LOS ANGELES --- “It’s not Valentino. It’s Tolentino.”

This is what the boyish-looking Oliver Tolentino usually says when non-Filipino clients walk up to his newly opened shop in Melrose and thinks his creations look like Valentino’s. What adds to the mixup is that his name is a sound-alike of the Italian icon’s name.

Born in Orani, Bataan in the Philippines, this soft-spoken and humble designer is proud of his roots. “I opened this shop to show everyone what the Philippines can do in terms of fashion and how intricate Filipino workmanship is. I’m proud to put the Filipino stamp in what I do,” he said.

His strategically located shop, which just opened last July, is neighbors with Dolce & Gabbana, Armani/Casa, and Balenciaga, among top name designers.  

Oliver’s clothes stand out with his use of intricate beadwork and vibrant colors. Oliver, 38, also accepts made-to-order gowns. “My clients actually talk to me and not to an assistant,” he points out. “I deliver my gowns ahead of time,” he adds.

He recently participated in the Downtown Los Angeles Fashion Week held at The Geffen MOCA (Museum of Contemporary Art), and fashion critics and organizers were in awe of his wide range of collection from cocktail dresses to haute couture.

Raved Examiner.com: “Oliver Tolentino sent his Spring 2010 down the runway to everyone's excitement.”

Oliver will be doing a show at “Fashion L.A. Party” on Nov. 7, featuring many of his 40-piece collection.  The Circus Club at Santa Monica Blvd. show will be directed by Vic Perez.

Oliver will also appear at Eco Chic Geneva at the UN headquarters in Switzerland in January 2010 with his piña collection. He will be joining the likes of Diane Von Furstenberg, John Rocha, and Thakoon, one of Michelle Obama’s favorite designers.

Of his Hollywood success, Oliver says, “I am just happy that I am promoting the Philippines and the Filipino talent. Making a dress is like painting and I am just proud that I am putting not only the Oliver touch but the distinctive Filipino touch as well.”

When not designing or having runway shows, Oliver loves to cook. “I love to cook Filipino dishes. It’s my way of relaxation,” he said.

Oliver has dressed up Filipino celebrities like Kuh Ledesma,  Regine Velasquez, Zsa Zsa Padilla, and former First Lady Imelda Marcos. But a fondest dream of his remains, and that that is to have Angelina Jolie, Halle Berry or Julia Roberts wear his creations.

“Dreams are possible if you work hard for it,” he said remaining hopeful.

E-mail the writer at jrnepales_624@yahoo.com for your comments.