After days of staying under the radar in low-key and sometimes unconventional outfits that left not a few demanding pageant fans unhappy, the country’s Cebuana bet to Miss Universe made a splash in the crucial preliminary competition in both swimsuit and evening gown segments.
The long wait is over! And for many a pageant fan, it was worth it, even if it meant staying up until the wee hours Saturday morning just to witness Philippine bet to Miss Universe Beatrice Luigi Gomez glide on stage in Francis Libiran’s Venus-cut crimson dress with a parallel triangular cutout on the bodice and pelvic-high slit.
Made primarily of tulle, the sari-like number is adorned with beaded linear patterns that emanate from two points: Bea’s left shoulder and the right side of her body and hip. In lieu of a scarf, which has become Francis’ trademark of late, the look came with a series of strung, beaded and dangling tassels attached to the gown’s left shoulder, which cascaded on her back.
For the most part, the gown was a hit among Filipino pageant fans who raved about its color and the fact that if flattered Bea’s slim and curvy build. The entire look, including its semi-serpentine silhouette, was a total departure from most of Francis’ previous tiered works, which were more sculptural and a tad heavy. It also showed some skin without revealing too much, which was logical, as Bea and the rest of her 79 rivals had just paraded in a previous segment in their swimwear.
“Francis has always incorporated his love for the Philippines in most of his designs,” said Harry Hartman, the designer’s publicist. “This particular red gown reminds us of what red means in our Philippine flag: patriotism and valor. It’s a strong color that radiates a powerful presence, which can hopefully create an impact in Bea’s Miss Universe journey.”
He added: “Bea had creative inputs throughout the course of her consultations with Francis, but she allowed him to take charge with regards to majority of her wardrobe, including her gowns, because she is confident with his signature designs.”
For the first time in decades, the preliminary show was aired at an ungodly hour in the Philippines, which is six hours ahead of Eilat, Israel, venue of this year’s pageant. The top 16 delegates based on their performance in closed door interviews, swimsuit and evening gown will be announced on finals night (Monday morning in Manila). This year’s panel of judges include actress Marian Rivera and Miss Universe 2017 Iris Mittenaere, who has a soft spot for Filipinos for having competed and won in Manila.
Hopes are high that Bea will do well in the finals. And if we’re going to stick to a possible pattern started by Francis and his team, she might come wearing any of the remaining colors of the Philippine flag: blue, white, yellow or its more royal iteration, which is gold. Stay tuned!
