Hello

My name is Marissa Tampoya. I am from the Southernmost part of 

The Philippines. I grew up in Jolo, in the Sulu Archipelago. I am of the indigenous tribe ‘Tausug’. We love colors. We have so many exotic flowers, fruit & plants which truly are my inspiration.  Our tribes love wearing very colorful clothing. Every color is embraced and welcome.

I learned sewing and beading from the women in the family. We had a dress shop in the front of our house. My two Aunts were professional seamstresses. They were the most popular seamstresses in the island.  I remember when I was around ten years old, my aunt taught me how to bead a wedding cape. I did help a lot in hemming, sewing hook & eyes, snaps to the clothing.

I came to America in 1982 and have been here since. I began to do some sewing and repairing people’s clothes which led me to designing my own clothing. I started wearing the clothes I designed and I would get many compliments wherever I went. I enjoy what I do and I’m very happy that people really like my designs. I have designed for many models and quite a few of my friends.

I joined my first fashion show in San Francisco in 2015. I was invited to many others shows across California and outside of the state. 

You will find Island Gurl Creations in many boutiques, private and public fashion shows, private and public pop-up shows, fairs, festivals, trunk shows, and now you are able to buy them here.