Get to know Michael Cinco’s story, from his early beginnings in Samar to becoming one of the most accomplished Filipino designers in the world Audrey Hepburn, playing Eliza Doolittle in the movie My Fair Lady , sparked Michael Cinco's interest in fashion. The actress portrayed a flower seller who turned into a woman of great style whose sense of high glamor and luxurious gowns struck Michael at a young age. Little did he know he would be creating such pieces in the future.
Before becoming a big name in the fashion world, Michael lived a simple life in Catbalogan, Samar, a town he described as “far from the glamor of the fashion world.” What opened his eyes to the industry were classic Hollywood films and fashion magazines. With his town’s lack of resources and opportunities, Michael moved to Manila to kick-start his dream.
He studied Fine Arts at the University of the Philippines in Diliman, and eventually transferred to Slims Fashion and Arts School to focus on fashion design. He also enrolled at Central Saint Martins College of Arts and Design in London to further enhance his talent. “For someone from a small town like Samar, moving to Manila to pursue studies can be challenging.
The transition often involves adapting to a bustling city life, dealing with the financial strain of living in an urban center, and sometimes facing cultural differences,” Michael tells Manila Bulletin Lifestyle. “The cost of education and living in Manila is significantly higher, and.