Discover the colorful life of Tweetie de Leon-Gonzalez, the model turned designer whose creations resonate with those who appreciate the unexpected and delightful.
This is an excerpt from Lifestyle Asia’s October 2023 Issue.
When one thinks of Tweetie de Leon-Gonzalez, the image of a strikingly beautiful model gracing the covers of magazines and lighting up television screens often comes to mind.
She’s been a household name since the 80s, known for her elegance and poise. However, Gonzalez’s story goes beyond the world of fashion and fame.
It’s a story of evolution, creativity, and the hands-on artistry that defines her unique creations.
After retiring from the modeling industry, she added more feathers to her already colorful cap–she became a wife, a mother of four, and ventured into the world of design.
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A Life of Color and Creativity
“I started designing primarily because I had already retired from modeling at that time. I had two children, and my life had shifted dramatically. I found myself with more time on my hands when the kids were sleeping,” Gonzalez shared.
Her transition from modeling to design was born out of her passion and creativity.
From a young age, she had a knack for working with her hands, tinkering with various objects, and imagining new creations.
Jewelry making became her chosen craft, despite having no formal training.
She was entirely self-taught, a journey filled with trial and error. “I made so many mistakes,” she admitted, “but eventually, I built my confidence and started offering my creations to others.”
Gradually, Gonzalez expanded her product line beyond jewelry, including bags and art trays.
Her latest venture, a collection of swimsuits, showcases her endless creativity.
When asked about her brand promise and how she personally embodies it in her designs, she responded, “Everything about TDLG holds a piece of me. These are pieces that I would personally wear. So, for me, it’s about sharing my vision of fashion and making it fun.”
Her designs are characterized by vibrant colors and unique combinations, offering pleasant surprises to those who wear them.
It’s a reflection of her own fashion sensibilities, and she extends this style to anyone who chooses to partake in TDLG.
Life’s Chapters
In a world where fashion can sometimes feel uniform and predictable, Gonzalez’s designs stand out as beacons of originality and individuality.
Her creations cater to a wide demographic, transcending ages and genders. “I have teenagers who use my pieces, I have grandmothers who use my pieces,” she proudly shares.
This universal appeal speaks to the timelessness of her designs and the depth of her creativity.
Transitioning from a successful modeling career to a new path in design was not without its challenges.
“Not many people understood what I was trying to do,” Gonzalez recalls. “Or maybe they weren’t accepting of what I was doing, that I was serious about my new skill, my new craft, and my new offering.”
But she remained undeterred, driven by the belief of those who understood her vision and the passion for her craft.
The most rewarding aspect of her journey is the steady growth of her business and the fulfillment she gains from it creatively.
When it comes to true wealth and luxury, Gonzalez’s perspective is deeply rooted in her roles as a wife and mother.
“True wealth and true luxury, to me, is having my family around me as my support,” she shared.
For her, nothing can replace the importance of family in her life.
Read more by purchasing a copy of the Lifestyle Asia October 2023 magazine via SariSari.shopping or select newsstands in National Bookstore and Fully Booked. Subscribe to the E-Magazine via Readly, Magzter, and Press Reader.
Photos by Kieran Punay of KLIQ, INC.
