The reigning Miss Universe 2022 R'Bonney Gabriel put a spotlight on Pinoy talent as she hosted the Miss Universe 2023 preliminaries.
Read: 14 evening gown standouts at Miss Universe 2023 preliminaries
The event was held on November 15, 2023 (CST) at the José Adolfo Pineda Arena in San Salvador, El Salvador.
Looking stunning as always, the 29-year-old beauty queen bedazzled fans in a silver-beaded gown created by Filipino designer Rian Fernandez.
The handcrafted formal wear boasted leaf-shaped crystals that shimmered in a celestial dance of silver, white, and sapphire hues.
R'Bonney's look was completed by a gathered high bun hairstyle and an elegant make-up by celebrity makeup artist Miguel Crespo of MUBA Cosmetics.
Read: Miss Universe 2023 candidates who wore Filipino-made gowns at the preliminaries
HISTORY OF THE GOWN
The dress may seem familiar to pageant fan since R'Bonney wore it first when she competed at the Miss Texas USA 2021, where she secured the 1st runner-up position.
It was modified by removing the sheer cape.
Taking to Instagram on November 16, Rian reposted a story featuring the re-worn dress with this caption: "The Gown that always deserved a Crown is on the largest Pageant Stage in the world!!!
"Vintage one of a kind Gown for the Queen"
Throughout her entire pageant journey, the Filipino-American titleholder has been working closely with Rian for her ensembles.
It can be recalled that the Filipino designer was behind the shoulder-studded velvet gown adorned with gunmetal accents and black onyx that R'Bonney wore during her crowning moment as Miss Universe 2022.
Rian was also the genius behind four other gowns that paved R'Bonney's way to the crown.
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