MJ Lastimosa turned her Miss Universe 2014 National Costume from cake decoration to campy glamour, revealing one of the most endearing hosting looks of coronation night
A decade ago, MJ Lastimosa’s National Costume at the 2014 Miss Universe competition resembled a cake decoration, sparking a flurry of reactions from humorous to critical. The Binibining Pilipinas Charities, Inc. (BPCI) even had to reevaluate its approach amid the nationalistic uproar. Now, as a host at the 60th Binibining Pilipinas Coronation Night, Lastimosa takes a tongue-in-cheek approach, playfully referencing her infamous costume in a manner that almost makes it endearing.
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In 2014, adorned in a floral ensemble by Colombian designer Alfredo Barazza, Lastimosa drew inspiration from Baguio’s Panagbenga Festival. The costume’s unconventional design garnered mixed reviews, prompting the pageant organization to pivot towards promoting Filipino designers, a move that benefited future titleholders like Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach. Sometimes, a misstep can truly lead to unexpected positive changes.
There’s a delightful campiness about Lastimosa, embracing rather than avoiding the joke, blooming with humor that she wears with grace—a rare quality in the high-stakes world of pageantry.
Confidence is her armor, evident in the actual armor she wore for the coronation night. Designed by Bonita Penaranda of Just Bonita and Dominik Haring of Studio Haring, her ensemble features a decorative piece in a white foundation adorned with floral accents, echoing the color palette of her infamous national costume. However, this time, the effect is decadent rather than dubious.
Perception can be as powerful as reality, but it’s self-awareness that can transform setbacks into stepping stones and moments of humility into enduring sources of strength. If turning humiliation into high fashion is an art, maybe MJ Lastimosa can do anything.
Photos and Featured Image: BONITA PENARANDA (via Instagram)
