Chin up, pageant fans! While we may be concluding a 12-year streak of semi-final placements at Miss Universe, we're still reeling with pride from Celeste Cortesi's stellar performance on the global stage. It's not too shabby considering this was only her third-ever competition!
Throughout the weeks that she's been in the States preparing, we've been keeping a keen eye on her looks. The beauty queen has always possessed a signature sultry flair, as evidenced by her affinity to swimsuits and hubadera ensembles. For her voyage towards the crown, she enlisted the help of stylist-to-the-stars Perry Tabora in dressing up for the pre-pageant activities.
In an interview with Preview, Perry states that, "the goal [was] for Celeste to stand out. I wanted her looks to be something you would not usually see in a pageant." Aiming to strike the balanced between elegant and fashion-forward, he says that, "the key [was] to take calculated fashion risks."
Overall, it was all about having the 25-year-old queen stand out from the vast sea of candidates. "I wanted her to be the moment. The girl that when you see her, you [would] instantly know that she loves fashion and [she takes] risks when it comes to her looks. She is never boring, never settles, and is always evolving," Perry declares.
If you ask us, we totally saw his vision come to life with Celeste's full lookbook. Scroll through it below and you'll for sure be agreeing with us!
LOOK: Celeste Cortesi's OOTDs During Miss Universe 2022
1. Upon touching down in New Orleans, Celeste suited up in a sparkling silver Chynna Mamawal ensemble paired with clear platform heels, a Louis Vuitton handbag, and smokey black eyeshadow.
2. On the next day of their press junket, the Fil-Italian donned a sequined black trench coat by Chris Nick. It totally imparted a whiff of luxury to her strapless LBD and knee-high booties!
3. Who else had their jaws on the floor when Celeste stepped out in this hot pink feathery number? Crafted by Christine Lam, the strapless mini frock definitely turned heads among her co-delegates. The silver drop earrings just brought it home!
4. Two days before coronation night, the beauty queen was spotted in a cropped leather jacket which starred electric blue feather trims. Made by Rob Ortega, the piece was teamed with black shades, matching leather pants, and a Christian Dior belt.
5. With a competition as high stakes as Miss Universe, every moment is an opportunity to show (and look) your best. That includes rehearsals! During their practice hours, Celeste kept it casual but put-together in a white three-piece Chris Nick suit, accented with chunky hoop earrings.
6. Our golden girl attended a special dinner between the contestants and organizers in an exquisite Michael Leyva creation. The metallic-hued cowl-neck dress hugged her figure perfectly, and her fur jacket totally imbibed some old Hollywood flair! Stunning!
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