Miss Universe 2023 may be over but we are still on a high with what happened on its stage, especially in the fashion department. Beauty pageants, these days, aren’t just platforms for women who want to make a change. They are also an avenue to celebrate the talents of fashion designers worldwide, and among them are Filipino designers. The stage of the 72nd edition of the prestigious pageant was graced by many show-stopping Filipino creations that merged style with the stories and culture of their wearers. Below are some of the best Filipino fashion moments we saw during the coronation night of Miss Universe 2023.
Michelle Dee
The Philippines’ Michelle Dee stunned everyone with her unique piece for the evening gown segment of the competition. Crafted by Filipino designer Mark Bumgarner, the gown paid homage to the legacy of 106-year-old indigenous tattoo artist Apo Whang-od from Kalinga. It featured intricate beadwork mimicking Filipino’s ancient tattoo design and a draped skirt.
Catriona Gray
Catriona Gray has been a staunch supporter of Filipino fashion ever since she joined and won the pageant back in 2018. As she returned to this time as one of the pageant’s backstage hosts, the Filipino beauty made sure that she packed locally made designs. During the pageant, Catriona donned a stunning red one-shoulder gown by Anthony Ramirez and an immaculate corseted white gown by Jo Rubio.
R'Bonney Gabriel
Before she passed her crown to her successor, Miss Universe 2023 R’bonney Gabriel graced the stage one last time wearing a design by Rian Fernandez. Her farewell look was a dramatic red long-sleeved gown with crystal embellishments, complete with a beaded headpiece. It’s a full-circle moment for R’bonney as she was wearing the designer’s creation when she won the crown.
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