In a MEGA exclusive interview, Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee unveiled the inspiring reason as to why her bob haircut will always be more than just a beauty pageant strategy
Pageantries are undoubtedly an exhibition of authenticity, intelligence, advocacy, and grace. Yet the beauty seen on the main stage is equally unforgettable. Think flawless base makeup, perfectly blended shadows, and strategic color placements. Of course, their hairstyle is included. And while waist-grazing, raven looks remain as a favorite, Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee is determined to challenge the norm with her bob cut. After all, a woman who cuts her hair is about to change her life.
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“May we continue to break boundaries and change stereotypes,” she wrote in an inspiring post. “Let’s not recognize our differences as weaknesses but as unique strengths.” MEGA also had an opportunity to have a quick chat with Michelle Dee on how taking her strands above her collarbone became her biggest beauty power move yet.
On the understated impact of short hair in pagentries
Waist-grazing tresses often appeal as a standard among pageantries—the exact reason as to why a short hair becomes one visual key to stand out among other candidates. It’s a rare sight to see, but it’s nothing new. Take a page from Miss Universe 1959 Akiko Kojima, who took home the title donning a micro bob. Of course, who could ever forget Miss Universe Vietnam 2018 H’Hen Niê? Her pixie cut easily became her beauty signature. More so, with its emphasis on classic and understated elegance, it comes as no surprise as to why short hair makes an ultimate power move in any competition.
On her biggest beauty power move
But it appears that a bob cut goes above and beyond as a beauty strategy for Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee. “Not only does it represent my personality better, but I really feel that it can empower so many people, not just myself, but people around me to really realize that you don’t have to fit into this stereotype, you don’t have to fit into this mold, to be able to become a beauty queen,” she exclusively shared in an interview. “Of course, the times are changing, the world is progressing, and the more that you break those barriers, the more that you stay true to our authentic self and uniqueness.”
She continued, “We’ve lived in a world where people are judged because they don’t represent what they feel is perfect, but everyone should be celebrated. And I hope with this mere gesture of cutting my hair, staying true to my identity—I hope that sends a positive message to everyone around me.”
On what to expect on the main stage
Beauty signatures are an extension of one’s personality, that’s for sure. Moreover, it’s one idea that Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee would want to embrace in the main competition. As for what to anticipate in her final look? Let’s just say that the candidate revealed they are brewing something to freshen up her signature bob. Think minimal tweaks with maximum impact. That is to say, it certainly gave every fan, enthusiast or novice, more things to look forward to in the upcoming competition.
Photos: MICHELLE DEE (via Instagram)
