Fashion has always been a form of artistic expression, a way for individuals to convey their inner selves through clothing. For John Guarnes, a renowned Filipino fashion designer, this creative outlet began at an early age and has evolved into a successful career that spans the globe. In an exclusive interview with The Global Filipino Magazine, Guarnes shared insights into his life, career, and the deep inspiration he finds in divine design.
John, the youngest of five siblings, was born in Manila, Philippines, to parents with a unique connection to the world of fashion. His father, Andres John, worked as a merchandiser, while his mother was a skilled dressmaker. This familial backdrop planted the seeds of inspiration in young John’s heart.
“At the age of six, I already showed interest in fashion as I started working in fashion sketching,” John explained. Even during his adolescence, he began designing clothes for his mother’s clients. This early exposure to the world of fashion set the stage for his future career.
It was clear from the beginning that John had an innate talent and passion for fashion. His mother played a pivotal role in nurturing his talent, entrusting him with the responsibility of designing garments for her clientele. This early apprenticeship instilled in him a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and design.
Fashion as a Calling
While John pursued a degree in Communication Arts at Far Eastern University (FEU), his heart was always in fashion. He worked in various fashion industry roles before taking the leap to establish his own atelier. He also actively participated in fashion competitions and received numerous accolades, solidifying his position as a rising star in the fashion world.
John’s dedication to his craft is evident in his impressive list of achievements, which include winning the Fashion Australia Grand Prize, being a finalist in the Paris Young Designer Award, and receiving the title of Mr. ART 2021 in the UK, among others. His creative talent has graced prestigious fashion shows worldwide, from LA Fashion Awards to Dubai Fashion Week.
Beyond his fashion success, John is a loving husband to Janely Martinez John and a proud father of two children, Shealtiel Jan and Jan Stachys. He is also deeply involved in various community service initiatives, particularly focused on nurturing the spiritual well-being of youth and children.
“My dream is to build a place of refuge for the children and youth, for them to have a place where they can be nourished both physically, emotionally, socially, and most especially spiritually,” John shared. His commitment to making a positive impact extends beyond the runway, reflecting his genuine concern for the well-being of his community.
A Versatile Designer with Divine Inspiration
John’s design philosophy is deeply rooted in his personal journey and spiritual beliefs. “I am inspired by the idea that God is the Greatest Designer who shaped us all,” he explained. Drawing a parallel between the divine creation of Adam and Eve and his own artistic process, John sees the hand of God in every aspect of life, including fashion.
His design approach is versatile, adapting to his mood and the trends of the season. John’s style is described as a classic yet modern appeal that caters to the preferences of his clients. He effortlessly transitions between Couture, Pret a Porte, and Avant Garde, depending on the message he wishes to convey through his collections.
John, a Filipino fashion luminary, embodies the idea that artistry can be a powerful medium for self-expression and inspiration. His journey from a young sketch artist to an internationally acclaimed designer showcases the influence of his family, his faith, and his unyielding dedication to his craft.
As John continues to make his mark on the global fashion scene, he remains grounded by his commitment to family and community. His dream of providing a place of refuge for the youth underscores his belief in the importance of nurturing the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being of future generations.
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This article has been published in Volume 4, Issue 9 of The Global Filipino Magazine. If you have a unique life story or know someone who does, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out to us at eic@theglobalfilipinomagazine.com. If you’re interested in obtaining a print copy of the magazine, please contact Mr. JP Cosico at +971 54 482 0661.