Avant-garde designer Axel Que shares some details about the upcoming creation
While it doesn’t have any bearing on a representative’s journey in the competition, the national costume presentation sets a lively start to the pageant proper for the Miss Universe. It gives candidates a chance to portray characters and present stories about their respective countries. For fashion creatives, it is a chance to demonstrate their design prowess on a global stage.
This year’s Philippine delegate, Beatrice Luigi Gomez, is set to wear the creation of fellow Cebuano, Axel Que. The beauty queen first wore a costume made by the designer during the national costume parade of Miss Universe Philippines. Now, it is becoming more extra with the help of fashion and jewelry designer Manny Halasan.
If you’ve been a keen follower of Beatrice’s style journey, fashion designer Albert Andrada shared a snap on Instagram of what looks like a gold and jeweled arm or leg piece. And we’re guessing it is part of her national costume. As the preliminary competition and national costume presentation are about to happen on Dec. 10, 2021 (Dec. 11 PHT), We chatted with Axel to give us an idea of what to look forward to about Beatrice’s Philippine-inspired costume.
What can people expect from the costume you’re creating and how is it different from the “Bakunawa” piece you did before?
I have used more bright colors with more distinct details. I made sure that the workmanship is very intricate to properly tell the story of a creature's evolution. This new masterpiece differs in color, silhouette, and also details.
Are you working with local artisans?
Yes. I collaborated with a lot of passionate designers in order to bring life to this creation. I tapped Manny Halasan for my headpiece and Jan Montalban for my shoes.
How was the design process?
In order to give birth to a masterpiece, you will need time, a whole lot of patience, and humility to need the helping hands of other creative designers. Honestly, it's quite difficult and challenging since I have to make a lot of sketches. It took days for me to recreate my drafts just to make sure that my vision will come to fruition. Aside from the design, I also had to make sure that the materials we are going to use will fit and complement each other, so the planning and conceptualizing also take time. I also had to meet with all the artisans that I collaborated with. It is something not made on a whim, it is borne out of passion, hard work, and collaboration.
How was your collaboration with jeweler Manny Halasan?
Working with Manny Halasan was just like a stroll in the park. It was fun and comfortable. There was no hassle because our designs had the same vibe. He made sure that his creations would match everything with the costume. I can definitely say that there was this artistic connection between the two of us, and this gave more impact and power to the overall quality of this masterpiece.
You’ve been creating costumes for many Filipino beauty queens now. What is it with designing that makes you love it?
As an avant-garde designer, I really want my designs to look like something out of a dream, something with an ethereal aura. It is my unique way of telling a story. So I am always fascinated by how intricate my pieces will be. We are not just talking about creating a design, the whole process includes selecting the concept, which is new and interesting, and experimenting with new techniques in every garment. The process is always nerve-wracking, but my passion for design always brings out the best in me.
The coronation night of the 70th Miss Universe pageant will be held at Eilat, Israel on Dec. 13, 2021 at 7:30 a.m. (PHT).