When it comes to the glitz and glamour of the fashion industry, few can match the exuberance and flair of Filipino-American designer David Tupaz. As he took the stage at the recently concluded LA Fashion Week, Tupaz proved once again why he has become a fixture on the national fashion circuit, captivating audiences with his latest couture collection.

Born in the Philippines, Tupaz moved to the United States as a young man, carrying with him a deep-rooted passion for fashion and design. But navigating the highly competitive world of American fashion was no easy feat for the aspiring entrepreneur.

David with Taylor Swift

“When I first came to the U.S., I didn’t have any connections or resources,” Tupaz recalls. “I had to start from scratch and really fight to make a name for myself.”Fight, he did. Tupaz’s unwavering determination and eye for high-end glamour soon caught the attention of fashion insiders across the country. Over the years, he has become a regular fixture at major fashion weeks, from New York to Seattle, showcasing his intricate, show-stopping couture creations.

Over the years, he has become a regular fixture at major fashion weeks, from New York to Seattle, showcasing his intricate, show-stopping couture creations.

However, it is at LA Fashion Week where Tupaz truly shines. The designer has a unique understanding of the West Coast aesthetic, blending the laid-back California cool with the unapologetic drama of Hollywood.

Filipino-American designer David Tupaz

“LA shows bring that ‘Hollywood’ vibe – the glamour, the red carpets, the awards season,” he explains. “It’s a perfect fit for my design sensibility.”
Tupaz’s latest LA presentation was a testament to his mastery of this balance. Inspired by the sun-drenched shores of the Amalfi Coast, his collection featured an all-white palette that evoked a sense of Mediterranean elegance. Yet, beneath the refined surface, there was an unmistakable dash of Tinseltown flair.

“Everything I do is like a production number,” Tupaz says. “I make the idea, create the image, and bring it to life.” This meticulous attention to detail has made him a favorite among the Hollywood elite, with countless celebrities adorning his creations on the red carpet.
But Tupaz’s success is not solely defined by his work with A-list stars. As a Filipino-American entrepreneur, he has also made it his mission to nurture the next generation of fashion talent, both in his adopted hometown of Las Vegas and beyond.

Through his involvement with the Las Vegas Fashion Design Council, Tupaz has mentored local designers, artists, and students, helping to build a thriving fashion industry in the city. He has also championed sustainability, serving as the creative director for the nonprofit Repurpose America, which converts industry waste into new materials.
“Protecting the environment is a big deal,” Tupaz says. “We all need to contribute what we can to protect our planet. I work with sustainable materials, and I just try to be as creative as possible with it.”

As he continues to make his mark on the national fashion stage, David Tupaz remains a true embodiment of the American Dream. Born with a passion for design, he has navigated the challenges of being a Filipino-American entrepreneur to become a respected voice in the industry, inspiring others with his boundless creativity and unwavering spirit.