When Miss Universe Candidates Wears Mindanao Tapestry and Its Beyond Gorgeous AF

Miss Universe Candidates Wears Mindanao Tapestry
Would you know that these tapestries takes 3 to 15 days to finish?
As much as I want to cover one of Miss Universe event, (I can’t because of uber high-prized ticket and sold-out!!) as it is one of the biggest milestone of my country, I am always on a high spirit whenever Philippines are getting a good promotions from outside the country.

I was also got excited when last 19th of January when 29-candidates of Miss Universe flew to Davao City and had a chance to wear the gorgeous dresses for the Mindanao Tapestry Show held at SMX Convention Center Davao SM Lanang.

All designed by renowned Filipino Fashion Designers, the dresses are proudly showcased in a runway, making the world to see the beauty of the traditional weaving, created by the women of native tribes in Mindanao, painstakingly weaving the fabric for 3 to 15 days, depends on the stitches and designs of the fabric.


Mindanao Tapestry


Yes it is a tough job and these native women are geniuses in creating these fabric. I myself got to awe when I met some of the weavers back in 2016 during the Manila FAME Exhibition I’ve attended. And I’ve seen that it is difficult to make.

If you find crocheting and cross-stitching are difficult, then traditional weaving is 5 times fold difficult!

Traditional weaving in Mindanao dates back hundreds of years ago, and I am so happy to witness their hands doing the magic. I also wished that this tradition wouldn’t vanished in our memory and hoping that the new generations of weavers will continue the traditions.

Their methods are divine, and I find their skills as a precious gift from nature.

And these gorgeous candidates are also lucky to wear these stunning dresses created by Filipino talents.


Miss Universe Candidates Wears Mindanao Tapestry


The fashion show was held at SMX Convention Center feauted the 6 looks representing the Six (6) regions of Mindanao: T'boli Weaves, Indigenous Cross-Stitches, Yakan Weaves, Tribal Weaves of Bukidnon, Royal Garb of Mandaya Tribe, and Inaul Ball Gowns of Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao.


Miss Universe Candidates Wears Mindanao Tapestry

Miss Universe Candidates Wears Mindanao Tapestry
Inaul Ball Gowns of Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao.

Inaul is a Maguindanaoan hand-woven fabric/textile which is traded and is worn by contemporary women in predominantly Muslim communities as well as the royalties and other people from many walks of life in their various social functions. It usually take 3-15 days to finish an Inaul fabric depending on the complexity of the design and pattern.


Miss Universe Candidates Wears Mindanao Tapestry

Miss Universe Candidates Wears Mindanao Tapestry


The Mindanao people are very and ecstatic during this fashion show including these ten (10) Davao-based designers are very proud, namely; Alfonso Boy Guinoo, Aztec Barba, Dodjie Batu, Emi Englis, Egay Ayag, Benjie Panizales, Edgar Buyan, Wilson Limon, Silverio Anglacer, and Kenny Ladaga.


Miss Universe Candidates Wears Mindanao Tapestry


And these ladies – Miss USA Deshauna Barber, Miss Switzerland Dijana Cvijetic, Miss India Roshmitha Harimurthy, Miss Bulgaria Violina Ancheva, Miss Sierra Leone Hawa Kamara, Miss Paraguay Andrea Melgarejo, Miss Tanzania Jihan Dimack, Miss Myanmar Htet Htet Htun, Miss Hungary Veronika Bodizs, and Miss Philippines Maxine Medina wore their designs.


Miss Universe Candidates Wears Mindanao Tapestry

Miss Universe Candidates Wears Mindanao Tapestry


Of course the renowned Filipino Fashion designer and legend Mother Renee Salud also showcased her gorgeous designed dresses, and proudly modelled by Miss Argentina Estefania Bernal, Miss Belgium Stephanie Gelfdof, Miss China Li Zhenying, Miss Ecuador Connie Jimenez, Miss Kazakhstan Darina Kulsitova, Miss Mexico Kristal Silva, Miss Russia Yuliana Korolkova, Miss Ukraine Alena Spodynyuk, Miss Czech Republic Andrea Bezdekova, Miss Guyana Soyini Fraser, Miss Honduras Sirey Moran, Miss Singapore Cheryl Chou, Miss Slovak Republic Zuzana Kollarova, Miss Turkey Tansu Cakir, Miss Venezuela Mairam Habach, Miss Indonesia Kezia Warouw, Miss Namibia Lizelle Esterhuizen, and Miss Nigeria Unoaku Anyadike.


Miss Universe Candidates Wears Mindanao Tapestry

Miss Universe Candidates Wears Mindanao Tapestry


Miss Universe Candidates Wears Mindanao Tapestry


Pardon me, but they all looked like the living Barbie dolls walking around with these gorgeous dresses on the runway. The designed are exquisite, one of a kind and fit for these ladies representing their countries all over the world.

Photo credits: Philip Cuison Photography


*****


64th Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach crowning the 65th Miss Universe Iris Mittenaere
64th Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach crowning the 65th Miss Universe Iris Mittenaere

BTW, Congratulations to Miss France Iris Mittenaere for winning this year’s crown!

65th Miss Universe Iris Mittenaere

It was yesterday when Miss France Iris Mittenaere was been crown as the new 65th Miss Universe, and I honestly so excited and happy! Although my original bets didn’t win the final three, it’s okay because these three ladies together with Miss Columbia Andrea Tovar and Miss Haiti Raquel Pelissier, are so gorgeous and very smart, that even I as a Filipino is also proud.


Lesson learned from Iris: When you failed, stand up and elevated yourself, and keep on moving.



xoxo, Blair



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118 comments :

  1. Wow the outfits are so stunning and a lot of the print reminds me of print that I bought in Ghana and had dresses made with. The women all look amazing and I would love to see this live!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. They are all gorgeous Sheri, and also the textiles that was been used for these dresses, all handmade!

      Delete
  2. This tapestry is absolutely gorgeous, I've never seen anything like it!

    xo, Helene
    www.circleskirtsandpetticoats.wordpress.com

    ReplyDelete
  3. That's so amazing! My father was born in Surigao City on Mindanao. I'm so happy to see that designers from the Philippines got to participate in an event that has so much exposure.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes and I am happy too! There are many instances that the designers in the main city are always presented. And this time is the best chance to showcase the talents from Mindanao. I am proud to be a Filipino :D

      Delete
  4. Oh my, how can one not fall in love with these tapestry gowns? I am happy for the Philippines for this opportunity to promote the country further in the global arena.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes, and we've received many positive feedback. The people push their efforts to welcome the guests and we are happy with their feedbacks.

      Delete
  5. Wow! All of them are so so gorgeous. Congrats to Miss France.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Now she will enjoy the awesome perks of being the Queen - chic New York apartment, lots of clothes, shoes, OMG most of the ladies wants!

      Delete
  6. What gorgeous dresses. I absolutely LOVE all the different colors. All these ladies are so pretty.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you dear! Keep on browsing for more Philippine fashion.

      Delete
  7. Absolutely loved all their outfits on the platform. And I do agree with you on the barbie doll part- they look stunning on overall :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh I wish that Miss Universe Organization should make a Barbie doll memorabilia :)

      Delete
  8. Gosh, those are really pretty pieces. Now i wish i own one tapestry dress of my own T.T

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Aliza,

      When you visit the Philippines, you may add Davao City to your itinerary and visit the local weavers :)

      Delete
  9. I must say, I am proud to be from Mindanao, These dresses they are wearing are so gorgeous.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Wow that's awesome, Anna! Which part of Mindanao are you?

      Delete
  10. Those dresses are gorgeous. I had no idea there was so much work that it takes days to make but making things with intricate detail and by hand explains it.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Rose,

      Yah that's why we treasure these kind of textiles :) Time and sweat have capitalized just to make these gorgeous dresses.

      Delete
  11. Those dresses are so beautiful! It's amazing to see how they make them all by hand.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Brenda,

      If I could afford these dresses, I will definitely buy one and wear it proudly.

      Delete
  12. I love watching all the fashion during the Miss Universe Pageant. They always look so beautiful. I love the lesson learned from Iris, to elevate yourself with you feel like you've failed.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yeah and I believe Iris will inspire many people in the world. The Filipinos love her!

      Delete
  13. omg!!!! i love love love their dresses!!! i didn't get the chance to watch it live.. must catch a repeat!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. There will be a replay too! Stand-by for the schedule :)

      Delete
  14. The gowns are gorgeous! The look like couture gowns!! They are so colorful and fit each contestant so well. Beautiful!

    Beth || www.TheStyleBouquet.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you Beth! I applaud for these ladies for wearing the Filipino designed dresses :)

      Delete
  15. Omg every last contestant looked fabulous!!!! Just love that whole look they went with the dreses

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Exactly Courtneylynne! And they are all smart too :)

      Delete
  16. If Scarlett O'Hara could do it, why not models. I like some of these. A few are a bit humorous.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hahaha yeah, its because that's the traditional wear of early Filipinos, with feathers and stuffs.

      Delete
  17. Thank you so much for showing us behind-the-scenes at the pageant and the workshops that construct these beautiful works of art! The workmanship and time that must go into every piece is so impressive. What a beautiful culture!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you dear, hope you could visit the Philippines too and experience our beautiful cultures and traditions.

      Delete
  18. I loved those Inaul Ball Gowns! Each piece looks so vibrant and colorful and all the ladies look like princesses wearing them!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you Ana,

      The women weavers are very happy that their creations are being modelled by these gorgeous ladies.

      Delete
  19. Wow! The process to make these. Incredible! They are all stunning. Thank you for pictures of the gowns. The colors are exquisite. I love this!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. And thank you for visiting me website. Truly I appreciate it :)

      Delete
  20. those outfits were definitely stunning... i would love to be able to get one of those dresses....

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Me to Meira! I would be one of the happiest lady in my city :)

      Delete
  21. These dresses are absolutely gorgeous and so intricate. These women did an amazing job making them!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you Danielle!

      I hope that these fabric will be known globally.

      Delete
  22. Wow, what an amazing fashion event! All ladies look like princesses in these marvelous dresses! Filipino fashion designers are so talented! I wish I watched the show live!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Eugenia,

      Yeah they are all beautiful and the designer are truly talented. I wish that more Filipino fashion designers will be recognized outside the country. We have so much to offer to the fashion world.

      Delete
  23. These tapestry looks so stunning on the Miss Universe candidates and I dont know it takes so long and so much effort to make. Wish the new generations will continue creating beautiful tapestry and keep the weaving tradition going.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes, to new generations especially their kids are learning the crafts.

      Delete
  24. The dresses were stunning. I enjoyed seeing the various mixes of colors and textures.

    ReplyDelete
  25. So much detail and beauty!!! I absolutely love every single piece! So breathtaking.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Me too! I wish to visit Davao and have one of this dresses!

      Delete
  26. The images and dresses are so beautiful, thanks for sharing this.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You're welcome Helen, please feel free to navigate our website for more fashion tips!

      Delete
  27. wow this is so intricate must be taking so much time to make a full gown! very beautiful craft!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. yes that is why I gave huge respect to the local craftswomen :)

      Delete
  28. The dresses are gorgeous! I wish I could wear them too hehe

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Dear!

      OMG Me too! But I heard that the fabric is quite heavy, but I don't mind. I just want to try it on. If only I could rent that one :)

      Delete
  29. Wow the dresses are just so gorgeous and detailed. I wish I could play dress up and wear this!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I was thinking that I could volunteer as a living model for a day just to have an opportunity to wear these amazing dresses!

      Delete
  30. beautiful women. so nicely taken pictures as well. My first time to your blog and I already like it.

    ReplyDelete
  31. Such beauty in all the pictures you've shared. I love the creativity of all of their outfits!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you Jay! Yeah the local woman who painstakingly weave those fabrics are the true heroes :D

      Delete
  32. Oh wow! Those are stunning pieces!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I agree! I hope that our Philippine traditional fabrics will be recognized worldwide. We have many talents waiting to be discovered!

      Delete
  33. Wow, those are gorgeous - the designs are so intricate! I loved the ball gowns best, personally - they really showed off the fabrics.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I agree with you Brandi, OMG I want to wear these dresses AF

      Delete
  34. Those dresses are all so beautiful! I love the story behind them as well!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you Jessi! There will be many dresses I will share very soon so stay tuned :D

      Delete
  35. I am drooling over these fashions. They are truly works of art.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you Helene! What's your top 3 favourites? :)

      Delete
  36. i think what i like more about the outfits that the candidates are wearings def are the colors and texture. they represent something and i love that, how it looks so cultural

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The moment you wear a dress that is being created by local weavers and spend days to finished, it was magical :) I admire them all!

      Delete
  37. All the collections are so beautiful! I love the vibrant colors and cool prints.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I agree Glenda.

      These kind of dresses are not just piece of clothing - these are work of art and best treasured!

      Delete
  38. Wow absolutely gorgeous dresses. Having been in pageants myself, it's always nice to have beautiful clothes to show off.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. So true Kimberly! Nothings more exciting than wearing your favorite dress and walk like you own the runway :)

      Delete
  39. What a fantastic post and a fabulous event! i love all the wonderful designs and colours, and the beautiful ladies!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you Donna!

      I hope that these ladies will come back here in the Philippines because my people love them all :)

      Delete
  40. Oh my goodness, there are so many gorgeous gowns created from the tapestries that the weavers in Mindanao! These women are so very talented!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Jessica,

      Yeah and even am a crafter myself I could never create such beautiful fabrics like these. I need many years of experiences! They are all Masters.

      Delete
  41. These are some beautiful dresses! One would looked dressed to the nines if they wore one on a cruise ship!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. lol so true... I will feel like royalty if I have a chance to wear one of these gorgeous dresses.

      Delete
  42. Wow! These dresses are amazing and absolutely gorgeous. Thanks for sharing how they are made.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. your are welcome and thank you for visiting my page!

      Delete
  43. Wow those tapestry pieces are beautiful! I could only imagine how difficult it is to create all the different patterns.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You have to sit all day and night in front of the weaving loom :)

      Delete
  44. These creations are simply stunning! I can't decide on a favorite one, but I can say that the long dresses are awesome <3

    ReplyDelete
  45. Wow, what stunning looks! They really do look like Barbie Dolls.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I agree with you Shelby! These ladies from different countries shows their full support for this initiative.

      Delete
  46. WOW gorgeous the women and the dresses. I can't imagine the detail that has to go into creatin gsuch beautiful clothing

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The details and patterns makes these dresses luxurious!

      Delete
  47. I love love love this! I think that fashion designers should try to do this more, especially when it is their own culture. It supports traditional textiles, and keeps the culture alive, while making it modern at the same time. It is amazing.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you Aireona,

      Not only the designers should make the move. We us consumers should also started buying and wearing this textiles to help grow the industry.

      Delete
  48. Stunning is an understatement!!! Love, love, love and yes what a gift to have that talent!

    ReplyDelete
  49. Those dresses are so pretty! I want a dress! I will look so hot and glamours washing dishes and changing diapers lol!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. LOL That's cool Hil! No one have said we can't be look glamorous while hitting the dishes :)

      Delete
  50. That's absolutely gorgeous! I don't think I could pull off wearing a tapestry.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Of course you can Chava. Thank you for visiting and keep on browsing my blog :)

      Delete
  51. What a beautiful dress collection! I love fashion shows and these were stunning :)

    ReplyDelete
  52. You will always feel this sense of pride when your country is chosen to represent something. I think these dresses are gorgeous. They deserve much recognition for the hard work that they poured into making these lovely gowns.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you so much Elizabeth! My local women weavers are so proud that they fabrics are being known worldwide. I hope that many consumers will patronize their works too.

      Delete
  53. Those dresses are beyond beautiful. It's awesome that the Miss Universe candidates got to model them. I love that they're all handmade! So amazing!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Indeed and they are all breathtaking. Thank you so much for taking time appreciating these beautiful artworks!

      Delete
  54. Wow, the dresses are so intricate and beautiful. I grew up in the Philippines so I definitely recognize some of those patterns and every time my mom visits there, she always brings me back something like that!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Nicole, and glad you also like the Philippine designs :)

      Delete
  55. Definitely some beautiful fabric and outfits! They must have taken forever to make!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Well some takes 30days to finished the fabrics :) but still depending on the measurements.

      Delete
  56. Se manifique!!! what vibrant colors and creations. Great fashion choices, the photo journal and descriptions are impressive

    ReplyDelete
  57. I love how they incorporated traditional weaving into the competition! I love the big dresses that poof out.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you Nina! You can wear it in gala night and its a head-turner :)

      Delete
  58. I am not much into fashion but when I see your post about this, I get so interested. If I were one of those models, I would feel very lucky to have been given the opportunity to wear those impressive tapestries from Mindanao. I agree that they are indeed exotic. It is something that we Filipinos should always be proud of.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you dear! I do hope that many Filipinos will patronize and do wear tapestries :)

      Delete
  59. Wow how absolutely beautiful these dresses (and women!) are!

    ReplyDelete

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