As the day of the Miss Universe 2020 pageant grows closer, the stakes are getting higher.
Philippine representative Rabiya Mateo is just one of the many candidates releasing glamorous promotional shots and getting dressed in opulent creations from internationally-renowned designers. It's clear that each contestant is putting her best foot forward! Miss Thailand Amanda Obdam made waves in her Barbie-esque ensembles. Now, Miss Canada Nova Stevens has delivered two electrifying couture looks, and both were created by Filipino designers!
The first gown, a staggering tulle confection in white, was created by designer Jaggy Glarino.
Jaggy explains that the gown was not made specifically for Nova, but was created to be a part of his L'émancipation bridal collection, which aims to revolutionize the traditional conception of Filipino wedding dresses.
"Like everyone else, this pandemic is and has slowly been burning me out, and I am certain that everyone feels a similar longing to break free from the constraints that this virus has imposed upon us. In a way, this piece was inspired by my 'rebellious' thoughts. I wanted to encourage brides to be more expressive of their personal style and perhaps propose a different take on bridal dressing in the Philippines as opposed to the usual lace and beaded appliques bridal template," Jaggy said.
Despite not being made for Nova, the gown certainly looked magnificent on her!
"I feel that she represents this piece in so many ways though. I mean, she is set to step foot in the Miss Universe stage ready to forge the changes that [are] timely, and, in truth, were long overdue. She and this piece [are] a perfect match, if I may say so."
According to Jaggy, the lavish gown is comprised of a whopping 360 yards of fabric, and took 350 hours of work to complete.
"Logistics has been the biggest challenge in creating this piece. From finding the right materials and suppliers (without having to physically see and touch fabrics, I had to decide on everything virtually and that is a huge challenge for sure), to shipping this huge garment. Shipping packages abroad proved to be way more challenging this pandemic," he said.
The second gown is a textured, layered gown in a vibrant mango color, created by none other than Michael Cinco. In an interiew, Michael shares that it was Nova who favored the vivid yellow hue. The designer adds that she thinks Miss Canada looks stunning in his creation.
With her statuesque figure and flawless skin, Nova Stevens looked otherworldly in both creations. These gowns leave no doubt about the world-class level of Filipino talent.
Couture Maison Glarino by Jaggy Glarino @maisonglarino by @jaggyglarino
Produced by MICHAEL CINCO @michael5inco @michaelcinco5
Photography Adam Browning Hill @browning_hill VideographyMangemong Abad @mangemong
Creative Direction Rhon Balagtas @rhonbalagtas
Styling and Accessories Gian Gerente and Ronan Opina@giangerente@ronan_1972
Hair And Make-Up Jhajha Rivera @jhajhamakeupartist
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