It’s Miss Universe season once again. As Chelsea Manalo takes the stage, beauty creatives share their takes on the look that can win it all
The 73rd Miss Universe pageant has officially begun, and local beauty and pageant fans alike are rallying behind our very own bet Miss Universe Philippines 2024 Chelsea Manalo. As the first Filipino-Black American to represent the country on this stage, the 25-year-old exudes a unique presence that has everyone on their toes—not just for the classic evening gown and swimsuit moments, but for the beauty look that can win the crown. Here, MEGA asked different creatives in the beauty industry about their takes on the ultimate winning look for the beauty queen.
RELATED: Miss Universe 2024 Will Reign with this Filipino-Made Crown
Pageant-Winning Makeup Look
Kenneth Marcelino: Regal Glow
For Kenneth Marcelino, it’s about maximum glow. The makeup artist has worked with Chelsea on many projects and reveals being inspired by models Sydney Harper and Jasmin Tookes when doing Chelsea’s glam. “Just like Ate Chelsea, they are women of color with darker skin tones. I want her to be radiant and glowing, especially for her shoots which will be released while she’s in Mexico,” Kenneth shared.
He envisions gilded lids to catch the light and contrast beautifully with her skin tone. Based on his beauty mood board, he would seal the look with a warm satin lip finish defined by a darker lip liner to truly seal in that regal definition.
He has a clear vision for Chelsea’s winning look, which to him is a reinterpretation of her recent coronation as Miss Universe Philippines 2024. “She has such a regal beauty,” he explained. “If I were given the chance to do her makeup look in Mexico, I would create what most Filipinos want for her: to bring out the true beauty of a Filipina.”
Jessica Bonoan: Subtle Yet Strong
Chelsea is both soft and fierce, and Jessica Bonoan wants to highlight that. She wants chiseled yet soft, bold yet subtle, and defined with a touch of glam.
“Having a deep understanding of her facial structure and skin tone, I would maintain her signature inner corner eyeliner and the captivating smokey eye with neutral earth tones,” the makeup artist explained. She also wishes to accentuate Chelsea’s natural beauty—precise contouring and highlighting and an added berry-toned warmth to her cheeks. As for the lips, she’d keep it defined with a brown liner topped with a touch of gloss for a modern edge.
For Jessica, the key is balance—strong, statement eyes paired with a soft lip. “This look would balance Chelsea’s soft and fierce sides, showcasing her natural beauty while exuding confidence and power,” she expressed.
The Crowning Glory
Florenz Torrontegui: Power Veil
Hair holds power, and it’s often the difference between a good look and a crown-worthy one. Florenz, who’s worked closely with the beauty queen on past looks, has a clear favorite. “We already did different hairstyles, from a sleek bun, ponytail, and soft waves, to even her natural curls, but long, straight hair really stands out for me,” the hairstylist said. “It is, for me, her most powerful look.”
Chelsea naturally has afro-textured hair, so having it pin-straight is a striking transformation—a power veil casting a shadow of elegance over her. “I can also say that even Chelsea really loves it,” he revealed. “Out of all the hairstyles we did, her aura really transforms when she has long, straight hair.”
Jan Edrosolan: Sleek Supremacy
Jan shared the same thoughts and is all about sleek simplicity. “A long, sleek, and straight middle part with hair tucked behind the ears could give her a polished, sophisticated look that will let her facial features—and the crown—shine,” said the hairstylist.
Alternatively, she could also go for a snatched bun, which exudes grace and grandeur. “The snatched bun would look regal and elegant, especially under a crown, highlighting her bone structure and neckline,” he added.
Having captivated the crowd with a fresh look at every stage of the preliminaries, Chelsea’s ability to effortlessly transform leaves us eagerly anticipating her final beauty moment. We’re all on the edge of our seats, wondering what she’ll do next.
Featured Image and Photos: CHELSEA MANALO (via Instagram)