EXCLUSIVE: Here's Everything You Need To Know About This Patriotic Gown At Miss World Philippines!
It's been almost a week since the recently concluded Miss World Philippines, but everyone's still talking about the patriotic blue dress worn by Alyssa Muhlach Alvarez, who was crowned Reina Hispanoamericana Filipinas.
Embellished with a Swarovski beadwork of the Philippine map at the back, the royal blue ensemble was created by Filipino haute couture designer Benj Leguiab, who describes his aesthetic as "sexy and revealing, but always classy and elegant". He further adds that his signature pieces always offer something new—more than the details and the design, he makes sure his creations will bring out confidence in each of his clients.
In an exclusive interview with Metro.Style, the designer shares everything you need to know about the patriotic dress that went viral overnight. "It was a challenge but it was also something new to me," he quips with excitement. "Since then, I've been surprising people while discovering new trends!"
For your dose of fashion fix, read on!
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1. The color blue represents Alyssa Alvarez' anti-child abuse advocacy
"I designed this gown based on Alyssa's personality and passion," explains Benj, who was very much inspired by his love for the Philippines. "We collaborated on this project; she wanted something patriotic, and I saw her dedication and true love for her advocacy—to help children in need."
Alyssa works closely with Gentle Hands Inc., a safe place of healing for children in need. Fueled by her passion for child abuse prevention, Alyssa chose to wear blue at the pageant to promote her advocacy. We thought it was a wise, heart-warming move. After all, blue is a universal symbol for child abuse prevention—remember the blue ribbons worn by Kapamilya stars at the ABS-CBN Ball to promote the Bantay Bata 163 children's village?
2. The standout dress took one month to make.
"It was a bit rushed, but we finished it!" beamed the designer with pride. The dress was handcrafted with love, from the beading to the back details, using only highend materials (Swarovski and Japanese bead glass, no less)!
"I was so confident to work with Alyssa because I didn’t feel pressured," shares Benj. "In fact, we had a good relationship, and I felt like we were just friends. I also got to know her mom, Almira. They are both so happy and thankful for this project."
3. The masterpiece costs as much as an SUV.
"But of course, I'm open to negotiate for a reasonable cost," the designer quipped.
For never-before-seen photos of the making of this iconic dress, scroll through this gallery!
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Lead photos via Benj Leguiab and Bong Tan