Now it can be told.
Days before the presentation and competition for Best in National Costume of the 2022 Miss International recently held in Japan, Filipino iconic fashion designer Albert Figueras requested media to refrain from reporting that he made the costume for 2022 Miss Italy Beatrice de Ronch.
During the parade of national costume, though, one of the most applauded frocks was Beatrice’s Roman warrior-inspired gown.
“Now, puwede nang isulat. Kasi, may batas ang Miss International na huwag na huwag ipapakita o ipapahayag ang mga hitsura ng national costume at kung sino ang gumawa ng mga ito. Puwede kasing makasuhan ang maglabas o ma-preempt ang national costume presentation (It’s okay to write about it. It’s because there’s a rule in the Miss International that publicity or showing the national costume of each contestant and its designer isn’t allowed. One can be sanctioned by it),” disclosed Albert.
Although Miss Italy didn’t win the award, she was happy and proud she was able to wear Figueras’ creations including her evening gowns and casual wear.
“Matagal ko ring inisip kung ang konsepto ng Roman warrior na kasuotan at kung paano ko gagawin ‘yon. Nag-research ako at nabuo ang konsepto (It took a while to conceptualize the Roman warrior garb and how would I do it. I researched a lot and it was done),” said Albert.
Miss Germany Jasmin Selberg bagged the 2022 Miss International title while Miss Uzbekistan Nigina Fakhriddinova won Best in National Costume.
Miss Philippines’ Hannah Arnold, meanwhile, finished Top 15 in the competitive pageant.