The countdown to the most-awaited pageant of the year begins!
Metro.Style cover girl Catriona Gray is now in Bangkok, Thailand representing the Philippines for the annual Miss Universe pageant. The veteran beauty queen has been nailing the competition so far, serving us gorgeous, covet-worthy looks we all want to cop. The best part? She's been wearing proudly Filipino-made outfits to pay homage to the local fashion industry!
One look that's been getting a lot of attention is the parol-inspired ensemble she wore to the National Costume segment—photos of the 24-year-old beauty queen quickly went viral! Unknown to many, however, Catriona experienced a wardrobe malfunction during the costume segment.
"My parol was meant to light up but for some reason—I don't know why—before the show, I was trying to turn it on, and it wouldn't turn on," the Philippines' bet said during an Instagram Live. "I tried to turn it on again, and it did turn on twice in a row, so then I left it. And then just before I went up onstage, I tried to turn it on again and again and it wasn't working."
Despite the unfortunate circumstances, Catriona was able to gracefully carry her look, delivering an unforgettable style moment—just like a true queen!
Everything you need to know about Catriona Gray's national costume
The Miss Universe Philippines' statement costume was the brainchild of the renowned Jearson Demavivas. According to the designer's Instagram post, Catriona's costume was inspired by the three island groups of the Philippines.
Luzon was represented by the parol, a uniquely Filipino Christmas lantern. It was framed by a brass border made in Apalit, Pampanga, which was inspired by the Philippine Baroque Churches that were declared as UNESCO Heritage Sites. Inscribed on the back of the parol are lyrics from "Lupang Hinirang" (the national anthem) written in Baybayin (the pre-Hispanic Filipino Alphabet). The paintings at the back were inspired by the works of Philippine National Artist Carlos "Botong" Francisco, who was born in Angono, Rizal, the Art Capital of the country, and featured Pinoy elements like historical victories, events, heroes, and national icons.
Visayas was showcased through a body suit featuring "tattoo designs" embellished with crystals. These derived from patterns used by the pintados, indigenous peoples found in various islands in this part of the Philippines. These patterns were based on the "Boxer Codex"—a manuscript written in 1590 containing illustrations of Philippine ethnic groups before the Spaniards conquered the islands. According to the designer, these tattoos represent an individual's journey and act as public testimonies to recount acts of combat, bravery, and strength. "[These] perfectly represent the courageous and resilient Filipino spirit amidst trials we face in this day and age," Jearson quipped.
Finally, Mindanao was represented by an authentic headpiece and brass accessories created in South Cotabato. Catriona also donned embroidered knee-high boots inspired by different indigenous textile patterns from the south—Inaul, Yakan, Maranao, B'laan, Bagobo, Tausug, and T'nalak.
This beautiful, well-crafted costume is truly something we Filipinos can take pride in. Good luck on the competition, Catriona!
