THE LEGACY of FASHION

Almost 50 years in the industry today, Patis has not only built an iconic brand but changed the mindset towards going local

TESORO

WORDS BY CHIT L LIJAUCO

Ever since she wowed the Philippine fashion scene with an embroidered voile blouse inspired by a cigarette ad in 1972, Ma Beatriz Fabella Pamintuan-Tesoro or Patis had begun, unawares, to write a strong legacy. Clearly, she was no ordinary designer: she always looked back (late 18th to early 19th century Philippines and the American Colonial being favourite periods), championing Philippine style and transforming Filipiniana fashion into both casual wear and haute couture.

Almost 50 years in the industry today, Patis has not only built an iconic brand but changed the mindset towards going local. This she did by not merely transforming a sketch into a jaw-dropping outfit but by immersing herself in Philippine design, in her home and her personal style as well.

Today you can find her, at least once a week, in a quiet corner of Tesoro’s in Makati, hidden behind her eye-popping creations, all Philippine-inspired of course. Here she meets her clients, who continue to fill up her calendar, hungry for “Patis-attention,” which has gotten to be