LOOK: Miss Universe 2022 R'Bonney Gabriel's winning gown was made by a Filipino designer
Filipino-American beauty queen R'Bonney Gabriel brought USA its 9th Miss Universe crown on Sunday, January 15 in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.
The 28-year-old accepted the crown in a velvet form-fitting gown which was designed by fellow Filipino designer Rian Fernandez, the same designer for her preliminary evening gown.
On Instagram, Fernandez shared the meaning of the gown, which he named "Phenomenal Queen."
He said that the color black represents "competence and sophistication," while the gunmetal accents "epitomize strength and remarkable resilience" of the beauty queen.
Fernandez also noted that the black onyx and the glass mirror details symbolize reflection and self growth, adding that the fringe skirt and blue sapphire Swarovski stones stand for the movement of live and "the new era of emerging women," respectively.
"Truly this piece is a vivid portrayal of a phenomenal Queen!!!" he wrote.
In a recent interview with Dyan Castillejo, Gabrielle, a fashion designer herself, shared that Fernandez has designed all of her gowns since Miss USA 2022.
"I just wanted to stick to people that I trust and love working with," she told the host.
