The outfit to the right was one of Manuel's simpler designs, but it doesn't matter. I still want it! photos by Yuan-Kwan Chan

Manuel
Feb. 10, 2006 – Tent

Manuel had never shown a runway presentation before.  In fact, more than a few people hadn’t even heard of Manuel Cuevas, Sr., the 73-year-old behind the label that he now collaborates on with his son (Jr.).

However, a quick glance at the timeline written on his gold show invitation reveals a clientele that reads like a Who’s Who of Famous People.  The Nashville resident made Johnny Cash’s famous black suits.  He designed the uniforms that The Beatles wore on the cover of their “Sgt. Pepper Lonely Hearts Club Band” album.  He was responsible for John Travolta’s wardrobe in the film “Urban Cowboy.”  He did Elvis Presley’s “comeback outfit” consisting of a black leather jacket and matching pair of tight pants.  His numerous list of clients also includes Dolly Parton, Madonna, Cher and President George H.W. Bush, and his iconic symbols include the Grateful Dead’s skull and rose.  The Lone Ranger’s mask.  Even the Rolling Stones’ tongue!

What is most remarkable, according to The Daily, is that Manuel uses more than half a million rhinestones in his fashions each year, and he doesn’t do comps, even for celebrities, whose suits cost up to US$15,000 a pop.

Fast forward to the show, which featured a collection of men’s and women’s wear that was a delightful turn of trust fund cowboy meets big, bad city.  Of particular note amongst the sophisticated and sexy looks was a series of red rhinestone jackets with a patriotic American theme.  The collection was met by appreciative whistles throughout, followed by a standing ovation that both father and son soaked up during a lengthy stroll down the runway.

- Yuan-Kwan Chan