The Philippines’ bet, Gazini Ganados, showcased Filipino creativity from Cebu at the Miss Universe preliminary and national costume competitions held in Atlanta, Georgia on December 6 (December 7 in the Philippines).
The 23-year-old Cebuana-Palestinian beauty strutted on the Miss Universe stage wearing a gown designed by Cebu-based Cary Santiago who is known for his “fabric manipulation” technique.
Miss Philippines shimmered in a strikingly unique golden Phoenix gown, with a similar pattern to the gown she was wearing when she won the title of Miss Universe Philippines at the Araneta Coliseum in June, but with a more elaborate design and on the chest part, smaller wings.
For the national costume competition, Miss Universe Philippines paraded on stage a silver and intricately designed costume inspired by the country’s national bird, the Philippine eagle, with two life-size birds on both of her shoulders.
The costume was created by Cary Santiago, the same designer who made her golden Phoenix gown. Santiago teased on December 6 about his creations for the Pinay beauty queen.
“I created a national costume that is somehow worthy for an international event,” Santiago said on his social media.
“I took my inspiration from our national bird. The design is not as flamboyant but the details are very intricate. It’s hand-stitched all coming from the same fabric with my signature laser-cut patterns.”
Right after the competition, the aspiring Miss Universe candidate went on social media to thank Santiago for his creativity and dedication.
“It is with deep honor,” Gazini wrote, “to showcase our national pride during the Miss Universe National costume show, the Philippine Eagle whose strength, power, and love for freedom exemplifies the Filipino people.
“Created by the master couturier Mama @carysantiago @carysantiago7. Proud to have showcased your masterpieces in the Miss Universe stage. Your passion, dedication, and love for our country is admirable.
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Ganados’ national costume earned praises from pageant fans and even from the international Filipino designers who tagged it as one of the best national costumes a Philippine candidate has brought to the Miss Universe stage.
World-renowned Dubai-based designer Michael Cinco posted his commendation through a comment saying: “For me it’s one of the best National Costumes in Miss Universe history ever…Cary Santiago @carysantiago is the master of haute couture…to the highest level…”
Mark Bumgarner also had high praises for Cary Santiago and added emojis on his comment on social media.
Ganados aims to duplicate Catriona Gray‘s feat in the 2018 Miss Universe pageant to win a back-to-back victory for the Philippines during the finals and coronation night on December 8 (December 9 in the Philippines).
To help Gazini Ganados to win the Best National Costume Award, log in to vote.missuniverse.com, click VOTE NOW and find Miss Philippines No. 70.
VOTE and SEND well wishes to Miss Philippines Gazini Ganados as she vies for the Miss Universe title!
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