EXCLUSIVE: The Collaboration Between Catriona Gray and Mak Tumang, Designer Of The Winning Long Gown
Apart from her impressive Q&A eloquence and dedication, Catriona Gray is quite a fashion inspiration, as befits the crowned Miss Universe-Philippines 2018 in this year’s Bb. Pilipinas pageant. Having won many coveted special awards, including the Best In Long Gown, we’re all checking her look for some style inspirations, starting with her stunning gold gown.
The designer, Pampanga-born couturier Mak Tumang fondly recalls the collaborations between him and Catriona, which date back to her Miss World endeavors in 2016. Their team work has generally yielded “positive results”, which inevitably lead up to her journey to Bb. Pilipinas 2018.
“We started conceptualizing the gown since December 2017,” says Mak. “The inspiration of the gown is a result of my collaboration with Catriona’s vision of what she wants in a gown, including silhouette, color and texture.”
Although Catriona set the vision, Mak had full reins on the creative process, ultimately creating the favorite evening dress of the night. He explains, “I was given the upper hand to apply my gown construction techniques and attention to details, especially at the back, which inspired by the splatter of waves. [The gown] is made of muted gold minute paillettes, encrusted with more than 10,000 Swarovski crystals.”
Catriona’s win in the long gown category was exciting enough, but then to see her win the Miss Universe-Philippines title altogether was exhilarating. “[My reaction] was surreal and at the same time overwhelmed with happiness that my hard work had paid off. It actually took time to sink in.”, says Mak. “I was literally jumping with joy the moment she won the Bb. Pilipinas-Universe 2018, knowing that I have contributed a part in her victory.”
READ: ‘EXCLUSIVE: You Too Can Get Your Hands On Catriona Gray’s Iconic Ear Cuff—Here’s How!”
And what a victory indeed, but the best is possibly yet to come as Catriona prepares for the Miss Universe 2018 pageant. Can we expect more stunning designs from Mak and Catriona then? He thinks that’s very likely. “Catriona and her team trusted me, and had worked with me comfortably during her Bb. Pilipinas 2018 stint,” he concludes confidently. “I want to believe that I will still be her designer for the Miss Universe 2018.”
Lead photo via @catriona_gray