To say that we are blown away by Michelle Dee’s golden national costume for the Miss World 2019 pageant is a complete understatement. How can we describe in words the mesmerizing beauty of her Francis Libiran gown which transformed her into a Philippine Sun Goddess?
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Michelle shared photos of herself wearing the piece on her Instagram account. “What a time to be Pinoy!” she wrote on the post.
Francis, who has designed many couture and wedding ensembles throughout his 20-year career, also shared the idea behind the gown which he called “The Philippine Sun Princess” on his Instagram page.
“Miss World Philippines Michelle Dee’s Francis Libiran couture national costume is a symbolic work of art and labor of love,” he said. “This state-of-the-art version of the Philippine Terno is a celebration and preservation of rich Filipino culture. The design of the Sun on the collar is inspired by the Sun of the Philippine national Flag, customized in Francis Libiran signature intricate Art Deco embroidery. It is a symbol of optimism, positivity and courage.”
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He continued: “The custom embroidery pattern is inspired by the historic Visayan tattoo called ‘Batek’. They were found in the earliest illustrations of our Visayan warriors in the 16th-century Boxer Codex. To our ancestors, Batek symbolized bravery and triumph.”
“This well-crafted wearable art piece is made of fine soft tulle, intricately embroidered with custom embroidery and hand-made beadwork,” he added.
(ALSO READ: Here’s the Meaning Behind the Gown Catriona Gray Wore For Her Final Walk as Miss Universe)
Miss World 2019 will be held on December 14 in London at 10 PM Manila time.
Michelle has already been guaranteed a spot in the Top 40 candidates after she won in the Head to Head challenge where she spoke about her advocacy of autism awareness.
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