The Miss Universe Philippines 2023 pageant culminated yesterday, May 13, 2023, with Michelle Dee taking home the crown. It has been months of hard work and stamina for the 38 contestants, and last night was no different. Held at the Mall of Asia Arena, each phenomenal woman showcased their prowess and sparkle throughout the various segments of the program. One of the highly anticipated parts was the long gown walk which featured the Top 18 contestants.
Sartorially speaking, it was interesting to see how each woman chose to stand out. Some embraced the excessively sparkly route typical of pageants, while others went against the grain in low-key ensembles that were just as head-turning.
Here, we present the most memorable creations that deserve to be recognized for their uniqueness and craft:
1. Pauline Amelinckx, Bohol
Fan-favorite Pauline Amelinckx was one of the first to enter the stage, and she undoubtedly surprised the crowd in her frock of choice: a white trapeze dress. It was unusual yet highly refreshing. Designed by Louis Pangilinan, the ivory number was incredibly chic and looked breathtaking on her.
2. Angelique Manto, Pampanga
Ever the fashionphile, Angelique stayed true to her contemporary aesthetic in a flapper-inspired emerald green gown by Frederick Policarpio. With a halter neckline and cascading beaded pattern, what was striking about the look were her matching opera gloves. It was almost like a fashion editorial!
3. Michelle Dee, Makati
One would rarely see black on a pageant stage but Michelle wasn’t afraid to try it. And it made sense given her classic taste in fashion. She wore a number by Mark Bumgarner with a sweetheart neckline and knee-high slit. Its accent detail was a lone rhinestone trail that matched her diamond necklace. She took home the ‘Best in Long Gown’ award!
4. Emmanuelle Vera, Cebu Province
Cebu’s pride Emmanuelle Vera may have stumbled during the swimsuit round but she got back on her feet, wowing everyone with her majestic long gown choice. She was a vision in a sparkly, sultry creation by GL Garlate–a sophisticated yet festive design that literally made her shine.
5. Christine Opiaza, Zambales
Zambales bet Christine Opiaza was the only one wearing a dress that featured a surprising twist: a swath of burgundy silk that trailed behind her like a cape. The goddess-like design by Mak Tumang was sophisticated and fabulous, definitely leaving a mark on everyone who witnessed the moment.
6. Samantha Panlilio, Cavite
There is always no shortage of sparkle on a pageant stage but what was cool about Cavite’s Samantha Panlilio’s gown was its gradient color design: lilac at the top that warmed into yellowish tones in the middle and lavender at the bottom. The Rian Fernandez design featured a singular cutout that accentuated her curves!
7. Krishnah Marie Gravidez, Baguio
Baguio representative Krishnah Marie Gravidez looked absolutely breathtaking in a black-and-white number also designed by Rian Fernandez. A column dress with a sweetheart neckline, what made it stunning was how it fit her perfectly and hugged her curves. The baroque pattern on the front was also tastefully done.
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