours clocking in between 500-1000 depending on each commission.
In 2017, Cinco designed Victoria Swarovski’s wedding dress, sending the internet into a crazed infatuation. The cost of the gown averaged around $1 million with an 8 meter train embellished with over 500,000 Swarovski crystals. Additional clients include world-class celebrities such as JLo, Beyonce, Pia Wurtzbach and, of course, Lady Gaga. His work has been showcased at several Golden Globes, the Met Gala, Cannes Film Festival and Miss Universe Beauty Pageant to name a few.
As Miss Jay puts it, “a hard head makes for a soft ass.” Cinco encourages young designers to experiment, look and listen to the world around us. Demonstrate confidence in artistic vision, and when the opportunity presents itself, take the leap of faith.
Now through January 5, a collection of Cinco’s work will be exhibited at the SCAD Museum of Art, open to both students and the public.
Words by Anna Vescovi
Photo by Sebastian Mendez