Fashion designer James Reyes is, indeed, an inspiration to all aspiring artists.  After 11 years of working in the advertising industry as a creative director, he left his comfort zone and pursued his dream. Although it was quite a challenge to get into another creative realm, he cherished every step of the path he took.

Gregg Centeno was a major influence in his big move: “He is a friend and I used to go to him for shirts, pants, and suits. I would hang out at his shop for a couple of hours just watching him receive clients and inggit na inggit ako. I swore that someday, I will design clothes as well. Then, along came the Mega Young Designers Competition. Gregg helped me with my collection for the finals night. I didn’t win, but that convinced me that I had something to offer to the industry.”

Being a graphic designer, his creations (ladies wear from daywear to bridal gowns) have always revolved around geometric designs and shapes. “I always look at fabric as a clean sheet of paper, which excites me every time I create something,” shares Reyes.

Celebrities such as Lala Flores and Angel Aquino are his first and loyal customers, giving him the confidence to carry on back then. 

And now that he is a bona fide name in the industry, Reyes is expanding his horizons, with a recently launched accessory line where pieces start at P 2,000.  Here is our brief and insightful interview on his one-of-a-kind handmade art pieces:

Manila Bulletin: Why make accessories?

I used to design fine jewelry on the side when I was in college. I would create pendants made of junk and sell them to my classmates. But, alas, I ended up in advertising and I did not get to design as much. Now that I’m a fashion designer, I have time to create a lot more things that I really want to do.

MB: How was it like making accessories?

It was strangely therapeutic. It takes several hours to make one, but I don’t mind.  Strange, because now my knuckles hurt and I have small cuts and scratches on my fingers.

MB: How was the design process like?

It’s like making a piece of art. I just go with what I feel is right. It’s like painting, adding a color here or a dangle there.It’s what makes each piece unique, with my creative stamp on each one.

MB: Why call them neckties?

This is where my marketing background comes in. They’re actually lariats that you can convert into long necklaces as well. I want working women to express their feminine side by wearing the necklaces with their office wear.

During this time of economic crisis, women work more and party less. In fact, a lot of women want the world to know that they mean business, too. It’s the perfect time to gear my designs for women who work and want to look powerful at the same time lady-like.

MB: What materials do you use to make them?

I use metal, glass, crystals, resin, wood, pearls, hematite, jade, junk, rings, key chains etc… Whatever catches my fancy, actually. Through the years, I have acquired so many accessories, so I decided to incorporate them as well. There are some beads and crystals from the ‘80s! So, I guess it’s also my contribution to saving the environment.

MB: Who was your inspiration for this project/collection?

Women who work hard and mean business. It’s the Michelle Obama era now. It’s the season of the new Power Ladies.

*For viewing and consultations for made-to-order pieces, call or text James Reyes at 0917-6236183 or send him an e-mail at  jvreyes@pldtdsl.net to set an appointment.