5 Questions with Mondo Guerra

SINGAPORE — Even as fashion trends get into seasonal-inspired monochromatic mode, Mexican-American fashion designer Mondo Guerra is bursting onto the scene armed with his evocative colourful style. And he’s proud of it.

His latest collaboration with footwear giant, Crocs, is definitely bizarre, inspired by his mixed heritage and his love of pop culture. Guerra is determined to bring the catwalk fashion straight to the high street.

“Crocs and I share a love of colour and fun, accessible style so these shoes reflect that. My aesthetic is all about mixing prints with bold pops of colour. Colour makes me happy!” he said.

Guerra’s prismatic designs and geometric motifs speaks of a promising future for street haute couture - and more importantly, it’s affordable. And we can expect more from the 36-year-old Project Runway finalist.

“Well, I’m excited to continue working with Crocs on future collaborations.” he said. “I’ve also got a new collection of frames and sunglasses with SEE Eyewear coming out later this year. I’m very excited to offer some new designs from my own label on mondoguerra.com in a few months. And yes, I do offer international shipping!”

Q: Who is your go-to style inspiration?

A: I’m always drawn back to Jackie O’s classic elegance. She had this wonderful sense of style that seems to transcend the decades. I’m definitely inspired by movies, art and music. My Fall/Winter 14/15 collection was actually inspired by Selina Kyle - the secretary who becomes Catwoman. I was intrigued by the idea of this kind of frumpy, conservative woman’s journey to the dark side. I had photos of Michelle Pfeiffer from Batman Returns on my inspiration board to help set the tone.

Q: Have you ever had a fashion disaster?

A: A few years ago, I was about to show a collection on the runway when one of the wardrobe assistants accidentally drew a thick, black marker line down the sleeve of my opening look. I had to detach the sleeve, turn it inside-out and reattach it in a matter of minutes. I almost had a panic attack!

Q: What are the top five wardrobe staples?

A: For men, if you have a well-fitting suit, a white dress shirt and bow tie, blazer, jeans and a T-shirt, you are pretty much ready for any occasion. For the ladies, I think you need classic pieces like a little black dress and black dress pants, an investment item like a really strong piece of outerwear, on-trend accessories like a floral print clutch or pastel purse. And, of course, a great pair of jeans.

Q: What are your favourite fashion trends right now?

A: I’m loving the return of floral prints as well as playing with sheer and opaque fabric combinations.

Q: Do you have any advice for the bold fashionistas in Singapore?

A: I’m familiar with raising people’s eyebrows because I take risks and experiment with my personal style. But I think if you’re misunderstood, then you’ve got something good going on. My advice is to embrace your uniqueness and stay true to your sense of style. You have to learn that other people’s opinions of you only affect you if you let them.