Catriona Gray on Why She's Not Interested in Attending Fashion Weeks

Even before she became the fourth Miss Universe from the Philippines, Catriona Gray had long been immersed in the world of fashion. With a solid background in modeling, the 32-year-old is no stranger to intricate garments and the runway. Shortly after her coronation, one of her first major appearances was at New York Fashion Week, where she got her first real taste of the fast-paced sartorial circuit.

In a recent interview with Karen Davila, Catriona opened up about her views on fashion week, stating that it's not something she sees aligning with her career. "It's not something that really resonated with me," she admitted.

Upon being welcomed into Catriona’s home of two years, Karen noted what she believes sets the beauty queen apart. “What’s interesting about you,” she said, “is that you’re not all about the glitz and glamor. That is what makes you different.”

According to the news anchor and host, Catriona has not made it a priority to attend fashion events abroad, pointing out how other Miss Universe titleholders are often seen in haute couture on the global circuit.

To this, Catriona responded candidly: “I’ve experienced fashion week before, and it’s not something that really resonated with me. I think if you are a lover of fashion, like a connoisseur of fashion, you’ll really enjoy it. It’ll give you energy, and it’ll inspire you. It just kind of felt like modeling, but in the street.”

Catriona shared that she has a deep affinity for pieces made in the Philippines—whether garments or furniture. “Not to say that I can’t admire international brands and things, but I have a deeper love and appreciation for what’s locally made,” she clarified.

This inclination toward Filipino-made products also informs her career decisions and how she positions herself to uplift local communities. “I love doing work that really resonates with me,” she said. “Which is why I choose the opportunities that I choose and then maybe just say, ‘No, thank you,’ to other ones.”

Still, Catriona gives credit to those who attend global fashion events as representatives of Filipino style. “I can admire people who are there elevating the Philippines [through] that platform. I think it’s fantastic,” she explained. She can appreciate a strong look and the “pasabogs” on social media, but for herself, she prefers to “put [her] attention elsewhere.”

Watch Catriona's full interview with Karen Davila below.