Indeed, beauty pageants these days are also platforms that champion not only women but also the talents of fashion creatives. A testament to that is the grand finale of Miss Universe Philippines 2023. The local pageant may have ended its 2023 run last May 13 at SM Mall of Asia Arena, but its style fest continues to inspire us. Below are some of our favorite fashion moments of the night, proving that pageants, especially in the Philippines, are always a stylish affair.
Miss Universe Philippines 2023 candidates during the opening segment (Photo by Juan Carlo de Vela)
All-black opening look
Miss Universe Philippines 2023 coronation night started on a classy and dramatic note as the candidates graced the stage wearing stunning all-black garbs by fashion designer Chris Nick.
The pageant's Top 5 candidates: Michelle Dee, CJ Opiaza, Pauline Amelinckx, Angelique Manto, and Krishnah Gravidez (Photo by Juan Carlo de Vela)
Evening gowns
Through the years, the evening gown segment of a pageant has been a way for candidates to share their personalities and heritage. And the same took place at Miss Universe Philippines 2023 stage. CJ Opiaza donned a Mak Tumag gold and red piece that was inspired by Zambales’ goddess of good grace “Mangalagar.” Krishna Gravidez lit up the stage with her black and white glimmering gown by Rian Fernandez. Angelique Manto was a true vision of beauty in her sultry emerald number with matching opera gloves by Frederick Policarpio. Like an angel descending from above, Pauline Amelinckx mesmerized the audience wearing a white flowy gown by Mikee Andrei. While best in evening gown winner and eventual Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee took everyone’s breath away with her minimalist and sophisticated gown by Mark Bumgarner.
Zozibini Tunzi with co-hosts Xian Lim and Alden Richards (Still from ABS-CBN Entertainment)
Zozibini Tunzi in couture
Miss Universe 2019 Zozibini Tunzi also served major fashions at the coronation night as its guest host. One of her looks was designed by Filipino couturier Leo Almodal. The gown with 3-D floral details was inspired by “the lush rainforest of the Philippines.”
Celeste Cortesi crowning Michelle Dee with Miss Universe 2022 R'bonney Gabriel (Photo by Juan Carlo de Vela)
Celeste Cortesi’s farewell look
Before passing on her crown, Miss Universe Philippines 2022 Celeste Cortesi graced the pageant’s stage for her final walk wearing a champagne gown by Anthony Ramirez.
Hello, readers! Do you have a story you want us to feature? Send us a message onFacebook,Instagram,Tiktok, andTwitterand let’s talk about it.