A true designer is one who has a clear point of view –an intricate sense of inspiration that transforms itself into fashionable timepieces that capture how an artist creatively sees the world at a particular moment of his not so ordinary life.
 Take it from Brian Tenorio, a graphic artist cum shoe designer (clearly a full time artistic genius) whose inspired visions are translated into fearlessly stylish shoe designs. His label, Tenorio Manila has been the most widely-publicized shoe brand in the country, with international websites and publications, also having a watchful eye on his world-class line. Tenorio Manila is now synonymous to high-end footwear or designer footwear that’s proudly Philippine-made. With an illustrious team of shoemakers from Marikina Valley, this company is armed and ready to produce designer foot pieces to strike any fancy. Tenorio Manila has been hailed as the only made-to-order custom-fit designer label for men and women’s shoes in this part of the Far East which continually produces tangible forms of 3 universal concepts: Luxe, Lust, and Love (which for the company is the enlightenment about things, the physical desire for the aesthetic, and love in its general sense.) Brian adds, “Tenorio Manila has never really been about trends. I wouldn’t even say that the designs are classic. The objectives of the styles are basic and our goal is to create…just that beautiful, inspiring, and inspired stuff. From a more enterprising perspective, I do not need to think about trends or what sells so much because we only produce small quantities of high end customized pairs every month.”
 Gracing Tenorio Manila’s latest line are the Dudus. These adorable men’s shoes are made up of one piece of suede leather that is stitched once at its back. Brian has developed a way of not putting lining and forming agents to the skins. “What you have then are pairs that will mold to your feet’s contour, pairs that can be flattened completely when not worn (except for its rubber sole parts).” This is a huge spin from Brian’s usual black and neutral toned men’s footwear. He’s definitely taking a detour to youthful colors, wild adventures, and pure celebration of the free spirit. The name Dudu alone is quite whimsical in its own. “While not meaning anything in particular, “Dudu” can mean so many other things. But personally, "Dudu" reminds me of concepts like fun, youth, and being daring-- the more fantastic features of summer that could extend long after the season ends.”
Brian carefully reflected on his color selection process –places visited, favorite objects, old flames, new loves, even memorable events are all insights splashed with color. (Brian showed me his objects of inspiration –like little Polaroid shots taken from his travels…It’s amazing how one seemingly mundane object could serve as an epiphany for art) Dudus come in six colors: Madarini Orange (inspired by Japan’s Torri Gates, Dog Blue (from Cajun Artist George Rodrigue’s painting of a–really–blue dog, one of Tenorio’s most favorite visuals), Hickey Pink ( a real rose-colored hickey) , Korat Grey (heart-shaped-headed cat breed from Thailand) Plain Mustard (the indispensable condiment), and Tenorio’s favorite color, 100% Cyan. (Php444/ pair of Dudus)
Brian states, “Dudus” actually make up the project I had the most fun doing…Virtually no lines on the molds to maneuver with at all. No other detailing except one color per pair… It was a lot of fun, and a (long delayed) summer vacation from being my formal and classic self.” His advice for men who are a bit shy on color, “Men should be more adventurous…They must have the willingness to take risks and to try out new things. This could actually mean a heightened level of confidence and self mastery of themselves.”
Want a pair of Brian Tenorio’s creation? You may visit Apt.904 Prince Plaza One, across Greenbelt 5, behind Ayala Museum or click here for more designs and contact details. |
