The tropics is the perfect avenue to diversify sartorial choices. Given its limitations when it comes to the environs, the truly talented have all the opportunities to stress their creative feathers and to rise up to the ranks, to prove that even with that said limitation we can still be as fashion-forward as our contemporaries in the west. With that said, meet my friend Yves Martini, the hand behind these inspired creations:



black top, embellished belt and coral-toned harem pants, all from Yves Identify Summer 2009



sheath dresses from Yves Identify Pre-Fall 2009


structured overcoat in gingham, Yves Identify pre-Fall 2009


this season's most coveted--sheer off-shoulder top, and a full skirt in platinum, Yves Identify pre-Fall 2009


sheer detail, Yves Identify pre-Fall 2009


Aoi modelling a black draped sheath dress, Yves Identify pre-Fall 2009

Having been in the local fashion rounds since 2005, Yves has definitely risen up the echelons of local fashion as a formidable designer and has proven time and time again the seamless fluidity and the continuous evolution of his creativity. A token favorite for styling local events and having a wide range of clientele under his belt, he has transcended from being just a classroom favorite to becoming one of those leading the pack in the young designer revolution. He is the go-to guy for silhouettes that are unmistakably classic, yet with lines impeccably modern and understatedly chic.

I recently sat down with the designer to ask him a few questions:

Off the top of your head, who are your perennial design influences?

For menswear, I've always loved Tim Hamilton, Christopher Bailey and John Varvatos. For women, Proenza Schouler will always be a favorite. I also admire the various Asian designers (Peter Som, Derek Lam, Richard Chai, Phillip Lim, Thakoon Panichgul, Alexander Wang) who have successfully broken through global fashion. I admire their styling & their looks inspire me to "layer" intelligently.

And what direction have you taken for your current collection?
I've decided to go East! To Jaipur, that is. also my clothes have that distinct "cabana" feel, very lounge, very comfy.

So what's the perfect accessory that fashionistas should have this summer?
its all about the hats this season! crusher (like Burberry's), straw fedoras and wide hats... trendy and at the same time a great protection against the heat! guys should also don above the knee shorts this year. and avoid the florals while they're at it.
Professional styling tips that will work well on anyone?

* Everyone should start with the basics (like slimcut pants/jeans, a shirt) and just basically build around on that. accessories make any simple outfit go a long way.

* to channel trends, just focus on one highlight piece at a time-an updated jacket, shoestyle, accessories--never wear the whole nine yards at one time.

* anyone can channel a trend just through colours alone-that way, they may already have the key season colours without having to shop for it!

A lot of things are definitely in the works from the talented designer, including a fashion meets rock show called We Will Rock Your Wardrobe on the 28th, as well as a slate of other shows and hopefully his own shop by 2010. Definitely the imagination knows no bounds, and diversity and creativity, as seen in his case.


for ordering information, and for more information, visit Yves' personal site, http://yvestyle.blogspot.com.