Crafted by the late avant-garde designer Rocky Gatharcole, Team Rain X Em share how Rabiya Mateo’s Miss Universe national costume came to life.
Related: MEGA’s Picks for Stand-Out National Costumes at the 69th Miss Universe
Inspired by the Philippine flag, Rabiya Mateo wore bigger than life wings in striking red and blue to for the 69th Miss Universe national costume competition. Wearing strappy high heel platforms in the same colors, the Illonga beauty queen walked in confidence even if her wings weighed 21 kilos. One of the last creations of world-renowned designer Rocky Gatharcole before he passed away, this ensemble was every bit of local pride and master talent found within the Filipino fashion industry.
Read below the inspiring story behind Rabiya Mateo’s national costume posted by her styling team, Team Rain x Em:
From the traditional choices of a terno to taking inspiration from Philippines cultures such as the vita or sarimanok, this is however the first time that the Philippine flag was chosen to be the inspiration for the national costume of the Miss Universe Philippines representative. According to the styling duo the national flag was chosen to remind Filipinos of our values and true identity.
Despite the late Rocky Gatharcole not being able to witness the national costume in its full form due to his passing March 3, 2021, it was his own hard work that sewed and built every single detail from the stones to the feathers. Leaving a legacy behind, this year’s national costume will forever carry on his name, passion and talent.
A celebration of Filipinos by the Filipino, the 69th Miss Universe national costume is a cause to raise our flag high and proud because we as nation will always soar above every obstacle that life may throw at us.
