With Miss Universe Philippines coming up in less than two weeks, we are looking back on these fashion moments from both Miss Universe and Miss Universe Philippines in time for the much-awaited coronation night
We have now reached the month of May, and this simply means a new aspiring beauty queen will be chosen to represent the country in this year’s Miss Universe very soon. There is without a doubt that past candidates never failed to leave a strong impression with their intelligence, grace, fiery spirit, and outstanding ensembles for the night. But as we get closer to the coronation night on the 13th of May, we are looking back at iconic fashion moments the past queens and candidates had during their reign or even after it.
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Pia Wurtzbach recreates iconic Miss Universe winning looks
In May of last year, Pia Wurtzbach decided to pay her respects to four Filipino beauty queens by recreating their winning looks. The Filipiniana white dress designed by Mark Bumgarner was dedicated to Gloria Diaz’ white gown in 1969, when she became the first Filipina to win the Miss Universe title. Meanwhile, a sultry yellow gown by Jaggy Glarino paid tribute to the iconic flower on Margie Moran’s gown when she won the crown in 1973.
A heavily embellished blue dress that featured cutouts designed by Louis Pangilinan was inspired by the iconic blue dress Pia herself wore during her unforgettable crowning moment as Miss Universe 2015. And lastly, an iteration of Catriona Gray’s striking red sultry dress that she wore in 2018, along with red was made by GLADI ECHAVARRE and ATSUKO KUDO, making her the fourth to win the crown.
Photos: PIA WURTZBACH (via Instagram)
Catriona Gray’s Mayon Volcano dress
In the sea of silver and gold hued gowns, Catriona Gray made a statement by opting to wear a red gown that was heavily influenced by the Mayon Volcano’s alleged namesake which is ‘Daragang Magayon’ (Beautiful Lady). It was able to recreate the lave as crystal embellishments in red, orange, yellow, and black decorated the piece from top to bottom. This iconic red dress was definitely the fashion statement of 2018.
Rabiya Mateo’s Philippine Flag inspired National Costume
Back in 2021, Rabiya Mateo represented the Philippines in Florida amidst the pandemic. For her national costume ensemble, the former candidate decided to take the flag with her quite literally by wearing the blue and red on her wings and the 3 gold stars seen by her wings and bodice. For her, the ensemble made her feel like a Victoria Secret model.
Bea Gomez makes a statement with her suit
Just last year, Bea Gomez walked up the stage to perform her last walk as Miss Universe Philippines. The former candidate made a bold decision to walk off the stage wearing a sleek black suit designed by Francis Libiran and a pair of pink pumps that definitely stood out.
Featured Image: MISS UNIVERSE (via Instagram)
