Being part of the fashion industry (publishing, to be exact) for over a decade, I have gained many friends. Some are still in the business, and some took a different path—applying what they’ve learned into their new ventures. Maureen Disini is one of those colleagues that have taken the braver route. I remember one of our conversations back in early 2009, when she was still the fashion editor of Tatler. She shared with me that she wanted to pursue fashion design, and that she was leaving for Europe to study at Istituto di Moda Burgo Milano for fashion design and pattern making: “When I joined Tatler, I got to work with seasoned designers.  I got very curious with their line of work, and that’s how it started.  After much thought and deliberation, I decided to go on leave for a year and packed my bags for Milan.”

“My studies abroad were the first part in fulfilling my dream. Living in Europe cultivated my imagination and pushed myself to think creatively. I will always value my time as a dresser for four seasons in Milan Fashion Week.”  During her studies, my Facebook feed was filled with her updates on her life abroad. I “watched” her move in to her new stark-white abode, her internship works in Fashion Week (lucky girl!), and mostly, her wonderful sketches, which she drew and dedicated to her closest friends. Those illustrations caused quite the excitement for her immediate circle of friends—we couldn’t wait to see her how she will bring her visions to life!

To make sure she is on the right track, she took on internships when she got back. Working as a fashion editor for publications before, she, too, has gained many friends, including established designers who have helped her along the way. “I am forever grateful to three designers that helped me start my label. They are Inno Sotto, Rhett Eala, and Jun Escario. I thank them for sharing their experiences and wealth of expertise in their field.”

If you’ve seen Disini’s works up close, you’ll notice the similarities between her works and that of her mentors. More so, because they share the same aesthetics and tastes: “My style is a reflection of my personality: simple and understated. I love to use drapery to mask imperfections and, at the same time, highlight assets.”  Her first set of creations was Grecian goddess inspired. Three layer knit jersey fabrics in cool hues were seen on Manila’s most fashionable including Pam Gonzales-Lopez, Cheryl Tiu, Mayenne Carmona, and Frannie Jacinto, to name a few.

And with a growing clientele, every designer needs to learn the ropes of putting up and expanding a business. She, then, decided to take up a few more courses—a certificate course in Fashion Business at Istituto Marangoni Paris in 2011, and a summer course in vintage bridal wear at Central Saint Martins in 2012.  Armed with additional studies and experiences, Disini is now a designer for bridal wear as well. She also adds lace and feathers into her trademark styles. All incorporating her aesthetics of delicate simplicity.

You are sure to have a fun session with Disini, from sketching, to fabric picks and fittings. This designer aims to please her clientele, by imparting her styling expertise in creating the perfect outfit. “It warms my heart when clients remember me and tell me how much they appreciate the work we put in their gown.”

Her designs are available online at www.vitostudio.com  For appointments and inquiries, you may reach Maureen Disini at 0917-891110 or Maureen@maureendisini.com. Read more on Jane's Style Kit picks on www.luckyjanie.

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