Moments before stepping out onto the stage, Philippine bet Michelle Dee officially unveiled her national costume for Miss Universe 2023.
Michelle shared a video on Instagram, showcasing her national costume. The video was captured prior to her departure for El Salvador to participate in the pageant.
With confidence, Michelle proudly displayed the national costume crafted by Michael Barassi.
In the caption, she highlighted three significant inspirations for her pilot and airplane-themed attire: promoting Filipino tourism through the airplane theme, celebrating the rich heritage of Filipino culture with the solihiya pattern, and paying tribute to her role as an Air Force reservist with the captain’s hat.
She wrote: “In the grand tapestry of the Philippines comes a National costume as stunning as its archipelago.
“Behold, Sergeant Michelle Marquez Dee, Miss Universe Philippines, adorned in the nation’s pride and heritage.
“With each thread woven into the ‘solihiya’ pattern, an iconic design used in the tropics of the Philippines, it embraces her body flawlessly — unfolding the story of the islands’ unity and artistry. [Philippine flag emoji]
“Rising from her back, wings bear the colors of the Philippine flag and a mural of it’s most breathtaking sights while parading the country’s official tourism slogan: #LoveThePhilippines.
“Crowned with a captain’s hat, this is a salute to her role as an Air Force reservist and to our boundless adventures awaiting in the skies!
“This National Costume represents the Philippines itself — resilient, radiant and ready to embrace the Universe! #72MISSUNIVERSE
“Wearing an amazing creation by @barassimichael!
“Giving justice to a concept that aims to promote tourism to the country WE ARE PROUD TO SHOWCASE TO THE UNIVERSE. #CaptainMMD, over and out. [emoji]”
In the comment section, various celebrities expressed their support for Michelle.
Among those who showed their encouragement were Julie Anne San Jose, Mary Jean Lastimosa, David Guison, Mela Habijan, Janeena Chan, Janina Manipol, Martin Bautista, Steven Doloso, and numerous others.
The pageant’s national costume show is happening on Thursday night, November 16, 2023 (November 17 in the Philippines), at the National Gymnasium in San Salvador, El Salvador.
Fans have the opportunity to cast their votes for the winner of the Best in National Costume award through the Miss Universe App.
