In the realm of fashion, where vintage Hollywood glamor meets modern sophistication, the designs of a Batangueño fashion designer are starting to make a mark.
RC Caylan, 41, started from being a dedicated follower of male pageants to a recognizable name in the international fashion scene.
Caylan's journey to becoming a distinguished designer started after completing his fashion design course in America in 2012.
He went on an internship in Los Angeles working with Joseph Domingo, a Filipino designer, which paved the way for him to showcase his capsule collection, 'Ruby.'
The turning point came in 2015 when Caylan started gaining recognition.
His clientele expanded to include A-listers and top international celebrities.
Fashion week after fashion week became his canvas in America where he dressed renowned personalities such as Carrie Underwood, Helen Hunt, and Marlee Matlin.
"Carrie Underwood picked up my design, it's not only once, [but] twice. [From] Carrie Underwood, I [also] have Helen Hunt, I have Marlee Matlin, she's a first ever Oscar winner na deaf, I [also] have the first ever African American country music singer," he said.
The road to conquering the fashion world was not without challenges, but with the support of fellow Filipino fashion designers in the United States, Caylan overcame them.
Every two years, he goes home to the Philippines to stay connected to his roots and to find inspiration from his homeland.
"You have to remind yourself where you've come from. You have to keep your feet on the ground, but as a Filipino, I always believe that Filipinos are very talented, [and] we are resilient," Caylan said.
Looking ahead, RC Caylan plans to establish his own fashion shop and ready-to-wear brand line in the Philippines.
His goal is not only to showcase his creativity but also to open doors for aspiring individuals who dream of making a mark in the fashion industry.