In a captivating tribute to her iconic mother, Miss International 1979 Melanie Marquez, Michelle Dee graced the Miss Universe Preliminary Evening Gown Competition in a creation by celebrated Filipino fashion designer Mark Bumgarner.
LOOK: Michelle Dee's Miss Universe Prelims Gown Is a Tribute to Melanie Marquez
The evening gown was more than a mere ensemble but a deliberate way to honor a Filipina icon. With strategic cutouts accentuating a cinched waist, a high neckline, power shoulders, and a column silhouette, the gown spoke eloquently of modernity and elegance with each element carefully crafted to embody the essence of Miss International 1979 Melanie Marquez's enduring influence.
"Miss Universe Philippines evening gown for the Miss Universe Preliminary Evening Gown Competition is a tribute to a Filipina Icon, Melanie Marquez, her mom, who won Miss International in 1979," the designer revealed through an Instragram post. The gown, bedecked with thousands of Swarovski crystals in emerald green and black hues, shimmered with a brilliance reminiscent of a green viper's skin—"a symbol of wisdom, power, and transformation," Mark added.
Strategically placed cutouts offered a modern touch, accentuating a cinched waist, while a high neckline, power shoulders, and a column silhouette contributed to an overall elegant aesthetic. According to Mark, his design not only paid homage to a Filipina legend but also underscored Michelle's powerful presence on the stage.
"Thank you @michelledee for a powerful performance tonight!!! You looked amazing and we [are] excited for you come finals night," Mark wrote. "MICHELLE MARQUEZ DEE, FILIPINAS!!"
The best of luck to you, Michelle!
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