“It’s important for me to not forget my roots because that is my core,” said avant-garde fashion designer Furne One Amato.

“My foundation of being a designer started when I was a kid and my influences are from my experiences from childhood – the place where I grew up, the things that I did, my friends, the everyday hustle and bustle of life, traveling, new people. These are my inspirations when I design. It’s all about life.”

Born in Cebu City, Philippines, Furne fondly described his birthplace as “rich with cultural influences as well as cultural innovations. Cebu is a melting pot of culture – from the Spanish colonization to modern globalization.”

It is from this rich cultural heritage which is known for its vibrant natural resources, colorful festivities, and women who dressed up for society parties that the young Furne developed his love for unique and elaborately detailed creations. And he has not forgotten his roots as he uses indigenous materials for his collections. “In fact, my last collection, shown at the annual Dubai Fashion Forward called ‘Revelation through Concealment,’ featured some of the Philippines’ local fabrics such as abaca, local jute, and piña,” he disclosed.

Now based in Dubai, Furne has meshed the various cultures that he is exposed to, paving the way for the Amato Couture label that is not for the fashion faint of heart.

You may have seen his collections featured in “America’s Next Top Model” or “Germany’s Next Top Model.” Hollywood celebrities have worn him from Jennifer Lopez to Lady Gaga.

“This was my dream. I am living my childhood dream. And my hard work and determination brought me here,” he said.

We interviewed Furne by email. Below are excerpts of our interview.

How challenging was it for you to break into Hollywood as an Asian fashion designer? What did you do to succeed?

Challenge and triumph come hand in hand.

I see my Asian roots as my advantage to penetrate the Hollywood scene. My exposure and experience in the Middle East, particularly in Dubai, and my clientele from the royal family to the creme de la creme of society give me a deeper understanding of my identity as a fashion designer. These unique experiences have molded me into who I have become today.

When we talk about success, I believe success is a subjective topic and defined by each individual distinctively and uniquely. In my case, success is about influence. The more I see fashion designers and young talents come out of the box and create provocative, curious, and edgy designs, I feel I somehow influenced them as my aesthetics are far away from the norms and fairytale stories. I always like to create discussions on my art and designs. For me, this is a success.

From the Philippines, you moved to Dubai. Why did you move and what is in Dubai that helped you flourish as an international fashion designer?

I have always been fascinated with travel and the different cultures I immerse myself in whenever I travel. Dubai was an interesting place when I moved back in the late ’90s as it was rapidly growing with magnanimous projects aligned. I also fell in love with their grandiose aesthetics — the maximalist approach to life. I believe my dreams are larger than life. Hence, I settled here and followed my dreams.

One thing that Dubai taught me is that “Everything is possible.” World ideas come to life in Dubai. From the tallest tower to the largest mall, to the man-made islands, Dubai has it. There is clearly no limit if you dream big. This city will make it happen for you, and that’s where I found my drive and inspiration to do good.

You have dressed several Hollywood celebrities already. Please share something memorable about them.

Beyoncé – She wore an all-white ensemble that I made for her “Mrs. Carter Show.” It was iconic.

 

Lady Gaga – She made a personal visit to my shop when she arrived in Dubai and left with numerous shopping bags. That was a good day for us.

 

Jennifer Lopez – I did several outfits for her. The latest one is for the “Medicine” music video which is definitely an unforgettable moment in pop culture history.

 

Heidi Klum – Heidi is a close friend and a confidante. She opened a lot of doors for me, and I owe a lot to her. I just love working with her. I regularly close the season of her “Germany’s Next Top Model” show by dressing up the final contenders.

 

Shakira – All-time performer! I remember dressing her up in an awards ceremony with a slick fiery red outfit that matches her spicy personality.

 

Katy Perry – One of my dearest celebrity friends. I was fortunate to dress her for the majority of her memorable “California Dream Girls” world tour. If you remember the unforgettable bubble gum and candy outfits, and all the brightly colored ensembles — that’s all our collaboration. I just love her sincerely.

 

What would you advise aspiring fashion designers who would like to make it in the industry and follow in your footsteps?

Own your unique power. We all have that special something in all of us. Cultivate that and be the success you want to be.

Your future projects?

There are numerous fashion shows I will be a part of this year. We are also planning another set of world tour fashion shows in 2023 so you better watch for which cities we are coming to!