In a MEGA Exclusive, celebrity makeup artist Dave Quiambao unveiled how dedicated Michelle Dee is to her Miss Universe 2023 preparation—beauty included
Transforming into a beauty queen is one story, but making a mark as a memorable candidate is another. Yet in the great scheme of things, Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee manages to do both. “There are a lot of things that make MMD stand out as a candidate,” Dave Quiambao expressed. “First, she’s a true Filipina beauty—that alone sets her apart from all the Western-looking women. She has a unique aura that exudes elegance and power. She’s smart and an eloquent speaker. And lastly, I’m all for what she stands for.”
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Many would agree that she has all that it takes to win the title. Of course, there is her authenticity, intelligence, advocacy, and grace. But one thing that can’t be left unmentioned is her beauty. “She’s certainly beautiful, for sure. With or without makeup, she’s stunning,” the makeup artist confirmed. With this in mind, Dave Quiambao exclusively shared with MEGA how the beauty queen is preparing for her upcoming competition and what it’s like working with client-turned-friend, Michelle Dee.
On her beauty signature
“Warm, sultry, and classy,” Dave Quiambao detailed when asked to describe Dee’s look. It’s undeniable that a radiant complexion and a smoky eye are among her beauty signatures—one thing that she has mastered throughout the years. But surprisingly, it wasn’t always like that. “Fun fact: Michelle only had little to no knowledge about makeup when I first met her,” the makeup artist recalled their first encounter. “Luckily, she’s a fast learner. With time, we were able to come up with her signature look. I’d say that most of her makeup knowledge is based on our years of experimenting. It’s gratifying to see her makeup skills now.”
On her beauty preparation for the competition
“Michelle is very dedicated to her training,” the makeup artist confirmed as he elaborated how she is prepared for every aspect of the competition, beauty included. “With MMD being a fast learner, we only needed a few makeup sessions to master her looks for El Salvador. I’m very confident that she will deliver,” he mentioned. But the question remains: How did he train the candidate for her upcoming competition? “I made sure that every look she will do is intentional and will showcase her versatility. More so, it’s guaranteed that she will look her best on the coronation night.”
On what to expect
With the 72nd Miss Universe competition fast approaching, fans are more than anticipated to see what to expect from her in the final stage. “For Miss Universe, I wanted her to look bolder without losing her Asian features,” the makeup artist shared his vision for the candidate. As for his best pageant makeup tip for Michelle Dee? “Don’t forget the self-tanner! It’s a great beauty hack so she doesn’t look pale on stage.”
Photos: MICHELLE DEE (via Instagram)
