Manuel
(The Man Behind the Entertainment Industry’s Top Fashion of the Past, Present and Future)
by Holly Marie Tong

“Lights, Cameras, Action…” are the words I would use to describe Manuel's famous showroom on the day of my visit. Successful models, actors/actresses and singer/songwriters all gathered to participate in a photo shoot that celebrity photographer Chuck Jones was on hand to work. Stylists Kimberly Anton and Lorrie Bradshaw were present to do hair and makeup to compliment the beautiful fashions of Manuel. This professional shoot took place as www.manuelcouture.com is being redesigned, reconstructed, evolved and expanded. An impressive selection of quality outfits and classic styles were being modeled and photographed for this special project. As a long time admirer of Manuel's work, getting the chance to sit down and talk with him about his journey was a true honor.

Manuel, often referred to as the “Rhinestone Rembrandt” has crafted an immeasurable amount of costumes and priceless fashion designs for a great deal of the most high profile celebrities of the past and present. When speaking of Manuel, it is essential and of the utmost importance to realize just how much of a major impact he has had and will continue to have on the fashion world. Have you ever wondered about the craft behind the signature suit of Elvis? That was Manuel. He personally knew Elvis as a polite, respectful client who was a good friend of his. What about the story behind Johnny Cash being the man in black? You guessed it…it was also Manuel who made this possible for this near and dear client. As amazing as these two facts are and as easy as they could respectfully stand on their own and form Manuel's entire career, it is far from stopping there. The Beatles, Frank Sinatra, Bob Dylan, Dolly Parton, Sonny & Cher, Little Richard, The Beach Boys, Madonna, Hank Williams I, II AND III, Keith Urban, Alan Jackson, John Travolta, James Dean, George H. Bush, George W. Bush, Dwight D. Eisenhower and Ronald Regan are just a VERY minimal amount of the individuals that Manuel has made clothes for. Manuel has designed wardrobe for at least 90 movies, many television shows and an untold number of formal events and national happenings. As you can see, Manuel is a legend and a one of a kind gifted artist that is blessed with a craft that leaves onlookers awestruck and in admiration.

When speaking of Manuel one must not use the simple term “designer” loosely as he is a master artist and a true leader in his field. Each piece of Manuel's standout work is carefully crafted and contains intricate detail as he gives close attention and care to everything he makes. With rhinestones, complex embroideries and true flair, his strong designs are the real deal and a lasting trademark in our world today. However, you may be wondering when and how Manuel got started? To answer your likely question, Manuel calls it “serendipity.” He was in Mexico and amazingly just 7 years old when his older brother taught him how to sew. What his brother likely didn't realize at the time was that he had helped Manuel find his true lasting niche that would become a massive national success. With a humble beginning and many twists and turns Manuel's talents were always recognized and built upon everywhere he went. He later found himself involved in Western Wear and eventually opened a shop in Hollywood. From Hollywood, he went to Nashville and today he continues to work closely with the country music industry. He is a fan of giving back and speaks of wanting to start an Institute of the Arts. He still faithfully makes his way to the studio every day as he truly loves what he does. His couture doesn't show any remote sign of slowing down….in fact, it appears to be going upward and onward which brings me to my next very important point:

I also had the pleasure of talking with Manuel's daughter Jesse about the thriving present and the undoubtedly bright future of this successful artistic business that their family is very understandably so driven and passionate about. Jesse, who works in the showroom daily is the business manager as she keeps a tight schedule of managing personal appointments, the showroom, walkin traffic, general management, sales, press and accounts. Just from one visit, I was able to see how proactive, thorough and professional she is in her work as well. It is clear that she has a true understanding of the direction of the entertainment industry and the need to accompany and compliment that direction. She recognizes that both the fashion and music industries are changing and as a result, Manuel's clientele is also changing. While Manuel's garments are indisputably sophisticated and gorgeously unique, she examines their brand making certain that they evolving in line with those changes.

Jesse says they are wanting to keep everyone updated on everything from new products, to upcoming showcases to what is going on at their shop. In the midst of an internet age she wants to be sure that products are viewable and accessible, while keeping Manuel original and true to its roots and unique creativity. She emphasizes, “You don't have to be a celebrity to wear Manuel…there is something for everyone!” She also notes, “Manuel is a genius, he can make anything out of a few yards of fabric.” I can personally agree with that because just from watching Manuel with his scissors I observed that his talent comes so naturally and accurately that he could probably sew a masterpiece suit in his sleep!...and I wouldn't be surprised if he has! (Haha).

Manuel is bringing exciting new touches to his already extraordinary designs. Having been known for about 50 years for his work in the Western and Rock n'Roll Couture, Jesse says she feels that he is expanding on that niche:

She notes, “right now we are seeing a lot more skulls, guns, feathers, sacred hearts and decks of cards. I'm seeing more of a fusion in the western and rock n' roll. To me, as a young person, this speaks to a younger more contemporary look. Of course Manuel still creates his traditional, sophisticated pieces, but I'm seeing him expound upon what he's already been known to design. And this makes so much sense; as his usual clientele is changing, he's showing the public that he can change with it.”

I observed this when I seen models wearing his newest creations and realized: Manuel is maintaining the beautiful originality of the work he is known for by having a continued uncompromising distinction, but he is also adapting, expanding and excelling above and beyond in a competitive and unpredictable industry. Never expect Manuel to rest on his laurels…he loves what he does and we love him, so why would he? With a proven track record in the fashion world, Manuel has never been driven by money ambition, nor by duplicating anyone else or repeating anything else. He is a fan of diversity and a fan of making people shine. After all, wardrobe plays an extremely important role in everyone's life whether famous or not and the positive disposition of Manuel is that he takes the time to learn his clients and to help them find the style that fits their personality. Aside from being a true fashion icon, he is an encourager, a confidence booster, an inspiring philosopher, a business mind and an inspiration that continues to fascinate and build up those around him.

Photos by Chuck Jones