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SASHES AND TIARAS.....Miss Universe 2017 NATIONAL COSTUMES: Sneak Peak of 25 Costumes!

Thai Light Goddess: Miss Universe Thailand Maria Poonlertlarp showcases her national costume fr Miss Universe 2017 during a photoshoot





A HUGE THANK YOU to the FAB National Costumes Instagram for some of the photos!


The 66th edition of Miss Universe--or Miss Universe 2017 --beauty pageant is taking place in Las Vegas Nevada USA at the end of the month with the Finals occurring November 26th. Over 90 contestants are slated to participate in this year's edition (a record number for the pageant!) and have just begun to arrive in Las Vegas for the pageant...






Feathers, Crystals, Flowers and...a Sydney Opera Dress?--Miss Universe 2017 contestants debuting their National Costumes


The National Costumes are always a big part of the Miss Universe pageant and I have been scouring the web to see what they might be wearing and so...here is a "Sneak Peak" of some of the costumes the international constants vying for the title of Miss Universe 2017 have put out there as their National Costumes.

Let's take a look at some of them--I've divided them in geographical regions, staring with...



Asia, the Middle East and Oceania:







Miss Universe Australia Olivia Rogers: Miss Universe Australia's national costume which she debuted on the Australia "Today Show", depicts Australia's most famous landmark--the Sydney Opera House--during the New Year's Eve and Vivid Festival. The mermaid-shaped gown was designed by bridal and couture designer Begitta and as you can see it has lights built in and it glows in the dark.











Miss Universe Indonesia Bunga Jelitha: Miss Universe Indonesia decided to go more Tribal and Message-driven with her national costume for this year's Miss Universe. The look, entitled "The Warrior of Orangutan" was inspired by the endangered orangutans in the jungle of Indonesian Borneo...







It was created by Indonesian designer Rinaldy Yunardi and he was moved by the beauty of the Borneo rain forest and Dayak Heritage. The "rattan" in the costume was made of recycled paper. The costume aspires to portray the Warrior's desire to protect nature. The orangutan is on the Warrior's back just as the Dayak women would cradle their own children with love when venturing out for a hard day's work.







Miss Universe Israel Adar Gandelsman: Miss Universe Israel will be going the "Wonder Woman" route with her national costume. Designed by Aviad Arik Herman, it is a way to give an homage to "Wonder Woman" actress Gal Gadot who hails from...you guessed it: Israel!





Miss Universe Japan Momoko Abe: From Samurai Warrior Goddess to Geisha Kimono Diva! Miss Universe Japan debuted her national costume recently and when she walked up onstage, she started with the Samurai look on the left and in the span of two seconds, she did a turn, flipped something on her shoulders...and VOILA! A glorious and colorful Geisha Robe appeared! If you still don't understand...

Watch the video:









Miss Universe Korea Sewhee Cho: The gorgeous Miss Universe Korea gave a hint of her national costume in this photo which shows a very extravagant Hanbok (traditional Korean dress) worn by a Princess or a very formal bride.







Miss Universe Laos Souphaphone Somvichith: Inspired by the Luang Prabang traditional dress, Miss Universe Laos' national costume is made in beautiful silk using powder pink, lavender as the main colors with gold embroidery, all topped off by a fabulous headdress.









Miss Universe Malaysia Samantha James: One of the most talked about national costumes for the upcoming Miss Universe 2017 Beauty Pageant is this one for Miss Universe Malaysia. The costume is inspired by A DISH...in fact, by Nasi Lemak, the beloved national dish (usually served for breakfast) of Malaysia featuring fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaf. The dress designed by Brian Choo and features hand embroidered rhinestones to symbolize rice grains. On the left side of the dress, there are red rhinestones to symbolize the spicy sambal that accompanies each Nasi Lamak dish. Complete with accessories illustrating other accompaniments such as sliced cucumbers, fried peanuts, anchovies and an egg! Just look at the close-up photo of all the amazing sequin work! Speaking of work, the gown took 400 hours of craftsmanship and a month to make. OK, I could do without the anchovies (me NO LIKEY!) but otherwise, this costume makes me VERY HUNGRY!











Miss Universe Myanmar Zun Thansin: There is always one--or two or three--Miss Universe contestants that "Fall Out" with a SUPER OUTRAGEOUS national costume and so far, it looks as if Miss Universe Myanmar takes this title! Her costume (it's not  just her dress but THE ENTIRE STAGE is part of the costume!) is inspired by Hsaing Waing--Myanmar Traditional Orchestra--a musical ensemble only found in Myanmar and usually played in very formal ceremonies which is composed of 13 traditional musical instruments.











I don't know how she is going to transport this whole "costume" and get it through Customs but I cannot wait to see it onstage! Oh, and in case you're wondering, the "stage" has wheels! This was all designed by designer Dr. Thazin Khin. And God Bless Him!











Miss Universe Nepal Nagma Shrestha: Titled "Embodiment of Spirituality", the first ever Miss Universe Nepal will be wearing this as her national costume. It was designed by Bina Ghale and her dramatic and very impressive headgear depicting a mandala (an ancient confederation marked by cultural, religious and political boundaries which lies in present day Nepal) was designed by Bijay Maharjan.







Miss Universe Singapore Manuela Bruntraeger: So far, all we have is a quick sketch--and the inspiration--for Miss Universe Singapore's national costume. It is inspired by the "Supertree" of Gardens By The Bay in Singapore and was designed by Moe Kasim. It looks like it will be a green sequined jumpsuit (depicting the leaf covered "trunks") and then she'll have a colorful "branches" protruding from the jumpsuit.







Miss Universe Thailand Maria Poonlertlarp--Thai-Swedish Miss Universe Thailand Maria Lynn Ehren--also known as Maria Poonlertlarp--will be wearing this very elaborate and gorgeous costume entitled "Chasing the Light". After that infamous tuk-tuk costume from two years ago , this is a "traditional" change of costume pace!







Designed by Prapakas Ansusingha, the costume is inspired by Thai mythology of Mekkala "the Goddess of Lightening" and Ramasoon "The Thunder God". The entire "costume" comes with the golden doll, which I assume she will roll onto the stage, to complete her national costume look. The incredible headpiece was created by Toi Marilyn.







Miss Universe Vietnam Loan Nguyen--Fans, colorful bands, and rattan conical hats...yes, kids, it's Miss Universe Vietnam's national costume. The stylized Ao Dai is made of natural silk, rattan and  bamboo and was designed by Nguyen Huu Bihn. 



Africa:



Miss Universe Namibia Sune January: Miss Universe Namibia's costume has a message and it is in red rhinestones: "Save Our Rhino". The design includes a strapless fit-and-flare gown with an attached cape displaying the studded message. She accessorized the costume with rhinoceros horn headdress.













Miss Universe South Africa Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters: Nel-Peters’ national costume, which she showed off at her farewell, has been designed by Malikah Hajee and Lloyd Kandlin. The outfit is inspired by Namaqualand daisies, proteas and the map of Africa and is made with diamonds and gold and includes the artistic technique of vitreous enameling. 



Europe:



Miss Universe Austria Celine Schrenk: This is quite a somber departure from that fab Conchita Wurst costume Miss Universe Austria wore back at Miss Universe 2015. But, there's a reason: This national costume is an homage to Baroness Bertha von Suttner, the first woman to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize and the writer of one of the most influential books of the 19th Century, the anti-war novel "Lay Down Your Arms" (1889). The dress was designed by Aviad Arik Herman who has created many of Miss Universe Austria's costumes (including the Conchita Wurst one!), as well as Miss Universe Sweden and this year's Miss Universe Israel "Wonder Woman" costume.





Miss Universe Norway Kaja Caroline Kojan: Kaja gave a hint of her national costume on her social media and it looks like she will be giving Viking Goddess Realness. The costume was designed by Hilde Marie Johansen.





Miss Universe Russia Ksenia Alexandrova: Ksenia showed off her Miss Universe Russia national costume which features a big ballgown skirt, strapless bustier, billowy sleeves and that very iconic Russian headdress. This was inspired by the Sarafan "Boyarka"/Russian folk dress that features those blue hand-painted flowers.



Americas and the Caribbean:





Miss Universe Bolivia Gleysi Noguer: This colorful costume was designed Rommel Rojas and was inspired by Bolivia's national flowers of Cantuta and Patuju. The flowers are seen protruding from her back and wrapped around her arms and were all sewn by hand. The costume also features a cape showing scenes representing all of Bolivia.







Miss Universe Canada Lauren Howe:  Miss Universe Canada 2017 unveiled her national costume through social media. The feathered and sequined design is inspired by the Canadian Rocky Mountains. The look--designed by Bismark Martinez, is entitled "Queen of Ice" and looking at the photos, she sure looks like one!







Miss Universe Ecuador Daniela Cepeda: Miss Universe Ecuador is going all-out Pre-Columbian Indigenous Empress with her national costume. The design represents four distinctive regions in Ecuador: 1) Costa (coastal lowlands); 2) Sierra (the highlands); 3) Oriente (Amazon region); and 4) the Galapagos archipelago. It was designed by Wenceslao Munoz Cedeno.





Miss Universe Guatemala Isel Suniga: Isel's national colorful costume was inspired by the Festival de Sumpango/Festival de Barriletes Gigantes, or Festival of the Gigantic Kites. I'm already making the prediction that this might be one of the most impressive costumes of this year's Miss Universe. I think it's a different way of showcasing these Pre-Columbian feathered-and-sequined costumes that are have been very popular with the Latin American ladies lately.





Miss Universe Guyana Rafieya Husain: Miss Universe Guyana’s costume (sketch above) stands eight feet tall and cascades over 10 yards of beaded silk organza. It is layered with over 20,000 crystals and 100 yards of crystal strands, ending in a plume of white spray. This is all done in a relief asymmetrical design, rich in gold and topaz tones. The piece titled “The Jewel of Guyana”, was designed by Zara Khan and is an artistic depiction of the majestic Kaieteur Falls. Can't wait to see the actual costume!









Miss Universe Nicaragua Berenice Quezada: Designed by Jorge Salazar Caliz, this colorful costume is named "The Slopes of Volcano Mombacho". The area where the volcano is located at is one of the 78 protected areas in Nicaragua and served as the inspiration for this costume, showcasing the variety of flora, fauna and minerals that are abundant in the volcano's area. Mombacho has more than 700 different plants registered including many orchid species. The costume is very colorful and certainly one can see the flora and fauna in it with all those flowers and feathers. And in case you're wondering, the volcano is not extinct but the last eruption occurred back in 1570 so stay tuned...











Miss Universe Puerto Rico Danna Hernandez: Made by hand with the help of an electric generator because there was  no electricity (!), this costume for Miss Universe Puerto Rico depicts the vivid color of red representing the happiness and passion of Puerto Rico. Designed and made by Jaer Caban, the costume is inspired by the Royal Poinciana--also known as "The Flamboyant Tree", the red flowers can be seen in the back "Wings" of her costume. And naturally, she will be proudly holding a sequined flag of Puerto Rico.





Miss Universe Venezuela Keysi Sayago: Venezuela's contestant, Keysi Sayago, revealed her national costume via social media and it is a "Venezuelan Warrior". The costume--which includes a metallic silver jumpsuit-like costume and a very glorious "wing" of the Venezuelan flag--represents the brave Venezuelan women and is described as one who rises to the adversity of the present and the future with great history in its sword (coat of arms), worthy thoughts in the present (Bolivar medal), and fair and balanced, intuitive and spiritual protector and above all free (colorful wings of the macaw). The costume (silver part) is made of mirror acrylics making it look like a metallic shell. The overall effect is this strong, powerful Venezuelan woman ready to fight whatever battles and hardships come her way. It was deigned by Alejandro Fajardo who designed many of the GORGEOUS gowns seen at last week's Miss Venezuela 2017 Beauty Pageant. I love the message and I think the costume makes a bold and powerful statement.



What do you guys think of some of these "Miss Universe 2017" National Costumes? Which ones are YOUR FAVORITES? 

SASHES AND TIARAS.....Miss Venezuela 2017 Finals: Winner + TOP 15 EVENING GOWNS!

La Mas Bella: outgoing "Miss Venezuela 2016" Keysi Sayago crowns the new "Miss Venezuela 2017" Sthefany Gutierrez who was "Miss Delta Amacuro"--Miss Venezuela 2017 Finals, Caracas Venezuela



Some Photos Courtesy of MissVenezuela.com


This Thursday evening was the Finals of  one of the most anticipated beauty pageants in the world: Miss Venezuela 2017! For a short time, many pageant fans even wondered--especially since what the country has been going through--if the pageant would still happen or if they would even send contestants to "Miss Universe" and "Miss World" but Yes, Yes, and Yes, to all those inquiring mind's questions.






Top Three: (L to R) Miss Venezuela International Mariem Velezco, Miss Venezuela 2017 Sthefany Gutierrez and Miss Venezuela World Veruska Ljubisavljevic


Venezuela has the largest oil reserves IN THE WORLD but the oil-rich nation is starving. According to  Reuters , the country's inflation has risen to 826% and according to  The Guardian , 10 million skip a meal a day, 9/10 homes can't cover the cost of food and 3/4 of Venezuelans have lost weight an average of 20 lbs as a result of not being able to feed themselves or buy food. But...THE SHOW MUST GO ON!!! None of the unspeakable hardships happening in the country could stop the 65th Annual Miss Venezuela Beauty Pageant... 








Ayyyy Dios Mio!--Stefhany Gutierrez is the new "Miss Venezuela"--Miss Venezuela 2017 Finals, Caracas Venezuela





Fiesta Time: Celebrating the 65th Anniversary of Miss Venezuela--Venezuelan singer/icon/diva Mirla Castellanos plus entertainers Jordán Mendoza, José Andrés Padrón, Natalia Moretti and Los Boys as well as hosts of the Miss Venezuela 2017 Beauty Pageant


As you may know, I grew up in Caracas Venezuela from the late 60's until the late 70's and it was a much different country than what it is now. But I will always have a special place in my heart for that South American nation. The "Miss Venezuela" Beauty Pageant inspired me to be a designer and to sketch--and particularly draw beautiful women in fabulous gowns. And now, it has inspired me to co-author my new "Pageant Coloring Book".






Sthefany Fernandez "Miss Delta Amacuro" and now, "Miss Venezuela 2017"


Now, speaking of pageants, time to discuss the WINNER as well as all the sequins, crystals and very expensive silk seen in this year's "Miss Venezuela 2017". First the winner: The representative of "Delta Amacuro" Sthefany Gutierrez , beat out 23 other beautiful women to get the coveted George Wittels-designed crown.







Sthefany is ONLY 18 years old (most recent winners have been in their early 20's), stands 176M (5' 9") and works as a model. She does not have the typical blond "Barbie" Miss Venezuela look but was still a favorite with her olive skin, gorgeous long black hair and perfect figure. She will now spend the next 12 months preparing for NEXT YEAR'S edition of Miss Universe (and hopefully learning English, if she doesn't already know it); even though she is "Miss Venezuela 2017", she will compete in the "Miss Universe 2018" Beauty Pageant.








Sequin Parade: Miss Venezuela 2017 contestants during the Evening Gown Competition Fashion Show


And now...THE GOWNS: I have NO IDEA how the Miss Venezuela Organization paid for what it costs to create these Couture-worthy gowns (especially since most Venezuelans can't even buy Harina P.A.N.!) but this year's pageant featured some intricate and UBER Glam gowns, in fact this was one of the BEST "Miss Venezuela" Gown Fashion Shows in a long time! With that said, here are my TOP 15 BEST LIST, starting with my Number One Choice, which just happened to be THE WINNER "Miss Delta Amacuro":









1. Miss Delta Amacuro (and eventual Miss Venezuela 2017 winner) Sthefany Gutierrez--Of all the 24 gowns during the "Miss Venezuela 2017 Desfile de Traje de Noche" (Evening Gown Fashion Show), this strapless sequined gown was my top favorite! The crinoline based gown was completely covered in crystals and featured a sweetheart neckline with a creme silk ziberline inner dress. The gown was designed by Alejandro Fajardo and was stage-impacting, fit gorgeously and looked like Gown Couture Art!

Score: 9.98





2. Miss Distrito Capital Sofia Santa Rodriguez--My second best gown score goes to the design worn by "Miss Distrito Capital" (she represented the capital city of Caracas). This silk gazar ballgown--designed by Alejandro Fajardo (same designer of the winner's gown)--featured a plunging neckline and conic/godet shaped pieces that formed the architectural shape of this incredible dress. I also loved the contestant's styling of her swept-back chic hair and earrings. Even one of the co-hosts--while describing the dress during the show--had to concur that this gown was SPECTACULAR!

Score: 9.85









3. Miss Potuguesa Nariman Batthika: Nariman wore this powder pink colored gown designed by Venezuelan designer Nidal Nouaihed. This was another stunning design worthy of those good ol' days of Venezuelan Couturiers like Guy Meliet. The dress featured that very popular "nude gown" tulle netting style, all covered in crystals, bugle beads and pearls in varying sizes. Through extraordinary patternmaking and technical artistry, his atelier then attached a voluminous pink satin overskirt. Beautiful!

Score: 9.70 





4. Miss Zulia Mariangel Galban: Miss Zulia came at the end of the Miss Venezuela 2017 Evening Gown Fashion Show because her state Zulia was the last one--in terms of alphabetical order. After a slew of endless all-over sequined/crystal, nude/gold/blush colored gowns...this GORGEOUS vision of red silk ziberline appeared and I literally got up from my couch and clapped! (I know, I'm gown-silly like that!). This "Valentino Red" color dress made of Italian silk ziberline was designed by designer Joan Delgado and he did a marvelous job. It was dramatic, elegant and architectural.

Score: 9.65







5. Miss Barinas Mariem Velazco: This white gown from designer Alejandro Fajardo is my 5th pick. The dress was A LOT but somehow, it worked. The gown, which was made of silk crepe and gazar featured an asymmetrical column dress with nude panels, covered in incredible silver sequin applique. It looked like a Wedding Gown from "Game of Thrones" (or at least MY dream-like "Game of Thrones"!).

Score: 9.50











6. Miss Aragua Oriana Rodriguez: This dress above was the gown worn by Miss Aragua Oriana Rodriguez for the Finals of Miss Venezuela 2017. The design was made of ivory silk crepe and nude illusion, cut into panels that created a fit-and-flare silhouette. The beautifully-fitting dress was designed by Julio Mora and featured thousands of degrade-style crystals. I loved the heavy-to-light sequin work and the panels were done in an exquisitely sexy yet not vulgar manner. Muy bien!



Score: 9.40









7. Miss Vargas Versuska Ljubisavljevic: This royal blue colored sequined gown--designed by Benito Santos--was one of the most striking dresses of the pageant. The color was bold and stage-impacting. Inspired by an "Ocean Queen", the design featured thousands of Austrian crystals, an illusion panel neckline and silver crystal waist.

Score: 9.35





8. Miss Nueva Esparta Yerardy Montoya: Yearady wore an ensemble/gown which included an extravagant cape made of thousands of ostrich as well as Coque/rooster feathers fully lined in pink silk satin. She started with this and then released her coat/cape to reveal a beautiful pink sequined applique gown. It was a VERY INTENSE entrance which I admired and the entire look was quite fabulous!

Score: 9.25





9. Miss Falcon Bilianniz Alvarez: Bilianniz wore this golden/nude gown designed by Hugo Espina . The gown featured a column shape with a nude tulle base and golden colored "petal"-like sequins in varying sizes. It was simple, sequin-stunning and an impressive Pageant Fab gown.

Score: 9.20







 






10. Miss Tachira Maria Sofia Contreras: Maria Sofia wore this silver/ivory/lilac/nude gown from designer Dheymid Galaviz . It was pretty impressive! The gown featured 10,000+ pastel colored sequins sewn on the gown, a "plunging" neckline with nude illusion panel, as well as dramatic back falls...oh and yes, there were baby blue colored ostrich feathers on the hem of the gown and those falls. I would have probably removed those feathers, otherwise, this was a VERY FABULOUS gown.

Score: 9.15





11. Miss Amazonas Megan Beci: Megan wore this golden/nude VERY Versace-like sequined gown. The dress featured asymmetric lines, a nude base and thousands of crystals. It was a clean, chic and modern gown from Colombian designer Alfredo Barraza, known for creating gowns for these Colombian beauties:



 Score: 9.10







12. Miss Merida Yoselin Rojas: This fit-and-flare shaped gown was designed by Carlos Ferrera and featured a "nude" tulle base with 300 meters of crystals and pearls sewn in a magnificent manner covering all the necessary parts. She looked like an Ice Queen! And I have to add: Notice that in this and all the other "nude"/see-through gowns there was NEVER any tacky inner lining as we saw in the gowns worn by Miss Grand Indonesia and Miss Grand South Sudan at the "Miss Grand International" HERE. Well done Carlos!

Score: 9.00









13. Miss Yaracuy Rosangela Matos: When the co-announcer was describing this Honicer Sandoval gown, she said it was Art Nouveau and Art Deco-inspired. Not sure where that "inspiration" is (maybe the gold?) but it was an impressive work of fashion art! The mermaid-shaped dress featured 30,000 gold and amber crystals fitted very close to her body, showcasing the lines of the strapless bustier and shaped skirt, all culminating in hundreds of Coque/rooster feathers. Notice the heavy-to-light crystal work...and the silver crystals that looked like exaggerated princess seams. While it was slightly gaudy, it still looked rich and fabulously extravagant. Rosangela looked like she was OOZING gold!

Score: 8.99









14. Miss Miranda Oriana Gil: At No. 14, I wanted to add this design by Carlos Ferrera worn by Miss Miranda Oriana Gil. First off: She is GORGEOUS! OK, frankly, they ALL were! Moving on... when she walked out, she wore this Empire-waist tulle concoction and at first I thought "Ooooh, someone is trying to give a Giambattista Valli Moment"(and not so well!) and then I thought "I bet she's going to remove it ASAP!" (I hope!). And she did...well, kind of; when she untied it, it drew gasps since, it turned into the overskirt of a quite stunning sequined column gown that she was hiding underneath. The tulle thing was a MESS and did not flatter her at all and then it looked so unnecessary once she displayed the dress underneath. The saving graces were: Oriana was GORGEOUS (I think I already said that!), and the inner dress was quite pretty.

Score: 8.85





15. Miss Sucre Zharat Bruzal: Last but not least, I included this ivory colored gown worn by Miss Sucre. The dress looked well-done and was VERY "Miss Venezuela" circa 1980's; look at the crystal bustier, the cascade overskirt, those OUT OF CONTROL earrings AND THAT HAIR!!!! OMG!!! I literally thought I was 8 years old and still back in Caracas watching Gilberto Correa hosting this darn over-the-top show! And for that, I had to include her!

Score: 8.10








CONGRATULATIONS & Felicitaciones to Sthefany Gutierrez and her "Miss Venezuela 2017" Royal Court!!  




And don't forget to go to AMAZON.COM to Purchase my NEW "The Pageant Coloring Book". There are over 25 hand-drawn Pageant Gown Sketches for you to create your very own Evening Gown Competition! Click HERE to purchase:

ICE STYLE.....Grand Prix Audi Cup of China 2017 FIGURE SKATING COSTUMES: PAIRS and ICE DANCE

Pas de Deux: Ice Dance pair Gabrielle Papadakis and Guillaume Cizeron of France at Grand Prix of Figure Skating Audi Cup of China 2017


Wrapping up my COSTUMES RECAP of this past weekend's Grand Prix of Figure Skating Audi Cup of China 2017, I've discussed the LADIES COSTUMES HERE, the MEN'S COSTUMES HERE and now it's time to talk about the PAIRS and ICE DANCE. Let's begin with the...



PAIRS:







Valentina Marchei and Ondrej Hotarek of Italy: Marchei and Hotarek skated their Short Program to Tu vuo fa l'Americano by Renato Carosone. The music and program  was SOOOO Italian, they should have served the judges some Limoncello after they skated! The colors and fun presentation were a welcomed respite from the usually more serious Pairs programs. Ondrej wore black pants, tight white dress shirt and red polka dotted neck-scarf. He looked like the waiter of a fun pizza restaurant. And Valentina wore this red mini dress using the same polka dotted print for the skirt. 







The look included an odd drop-waist style with sequined belt/trim, which was also seen at her neck. I liked the neck detail but the back was odd, at best. The back closure looked wonky and as if it was sewn at the last minute and then there were these nude elastic straps holding up the back neck piece. It all looked kind of unfinished to be honest.











Free Skate to Amarcord by Nino Rota: Once again, Marchei and Hotarek went the Italiano route; this time for their Free Skate, they skated to the music of the Academy Award-winning Federico Fellini film "Amarcord". They were bold and fun in their "Harlequin" print embellished costumes in black, red and white. It was kooky and slightly "Circus"-like but visually, at least it got me to pay attention. I wished his vest (which matched her dress) was tighter...








I did LOVE how the harlequin diamond "print" on her costume were all made from sequined crystals---something that I really couldn't tell until the camera got up close. I wish they would have used the same treatment for his vest.










Nicole Della Monica and Matteo Guarise of Italy: Italians Della Monica and Guarise skate their Short Program to Magnificat by Mina. But frankly, I could CARE LESS what they skated to when they looked LIKE THIS: HOT! HOT! HOT! I loved these lavender costumes featuring ombre-dye coloring and sequined applique embellishments. I liked her little costume with long sleeves and handkerchief-hemmed skirt section. But can we discuss MATTEO GUARISE!!??? Mamma mia!!! His body is INSANE! Oh, and yes, I loved his costume. First, the fit was perfection. And it was great how somehow the dyeing of the shirt almost created (or enhanced) his already six-pack abs! I also loved...





The back! It's so great when a costume is fab all-around: The perfect 360 degree Costume! And I also appreciate when the guy on a Pairs couple isn't just given a black shirt/black pants and calling it a "Costume Day". Grazie Mille!







Free Skate to The Tree Of Life by Roberto Cacciapagua: Well, looks like Della Monica and Guarise did it again...Costume wise! These were two fabulous costumes from the Italians, worn for their Free Skate. The colors were vibrant and ice-impacting. They looked like a wonderful and sexy sea/earth flora-and-fauna God and Goddess in these. I also loved...





The silver, turquoise, aqua and baby blue crystals throughout their costumes. The front sequined detail was beautiful and that jeweled web-like strap back on Nicole was a FAB detail! These two and their costumes make it SOOOOO worth it to spend the hours and hours I spend writing these "Ice Style" costumes blogs!









Ashley Cain and Timothy Leduc of USA: Americans Cain and Leduc wore these costumes for their Short Program to I'll Take Care of You by Joe Bonamassa. I liked seeing these modern and sleek unitard/jumpsuits on them. The looks were done in black with aquamarine crystals scattered throughout. I loved her front and back silver sequined panels which added interest to her costume as well as elongated her body. While I also liked his sequined front torso embellishments I wished he didn't have that gauze-y blouse over it. He needs to just take that off and go without!





Xiaoyu Yu and Zhang Hao Zhang of China: They skated their Short Program to Swan Lake by Petr I. Tchaikovski in these costumes above. I thought these were elegant and quite nice. Her white "Swan" costume wasn't your typical feathered design one sees and I appreciated that. I also liked the subtle sequin detail on his black look. 







Free Skate to Star Wars (soundtrack): I LOVED this blue chiffon costume on her! The gathered bodice design featured gorgeous sequined trim at the plunging neckline, armholes and waist and a fabulous neck drape. This dress could easily go from ice to the red carpet!













Wenjing Sui and Cong Han of China: This Chinese pairs couple is REALLY EXCITING ME in terms of costume commentating! They are bringing the Haute in Haute Couture Figure Skating Costumes. For their Short Program to Hallelujah, they wore these gorgeous looks. Her scarlet red costume was BEAUTIFUL; I loved the sequin work that went from heavy to light--as if a gorgeous Swarovski crystal mirror had broken and ended up beautifully on her costume! And he was not left behind with a beautifully-embellished "Dragon" sequined top. LOVE LOVE LOVE.





Free Skate to Violin Fantasy on Puccini's Turandot by Vanessa-Mae and Nessun Dorma (from "Turandot") by Giacomo Puccini, performed by Luciano Pavarotti: These costumes worn for their Free Skate were two of the MOST BEAUTIFUL COSTUMES I have seen in a long time on Pairs skaters. They were bold, right for the music, looked super ice skating COUTURE...I can go on and one. I loved the sequined applique on her gorgeous red dress but that gold and silver dragon on his shirt was EVERYTHING!



ICE DANCE:



Madison Chock and Evan Bates of USA: Chock and Bates wore these Latino Caliente costumes for their Short Dance to Salsa: Aguanile by Mark Anthony; Rhumba: Que lio by Mark Anthony; Samba: Vivir mi vida by Mark Anthony. The colors were nice and the details--like her loose fringe and asymmetrical upper torso styling--could make the very talented costume designers of "Dancing With the Stars" envious that they didn't make them! (I hear Madison designs all their costumes). I also liked how Evan was looking sexier this year with the skin tight top and that HOT plunging v-neck. Muy bien.





Free Dance to Imagine by John Lennon: Chock and Bates wore these blue costumes for their Free Skate. I liked these costumes as well. The blue colors were pretty and the sequin detail was beautiful. There was a somber yet elegant glamour to these that I admired. And Thank you Evan for that plunging neckline! (or shall I thank Madison??)







Lorraine McNamara and Quinn Carpenter of USA: Americans McNamara and Carpenter wore these looks for their fun Short Dance to Rhumba: Mambo Italiano by Bob Merrill; Slow Rhumba: El Perdedor by Enrique Inglesias feat. Antonio Solis and Samba: Big Bagz by Alex Romano. I thought these were great costumes that looked "Senior Level" and had great sequined detail. I especially liked her "Gladiator Goddess"-like detailing, front bustier gathering and "open sides" design. I also loved  his sequined vest top. We are seeing a bit more skin on the men so he did look too covered up, however. 











Tiffany Zahorski and  Jonathan Guerreiro of Russia: If there was any question that the theme is RHUMBA/SAMBA/SALSA for this season's Ice Dance Short Dance, well...take a look at this Russian Ice Dance couple! They skated their Short Dance to Samba: Hip Hip Chin Chin performed by Club des Belugas ; Rhumba: Volveras performed by Gloria Estefan; and Samba: Batucada Brasiliera performed by Samba Brazilian Batucada Band. Tiffany looked like a fab samba dancer at the Rio Olympics Opening Ceremony with her super vibrant colorful fringe-tastic costume: LOVE. And Jonathan--while not really donning a "costume" perhaps--was still right as the male partner to her sexy HOT HOT HOT look. In this dance...it is ALL ABOUT her!













Gabrielle Papadakis and Guillaume Cizeron of France: Here is another example where the female is the Costume Star. For their Short Dance to Shape Of You by Ed Sheeran and Thinking Out Loud by Ed Sheeran, remastered by Karl Hugo, the French Ice Dance couple of Papadakis and Cizeron wore these costumes above. Gabrielle looked like someone at the top of a Brazilian Carnival Float--and THAT IS the point! Loved her two piece sequined and fringed look. The gold and green colors were great. And Guillaume...sleeveless, tight, Muy Sexy Le Smoking Skating Tuxedo. Très Chic and Très Sleek.







Free Skate to Piano Sonata N. 14 in C sharp minor, Op. 27, No 2. "Moonlight Sonata", Adagio Sostenuto, by Ludwig van Beethoven performed by Steve Anderson 

"Moonlight Sonata", Presto Agitato by Ludwig van Beethoven--Two words: JUST GORGEOUS. These costumes were subtle, beautiful, elegant, and PERFECT. Her softly flowing chiffon dress with Lycra bodysuit was sublime and fluttered with the dance like a gorgeous bird flying through the wind. And Guillaume...







That side cowl drape top was FIGURE SKATING COUTURE Fab! Sexy, elegant, draped. I love that for the Free Dance, HIS costume was actually THE STAR. 












Merci Papadakis et Cizeron...pour les beaux Patinage Couture ! XO

ICE STYLE.....Grand Prix Audi Cup of China 2017 FIGURE SKATING COSTUMES: MENS

 Man of España: Javier Fernandez of Spain during his Free Skate, Audi cup of China 2017, Beijing People's Republic of China


Continuing with my ICE STYLE Costumes Recap BLOG on ISU Grand Prix of figure Skating Audi Cup of China 2017, I have talked about the LADIES HERE so now, it is time to discuss THE MEN! Let's begin with USA's Vincent Zhou:











Vincent Zhou of USA: Vincent skated his Short Program to Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol. He wore this lilac-hued shirt and dark lilac/gray skin-tight pants. The shirt featured beautiful crystals throughout but it was the white-shirt underneath that made it slightly too "Casual Friday's" for my taste. 











Free Skate to Moulin Rouge (soundtrack): Zhou wore this red-and-black costume for his "Moulin Rouge" Free Skate. While I appreciated that he (or his costume design team) stepped it up several notches from his short program costume...but he looked a little too much like one of the background dancers of the "Like A Virgin" segment of the film (photo above). But maybe that was the point.





Boyang Jin of China: For his Short Program to Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (soundtrack) by Tan Dun, he wore this all black costume that had the detailing of a traditional Chinese robe, but reinterpreted in a modern way. The entire look was slim, sleek and minimal. I LIKEY!








Free Skate to Mars (from "The Planets") by Gustav Holst and Stars Wars (soundtrack) by John Williams: This white top and black pants design was almost like a "design extension" of his Short Program costume. I liked the double-breasted look and crystal embellishment. Once again, it was Minimal Costume Design...at its best.













Han Yan of China: Han Yan skated his Short Program to A Thousand Years by Christina Perri in this light gray top and dark gray pants. The top had pretty crystals on the neck, shoulder and sleeves. I liked all that detail up top and I also appreciated how snug his top was. This was a good example of a Costume Look that was similar in its style to Vincent Zhou's but...was done better. Not my favorite color combination, but it was nice none the less.





Free Skate to I'll Take Care Of You performed by Beth Hart, Joe Bonamassa: For his Free Skate, he wore this wine-red dress shirt, black-and-gray vest (with black pants, of course). Overall, it was a nice costume for him. There were sprinkles of silver crystals throughout the vest which added nice sparkle to the costume. Also...I wonder if his new silver-colored hair is part of the look? Very On-trend Millennial.





Kevin Reynolds of Canada: Kevin is kind of known for his costumes. For his Short Program to Moanin' by Art Blakey, however, there was really none--except for a white dress shirt, a bold blue tie, black pants and...OH GOD WHAT IS THAT BELT???!!!! I cannot believe he fell for the dreaded Male Figure Skater Ross Dress For Less 90's Belt Virus!!! I think I owned that belt...in 1994. Please Kevin, give it to Out of the Closet ! ASAP!







Free Skate to The Armed Man: A Mass For Peace by Karl Jenkins--For his Free Skate, Kevin was more on his comfortable "Costume Territory" and as a fan of Figure Skating and Figure Skating Costumes...I liked this! I liked all the detail of the jacket--especially those epaulets and gold embroidery. It also fit him quite nice and worked with the music. I know that maybe he looked a teeny bit too much like "The Nutcracker" Prince but hey, I'll take that over a 1994-like Ross Dress For Less belt ANY DAY!







Max Aaron of USA: Max wore this black pants and draped gray knit top to his Bring Him Home and One More Day (from "Les Miserables") by Claude-Michel Schoenberg Short Program. This look was very Max Aaron in it's gray/black colors and sleek costume look. I liked the cowl draped neckline and asymmetrical hem especially. It added a little bit of interest to his costume. I also have to add that the design reminded me of...








Draped Boys: Joshua Farris of USA and Daisuke Takahashi of Japan during the 2013 ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating season




Free Skate to The Phantom of the Opera by Andrew Lloyd Webber: For his Free Skate, he went typical Max Aaron gray-and-black (of course) with this look. It was not very exciting but then again, Aaron is not know for his exciting costumes. The look, however, was a nice departure from what we usually see from skaters doing "The Phantom of the Opera". This off-center closure, heathered gray top with black pants design was like the "Modern Dance" interpretation of the musical.









Javier Fernandez of Spain: Spaniard Javier Fernandez brought back his "Charlie Chaplin" program (as many of the skaters are doing for this Olympic Season) from the 2012-2013 Season. Back then, it was his Free Skate and now, it for his Short Program. And as much as I liked his "Chaplin" costume back then, I am happy that he wore a new costume. For his Short Program to Modern Times (Charlie Chaplin soundtrack), he wore this sleeker-and-sexier Charlie Chaplin look comprised of snug gray pants, a second-skin black stretch velvet jacket and white shirt. The jacket had nice details like sequined trim, satin lapels and a fab flower-like lapel "rosette". It was sharp and fit him well and still had elements of the character he was playing.



And...in case you were wondering...




  This is his old Charlie Chaplin costume from his 2012-2013 Season Free Skate Program






Free Skate to Man of La Mancha: For his Free Skate, he wore this "Conquistador"-style costume appropriate for the musical. Javier's 15th century-like doublet and shirt had great little details such as the back loops, side sleeve buttons and dramatic stand-up collar. I liked the fact that it was "costume-y" but not too Costume-y (if that makes any sense). On a non-costume note: Let's hope the next time he skates, he does a better job. Go Javi!!!



**UP NEXT: ICE DANCE and PAIRS COSTUMES of Audi Cup of China 2017!!

SASHES AND TIARAS.....Miss Earth 2017 Finals: Winner, GOWN RECAP & Best-to-Uh Oh LIST!

Earthly Beauty: Miss Earth 2017 is Karen Ibasco Miss Earth Philippines--Miss Earth Philippines Crowning Night, Mall of Asia Arena Philippines

Photos courtesy of Miss Earth Facebook Page




Saturday night were the Finals of Miss Earth 2017 Beauty Pageant --considered one of the "Grand Slam International Beauty Contests", along with Miss Universe, Miss World, Miss International, and Miss Grand International. The contest was held at the Mall of Asia Arena in the Philippines and the hometown girl won: Karen Ibasco, Miss Earth Philippines was crowned Miss Earth 2017! 






Proud Filipina: Miss Earth 2017 Karen Ibasco of the Philippines holding the Philippines flag, along with (L to R) Miss Earth Air Nina Robertson (Australia), Miss Earth Fire Lada Akimova (Russia), and Miss Earth Water Juliana Franco (Colombia)--Miss Earth 2017 Finals, Mall of Asia Arena Philippines




She bested 85 other ladies from all over the world and this is THE THIRD Filipino contestant to win the international beauty pageant in FOUR years (last year's winner, Katherine Espin was from Ecuador)...







Swimming Karen: Karen Ibasco Miss Earth Philippines during the Swimsuit Competition of the Miss Earth 2017 Finals, Mall of Asia Arena Philippines


Karen is 26 years old,  stands 170 M (5' 7") tall and has a bachelor's and master's degrees in applied physics major in medical physics. She was a contestant in Binibining Pilipinas 2016 (Miss Universe Philippines) where she didn't place. She then went on to compete for Miss Earth Philippines 2017 in July, winning the crown.










Top Two: Miss Earth Colombia Juliana Franco (L) and Miss Earth Philippines (R)--Miss Earth 2017 Crowning Night Finals, Mall of Asia Arena Philippines







Super Woman Karen: Karen Ibasco Miss Earth Philippines during the "Superhero"-inspired Intro portion of Miss Earth 2017 Finals in the Mall of Asia Arena Philippines





Costume Winner: Karen Ibasco Miss Earth Philippines won the Gold Medal for Best Costume of Asia Pacific category wearing this FABULOUS Filipiniana Terno design by Louis Pangilinan--Miss Earth 2017 National Costume Competition





Super Women: Miss Earth 2017 contestants in their "Super Hero" costumes during the Intro of "Miss Earth 2017" Finals, Mall of Asia Arena Philippines




Now, time to discuss THE FINALS EVENING GOWNS!!!



Gown Gals: Miss Earth 2017 contestants in their evening gowns, awaiting the announcement of the Top 16 Semifinalists--Miss Earth 2017 Crowning Night Finals, Mall of Asia Arena Philippines








Golden Top Four: (L to R) Miss Earth Colombia Juliana Franco, Miss Earth Philippines Karen Ibasco, Miss Earth Russia Lana Akimova and Miss Earth Australia Nina Robertson--Miss earth 2017 Crowning Night Finals, Mall of Asia Arena Philippines


During the Finals of Miss Earth 2017 , the contestants all came out in their evening gowns when it was time to announce the Top 16 Semifinalists. Then, later, they changed into gold (or yellow) colored gowns. I LOVE this aspect of making all the contestants wear same-coloring gowns at the end. It's different and does give a look of "Gown Unity" at the end. But...at least for an actual Evening Gown Competition portion, the Designer/Red Carpet Commentator/Pageant Fan in me does like the individuality of different colored gowns (or at least, having no "gown boundaries"). Anyhow...here are my thoughts (and SCORES!) of the Top 16 Semifinalist's Gowns. I'll begin with the eventual Winner "Miss Earth Philippines":








Miss Earth Philippines Karen Ibasco (and eventual Miss Earth 2017)--Let me begin with her first gown: I was not really excited about Karen's first dress(top photo)--a pink sequined-and-satin organza number--it lacked any stage presence and had little impact. It was also REALLY LOW on her front torso. Notice that almost 4" of space from her armpit to the edge of the strapless gown; that should only be about 1 1/2"-2" of space. It just seemed very low.





But, I did like the gold colored SECOND GOWN she wore. The style was chic and looked well-made. Two things though: I wish she would not have worn those nude PLATFORM heals (I am NOT A FAN!) and that slit was VERY HIGH...almost TOO HIGH and at several moments in the pageant, I swear I saw her Cha-cha (Lady bits). I think she knew because she kept that sash very close to that area making sure there was no "exposure". But...this second golden gown does make my 4th Best Gown.

Score: 8.90





1.  Miss Earth Vietnam Le Thi Ha Thu: My Number One Gown Choice was the one worn by Miss Earth Vietnam. This off-the-shoulder blue sequined gown was COUTURE FAB! It had amazing stage impact, looked great on the contestant and was draped beautifully. I also LOVED the "fireworks"-like sequins. this was a ballgown to SHUT DOWN all other ballgowns!

Score: 9.20







It reminded me of that GORGEOUS Zuhair Murad "Fireworks"-inspired Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2017 Collection







2. Miss Earth Venezuela Ninoska Vasquez: Next on the Best Gowns of Miss Earth 2017 Finals was the one worn by Miss Earth Venezuela. Ninoska wore this strapless red duchesse satin gown designed by Venezuelan designer Hugo Espina . This gown was definitely impacting (the color! the Couture-worthy draping and folding!), and fit her very well. I love DRAMA in a gown, but only if it's done right. This was done well and worthy enough of being my Top 2 Favorite. If there was any wish, I would have liked that slit/opening to not be SO OPEN. And those were DEFINITELY NOT the right shoes for this kind of gown. REPEAT AFTER ME: Strappy Heals with NO PLATFORM! But...the cut, color, and beautiful drape of this gown...

Score: 9. 00







3. Miss Earth Thailand Paweensouda Droin: The gorgeous Paweensouda (who ALL the Pageant Watchers thought was going to win this pageant!) looked elegant, regal and very pretty in this choice of a royal blue satin gown with sequined embellishment and China Silk back "cape" (top photo). This was a well-cut gown, perfect length (no tacky platform shoes showing!) and color was nice for her. I also thought the gold gown choice was "Pageant Pretty". It wasn't anything extraordinary--gown-wise--but did the job! I'm mainly scoring the royal blue style...

Score: 8.99



4. See Winner, "Miss Earth Philippines" at top of post as my 4th Pick for Best Gown of Miss Earth 2017 Finals.





5. Miss Earth Guatemala Maria Jose Castaneda: Maria Jose wore this golden shimmering gown as she was named in the Top 16. The style was nice, had stage impact and the length was perfect. She was one of the better representatives from the Central American nation in a long time! Someone should send this beautiful woman to the next Miss Universe ASAP.

Score: 8.90





6. Miss Earth Angola Ermelinda De Matos: Ermelinda is so beautiful! She looks like a Barbie Doll! For the Miss Earth 2017 Finals, she wore this silver sequined gown with a creme-colored tulle back overskirt. The gown was right for her and looked stunning but then...





She RUINED it with those UBER PLATFORM Stripper Pumps! WHYYYYYY?????????? If she just wore non-platform strappy silver heels, the length of the gown would have been perfect! But somehow she felt as if she HAD TO do this! No Mija. No.

Score: 8.35 (I'm trying to not look at those TACKY shoes!)







7. Miss Earth USA Andreia Gibau: Miss Earth USA wore this fringe-tastic royal blue gown for the Miss Earth 2017 Finals. The dress had a Las Vegas Showgirl-meets-Figure Skating Costume-meets-Cher quality that, while it was kind of a mess...it was kind of FAB as well. I think that Andreia made it FABULOUS for sure.

Score: 8.20





8. Miss Earth Cameroon Angelene Kossinda: I liked this golden colored gown worn by Miss Erath Cameroon. The color and the skin-tight "Nude Dress" look was on-trend. This was nice. I just wished it was slightly longer and that her breasts weren't so "accented" by sea-shell-looking sequin applique. Once again, this verged on slightly Figure Skating Costume territory...as well as a costume for a Caribbean nation.

Score: 8.10





9. Miss Earth Colombia Juliana Franco: Ninth on my List of Gowns of the Miss Earth 2017 Finals was this pink concoction worn by Juliana Franco Miss Earth Colombia. The little boy growing up in Venezuela watching those Miss Venezuela Beauty Pageants appreciated the almost "Vintage"-like quality of this pink lace sequined applique gown with stiffened overskirt. It was SOOO Pageant Retro, it brought back to...








Ines Maria Calero "Miss Venezuela 1987" at Miss Universe 1987


And even Ines Maria Calero's wasn't all stiffened. But yes, overall, Miss Earth Colombia's gown was VERY "80's Pageant" but at least it was stage impacting and fit well, and for that...

Score: 8.15





10. Miss Earth Tonga Diamond Langi: I actually liked this gold overskirt ballgown style on Miss Earth Tonga, I was very impressed with the dress and in particular, her sleek styling (loved the hair and makeup!). The length was nice and the dress style itself seemed Haute. However, she lost me when I zero-ed in on the back...







CANNOT ZIP IT UP! Look closely...yes, the gown wasn't closed correctly. Listen, I get that this was probably a sample size gown and did not fit the beautiful "Miss Earth Tonga". And therefore, we end up with this above. But...that's NO EXCUSE when you are competing at an international level. Sorry huney. But at least, the overall look was nice and worthy of my...

Score: 8.00





11. Miss Earth Russia Lada Akimova: Russia's Lada look radiant in this royal blue duchesse satin fit-and-flare gown. From the front, I was a big fan. The color was great, it fir nicely, and the silhouette was regal. Naturally, she had to turn around and...





THE DREADED HANG TAPE! Listen, as a designer, I have been there/done that in terms of sending out models on my runway shows and then seeing photos of the hang-tape hanging out of my gowns. But..I have learned, so now I either have the dressers just CUT THEM OFF (to then sew back on later!) or, I have them hand-sewn onto the dress to ensure that they will NOT pop out. Now, when it comes to being on an international stage at the Miss earth 2017 Finals, NO ONE should see hang tape. Period.

Score: 8.00






Provincial Dress: And then, Miss Earth Russia wore this canary yellow satin dress that looked more "Farmers Daughter" (I swear it's POLYESTER! And what is with the rosette trim at the bottom of the skirt?) that International Beauty Contest Finalist. Just sayin'




12. Miss Earth Switzerland Sarah Laura Peyrel: Sarah Laura is gorgeous. And this red crinkled applique gown made my No. 12/16 spot here in my Miss Earth 2017 Gowns Recap. At first glimpse, I thought I would like it but then...the fabric was a bit too "Happy Home-sewer" texture-y and...what is with that really low armhole/sleeve?

Score: 7.98





13. Miss Earth Australia Nina Robertson: Half Filipina/half Australian Nina Roberston was a big favorite at the Miss Earth 2017 Finals. This above is what she wore as her first Evening Gown. Four words: It. Was. A. Mess. I'll start with the good: I liked the golden color  but after that...it went Tacky-licious BAAAD: There were feathered cuffs on her sleeves, awkward looking iridescent tulle side godets and then...





She wore these TACKY STRIPPER SIX INCH PLATFORM SHOES!!! And I could see them! There is nothing that says "I am SOOOO SHORT and trying to compensate" than wearing these. Listen, there is NOTHING wrong in not being a six foot tall beauty contestant. But then: OWN IT HUNEY!  These were so tacky! And what hurt me most was that Nina is so pretty!

Score: 7. 50






Better: Well, at least she made it up during the end with this other gold gown. It was slightly more stylish and I couldn't see those TACKY shoes!




14. Miss Earth Czech Republic Iva Uchytilova: Where do I begin? The off-the-shoulder peasant blouse-like top and then THAT skirt with a side opening that was DANGEROUSLY risking exposure of her Lady parts. On a positive note: THOSE SHOES WERE PERFECT!!!!!

Score: 7.48





15. Miss Bosnia & Herzegovina Lela Karagic: We are almost at the end of my No's 1-16 List of Miss earth 2017 Finals Gowns. At #15 is this nude/golden/blush design worn by Miss Earth Bosnia & Herzegovina. Once again, we saw that weird crinkle fabric (like Miss Earth Switzerland's) but this time it was juxtaposed with nude illusion in a manner that definitely looked like a Figure Skating Costume-meets-a-Pageant Queen. And not in a good way. And then, she wore...






THESE SILVER 1970's DISCO PUMPS! How do you say "NOOOO!!!!!!!" in Bosnian, Serbian and Croatian????(the 3 official languages of Bosnia & Herzegovina).

Score: 7.45




16. Miss Earth Netherlamds Faith Landman: Lastly, we have Miss Earth Netherlands in this creme/golden gown. It featured EVERYTHING AND the kitchen sink! Not only was it a Mermaid silhouette, it was also Fit-and-flare, and it had exaggerated "Angel Wing" cape-sleeves...and if that wasn't enough (EDIT! EDIT!!!), there were cascade ruffles at the bottom of the skirt. No. No. And No. Sorry Miss Earth Netherlands. Congratulations on making the Top 16 of Miss earth 2017 but...

Score: 7.15








CONGRATULATIONS to Karen Ibasco Miss Earth Philippines for winning the Miss Earth 2017 crown! 


And if you LOVE BEAUTY PAGEANTS, Fab Gowns and Fashion Sketching...then you will LOVE my new book "the Pageant Coloring Book"...Click HERE to ORDER on Amazon.com:

ICE STYLE.....Grand Prix Audi Cup of China 2017 FIGURE SKATING COSTUMES: LADIES

Prima Skater-ina: Alina Zagitova of Russia during her Free Skate at Audi Cup of China 2017


The third of six ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating events/competitions--the Audi Cup of China 2017 --occurred this past weekend in Beijing China at the Capital Gymnasium. Since it its Grand Prix of Figure Skating Season, it's also the season I discuss the ICE STYLE--or figure skating costumes of the LADIES, MEN, PAIRS and ICE DANCE.








Operatic China: Chinese Opera show at Audi Cup of China 2017, Capital Gymnasium Beijing People's Republic of China


I've talked about the Rostelecom Cup of Russia 2017 and Skate Canada International 2017 on my BLOG HERE.  So...now it is time to discuss the COSTUMES of Cup of China 2017. I'll start with the LADIES...



Now, I have already discussed the costumes of...








Wakaba Higuchi of Japan: I LOVED them both--Click HERE to read my thoughts!


Now--time to discuss skaters' costumes I haven't talked about yet:



Mai Mihara of Japan: For her Short Program to Libertango by Astor Piazzolla, Mai wore this fun "Tango"-inspired costume. The look featured a black stretch lace costume with crystals, red flowers and fringe. It was fun, I really liked the frilly movement and her deep red lipstick added a strong air of Argentine Fabuloso!





Free Program to Gabriel's Oboe (from "The Mission" soundtrack) by Ennio Morricone: This was a BEAUTIFUL costume! Outstanding in it's design, execution, the tie-dye-looking colors...and the silver jeweled sequins were Haute! My favorite part was that top/torso section; it looked luxe and on another Figure Skating Costume Level!





Dabin Choi of South Korea: Dabin skated her Short Program to Papa Can You Hear Me (soundtrack) in this mint-and-white costume. The design featured an ombre-like effect, GORGEOUS turquoise-colored sequins at the Empire/underbust and neckline and flared bell sleeves. The costume was sweet and had slight references to the Hanbok (traditional Korean dress), and still went well with the skate and music (although it was more Barbra Streisand 1960's as opposed to Barbra Streisand Yentil!). I especially loved the attached elastic thumb-strap (right photo above), that was sewn in to keep the sleeves from flailing around. Now, THAT, kids is intelligent costume designing.





Free Skate to Seven Gypsy Melodies and Songs My Mother Taught Me by Antonin Dvorak: This blue and black sequined costume was beautiful and expensive looking. I especially was fond of that open back! This is a design straight out of very high-end red carpet gowns! Whoever designed this: Well done!











Elena Radionova of Russia: Elena skated her Short Program to Porgy and Bess by George Gershwin. In case this sounds familiar, it is! This is the same Short program music she used last season. It worked well for her then so--like SOOOOO MANY skaters are doing this Olympic Season--she's brought it back! But THANK GOODNESS (unlike many other skaters, much to my dismay!), she had a NEW COSTUME (Yeayyy Elena!). I thought this gold and black bugle-beaded fringed number was EVERYTHING! It was so Razzle Dazzle 1920's Flapper Diva: I LOVED IT! In case you're wondering what she wore last year at Cup of China 2016 for this same "Porgy and Bess" Program...








Last year's Flapper...I like the new 2017-2018 Season's costume BEST! What do you guys think?






Free Skate to Historia de un amor 2: Another GREAT costume from Russian figure skater Elena Radionova! The sequined design featured an illusion base that extended to her neck and back and STUPENDOUS red and black mini paillettes. I loved how they jutted out individually onto the upper bust and neckline.   







Elizaveta Tuktamysheva of Russia: Elizaveta skated her Short Program to Pisando Flores by Ara Malikian, Gypsy-like music which went well with her gold and black costume. There were slight nods to a fab Gypsy as well as Tango Queen in her fringed design. My favorite part was that neckline and gold applique/embroidery in the front torso.







Free Skate to Erinnerung performed by Efim Jourist Quartett: The music is from a Ukrainian composer, accordionist and bajan player and has an air of Gypsy-meets-Cirque du Soleil quality. And naturally, so did her costume. I liked this costume from far away. Up close, the multicolored tie-dye effect looked a bit childish but far away, the entire design was stage--or shall I say--ice impacting!





Gabrielle Daleman of Canada: Canadian figure skater Gabrielle Daleman skated her Short Program to Habanera (from "Carmen") by George Bizet. Immediately (naturally!) I knew the music and it was refreshing to see that this was NOT your typical "Carmen"; there was no red rose in her hair and no toreador bolero jacket among all the other "Carmen" costume stereotypes. I liked how fresh and modern this red cold-shoulder costume was. Gabrielle was the "Millennial Carmen". 











Free Skate to Gladiator Rhapsody and Now We Are Free (from "Gladiator" soundtrack) by Hans Zimmer--One word: WOW! First, I just loved how strong and powerful this costume look was. Gabrielle was like a SuperWoman Skater in this! The gold sequined applique and red costume had hints of yes,  "Wonder Woman" (the elongated arm cuffs and curved bust-line bustier!) as well as a Gladiator Goddess. I loved the nude illusion neck with sequined edge trim that extended to the back...and THAT MAKEUP: It was EVERYTHING huney! I also really liked her ponytail/braided hairstyle.









Alina Zagitova of Russia: OK, first off: Alina is AMAZING!!!! Every female figure skater needs to watch out! Anyhow...moving on--time to discuss her costumes. For her Short Program to Black Swan, Alina wore this GORGEOUS sequined and tulle design. I absolutely LOVED this costume--the hand-cut ballerina tutu, the silver and black paillettes...the sleeve/arm details...it was Haute Figure Skating COUTURE! This may be her first Senior Grand Prix Season but darlings, someone is spending A LOT of money on her costumes. And very smart to do so. 









Free Skate to Don Quixote by Leon Minkus: Another excellent costume from figure skating phenom Alina Zagitova. She looked like a Prima Ballerina in this absolutely beautiful costume. The ballet theme started with her Short program continued here and reached a zenith in this red and gold sequined design. But I have to say, she skated so incredible that well, she probably could have put on a red and gold garbage bag...and I would have been: OK! 








Pikachu Love: Japanese figure skater Marin Honda holding a stuffed Pikachu at Audi Cup of China 2017




**NEXT UP, it's THE MEN of Audi Cup of China 2017 Costumes! 

FIDM.....FIDM San Francisco Open House: Nick Verreos Special Appearance & Lecture RECAP!

 Nick Verreos at FIDM San Francisco Open House


Last Saturday, I had the pleasure of flying to SAN FRANCISCO to make a "Special Appearance" and give my "How I Got To Where I Got" Lecture at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising FIDM San Francisco Campus. As an FIDM Grad and Spokesperson, it is always a joy to talk about my early love of sketching and fashion and how FIDM was the PERFECT PLACE for me to help me achieve my dreams in the fashion world!






Cable Car Love--Nick Verreos in Union Square San Francisco


Throughout the year, all four of the FIDM campuses--Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego and San Francisco--hold their "Open Houses" , a chance for high school (and post graduate) students (as well their parents) to check out the campuses, meet instructors, alumni, see student's work, and get to meet successful FIDM graduates--like myself!






Ready for FIDM San Francisco Open House!--My mom sent a "Care Package" recently (LOVE HER!) and in it was this fab bow tie, rosette lapel pin AND pocket hankie!


I was excited to be invited to the FIDM San Francisco campus to make a "Special Appearance"...Here is my Photo Recap of the fun day, including my Lecture, Meet & Greet and giving away a copy of my new book "The Pageant Coloring Book" to a lucky FIDM SF Open House attendee:



Lecture Pics:











Nick Verreos during his FIDM San Francisco Open House Lecture--I had a blast doing my Lecture, speaking about my early love of sketching and fashion and then how I got accepted to FIDM and finally found my "FASHION HOME"! I brought a fun slideshow as part of my Lecture with tons of photos showing my NIKOLAKI gowns and designs as well as celebrities wearing my designs on the red carpet--FIDM San Francisco Open House



Giving away a copy of my NEW BOOK "The Pageant Coloring Book":














Nick Verreos with his new book "The Pageant Coloring Book"--FIDM San Francisco Open House







With the WINNER of my "The Pageant Coloring Book" Giveaway at FIDM San Francisco Open House


Post-Appearance Meet & Greet Pics with young students:




















Nick Verreos with Open House attendees--Post-Appearance Meet & Greet, FIDM San Francisco Open House


...And the Moms and Dads!!






Love the Moms and Dads!--Nick Verreos with students and their parents at the Post-Appearance Meet & Greet, FIDM San Francisco Open House


And then there was this...






Nick Verreos with the youngest FIDM Open House visitor!--Doing the "Hulk" pose (I think), FIDM San Francisco Post-Appearance Meet & Greet







BYE SAN FRANCISCO! Until next time! XO, Nick




And don't forget to get your own copy of "The Pageant Coloring Book" available NOW on amazon.com:

ICE STYLE.....SKATE CANADA International 2017 COSTUMES REVIEW: PAIRS & ICE DANCE

Costume Romance: Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir of Canada skate their Short Dance at Skate Canada International 2017, Regina Saskatchewan Canada


In my two previous posts on Skate Canada International 2017, I've discussed the LADIES COSTUMES HERE and MEN'S COSTUMES HERE...to finish up my ICE STYLE blogs on this second ISU of Figure Skating Grand Prix event, it's now time for the PAIRS and ICE DANCE COSTUMES RECAP. Let's begin with the...



PAIRS:





Aliona Savchetko and Bruno Massot of Germany: Savchenko and Massot skated their Short Program to Ameksa - Fuego by Taalbi Brothers, edited by Maxime Rodriguez in these costumes and I liked HERS. His, though, was another matter. "Fuego" means fire in Spanish so it makes perfect sense she would be wearing a fire-inspired sequined costume. Aliona's look included a red costume with jagged hem with gold and silver crystals and fire-like embellishment. I could have done without the wrist cuffs (??!!), but overall it was a very striking look. I especially liked the high neck with a sprinkle of gold crystals and the think, criss-cross black belt which brought the look to a very modern level. Bruno's, however, was your typical "Ross Dress For Less" male figure skating partner look. That tacky belt from 1997 was sooooo unnecessary. 











Free Skate to La Terre vue du ciel by Armand Amar, edited by Maxime Rodriguez: For their Free Skate, they made me proud in that Bruno wasn't wearing stuff from his closet and that they both matched and looked LIKE A PAIR (what a novel idea!). Her lilac colored ombre-dyed costume was exquisite, especially the sequin work and that fabulous back! And...(this is something I JUST NOTICED!): She also LOVES a high neck and here it was being featured, of course. Speaking of necks...







Bruno's Nude Illusion Neck-piece: I was a bit perplexed about his nude illusion neck-piece. I wondered why he even needed it and instead, just let him show some actual SKIN (Hello!!!). It was kind of tacky and very noticeable. After closer inspection, I realized that maybe it was an "after thought"--after they made his costume, I bet that stand up collar and small v-neck just kept flopping down and so...they decided to add that nude illusion piece. I wonder.





Cheng Peng and Yang Jin of China: The Chinese Pairs team skated their Short Program to Assassin's Tango (from "Mr. and Mrs. Smith" soundtrack) by John Powell. I thought these were nicely done costumes for both of them. Her red sequined dress was beautiful and looked Haute (LOVED that neckline!) and his Mandarin-collared tuxedo shirt and back pants look was right--for the music and theme. I also appreciated the black buttons on the shirt that picked up the black color of his pants.







Meagan Duhamel and Eric Radford of Canada: Duhamel and Radford of Canada skated their Short Program to With Or Without You by U2 performed by April Meservy and these costumes were VERY NICE! They looked like A PAIR and the delicate crystal details were pretty--I especially liked how they were brought onto his shirt. I was just a bit bewildered by the triangular crystals on Meagan's waist. I get that it was probably supposed to be a belt/waistband detail but, it was just oddly placed and the high waist was odd and cut her body in half.









Free Skate to Neutron Star Collision, Samson and Dalilah, and Uprising by Muse: OK, let's start with Meagan: I LOVED this red and silver sequined costume; GORGEOUS. It looked expensive, well-made, fit well and that sequined bodice work was OUT OF CONTROL! Eric's however...yes, another all-black "Nordstrom Rack" Men's Look. Yawn. Why someone couldn't just give this hot and .000002% fat free man a sexy skin-tight top with sequins and a little bit of red (to match hers), is beyond me. Now, if you think Meagan's beautiful costume looks familiar, it's because it is a COSTUME REPEAT (Groundhog's Day!)...







Meagan wore the same costume for their Season 2015-2016 Short Program to Your Song (From "Moulin Rouge!") by Elton John/Performed by Ewan McGregor.  I really wonder if these skaters will just do Costume Repeats or maybe they will "Bust out" (like those Beauty Pageant Girls!) with SUPER FAB NEW COSTUMES in time for the Olympics??!! (PLEASE!)









Natalia Zabiiako and Enbert of Russia: Zabiiako and Enbert skated their Short Program to Summer of 42 (soundtrack). The movie--according to Wikipedia --is a "coming-of-age comedy/drama about a summer vacation on Nantucket Island in 1942. These costumes had NOTHING to do with Nantucket...or 1942, for that matter, but I liked them! The lilac colors were pretty and soft and her beautifully draped dress was so refined. I also loved his asymmetrical neckline top with horizontal sequined darts and gathered side. Even though these had NOTHING whatsoever to do with the movie and era...I was still a fan.





Vanessa James and Morgan Cipres of France: Leave it to Vanessa and Morgan to get me excited about Pairs Costumes! They always BRING IT! And this season is no exception. For their Short Program to Make It Rain by Ed Sheeran arranged by Maxime Rodriguez, Vanessa wore this (almost) painted-on silver unitard/bodysuit. The costume had a gorgeously sequined bodice and...SERIOUSLY, it was A SECOND SKIN. She looked AMAZING. Morgan was not left behind--costume-wise--with his matching silver top and gray skin-tight pants. His top was quite nicely designed with the solid/nude illusion panels, side slits, super tight fit, and slim sleeves. I love how the costume designer made BOTH of them SO SUPER SEXY. It's never all about her. Morgan is no Figure Skating Costume Chopped Liver huney!







Free Skate to Say Something (A Great Big World) performed by Christina Aguilera

Sense of Freedom by Maxime Rodriguez: Let's discuss their costumes for their Free Skate. Vanessa wore a bright royal blue "Versace"-like costume featuring strap detail, crystals and overall styling reminiscent of the 90's heydays of Gianni Versace. I could care less if the music or program had NOTHING to do with the Italian designer or 90's Supermodels because I loved her costume! And now, it's time for Morgan...








While I do not complain when I see something SUPER TIGHT and SUPER SEXY on Morgan Cipres (Bonjour Morgan!!), this was a bit of a disjointed mess. I give them points for trying to bring in her royal blue color and strap detail into his look but...this was just odd. And to top it off, his satin lapel-ed vest kept riding up through that "Pirates of the Caribbean"-like belt! I just didn't get it. Dump that vest, dump that belt and just keep that see-through super sexy plunging v-neck top. Add tiny royal blue crystals on it...and call it a COSTUME day! Merci.




ICE DANCE:




Madison Hubbell and Zachary Donohue of USA: Hubbell and Donohue skated their Short Dance to Samba: Le Serpent by Guem et Zaka; Rhumba: Cuando Calienta El Sol by Tayla Ferro; and Samba: Sambando by Los Ritmos Calientas. I liked the deep violet/purple/lilac colors. Her sexy open side-and-back asymmetrical one-sleeved dress was HOT. I also liked the sequin detail and paillettes at the hem. Even Zach looked great! His v-neck top was sexy and included color and sequin elements taken from her costume. They get a 9/10 in my Costume Book!










Free Skate to Across the Sky - Instrumental by Rag N'Bone Man and Caught Out in the Rain by Beth Hart: For their Free Skate, I liked Madison's dress but Zachary's black-and-white outfit left a lot to be desired. First, her deep gray sequined dress was beautiful, fluid and fashionable. But his...well, it didn't live up to her costume; instead, he looked like a waiter at a restaurant AFTER the restaurant closed! The Lycra jacket was flimsy and the open shirt look was inelegant. STEP IT UP Zachary. You deserve better!





Kaitlin Hawayek and Jean-Luc Baker of USA: Hawayek and Baker skated their Free Skate to Liebestraum arranged by Maxime Rodriguez. These lilac-hued costumes were pretty and worked nicely with the program. Her dress had beautiful movement and gathered draping and I liked his deep lilac colored pants that went well with her costume's coloring.









Kaitlyn Weaver and Andrew Poje of Canada: For their Short Dance to Bolero: Tango by Diane Reeves; and Mambo: Do You Only Wanna Dance performed by Julia Daivel Big Band, this Canadian Ice Dance couple went a bit "Carmen Miranda"...at least she did. I get that the themes are Mambo/Samba/Rhumba, etc. and there are so many costume variations on that...but Kaitlyn's sequined flower dress--while beautifully draped--was a bit "Miss Brazil" for me (yes, even ME!). I didn't dislike it, and do think it's kinda gorgeous but (maybe it's just her blond hair/porcelain skin) it looks like a "Latina Costume" on her. Andrew--on the other hand--looked sexy and perfect. The see-through shirt (On Trend!); the SUPER TIGHT tuxedo striped pants (Hello!)...he looked MUY BIEN!









Free Dance to Je suis malade performed by Lara Fabian: For their Free Dance, they wore these looks. She wore a scarlet red cowl-neck slip dress (with an intentionally off-the-shoulder strap). And he wore a blue-gray tuxedo shirt and deep gray pants. If you think you have seen these before, well...maybe: This was the same Free Skate music AND very similar COSTUMES they used back in the 2011-2012 Season (also used in for Exhibition Program in 2011-2012 and 2012-2013). The difference (I think) is that this new costume isn't beaded at the satin cowl front top section (as opposed to the earlier version) and maybe his pants are not as "boot-cut" in the leg. Here are the "earlier costumes":  










2012 ISU Four Continents (left) and 2012 NHK Trophy (right)










Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir of Canada: One word: WOEW! I would have put TEN PHOTOS of them and these looks but I didn't want to overwhelm y'all! So, I just added four! In case you missed it: I LOVED these! Canada's Virtue and Moir wore these costumes for their Short Dance to Samba: Sympathy for the Devil by The Rolling Stones; Rhumba: Hotel California by The Eagles; and Cha Cha: Oye Como Va by Santana. Tessa's design involved a see-through cheetah print look with fringe and GORGEOUS gold jeweled sequined embellishment. It also featured a very sexy scooped open back. I loved it all! And then, there was Scott: Oh Huney! That sequined black-and-nude top is EVERYTHING! Both looked Samba and Rhumba Fabuloso! (and can we discuss Scott's KABUNKADUNK THIGHS!!!???)










Free Skate to Roxanne and Come What May (from "Moulin Rouge" soundtrack): For their Free Skate, they wore these looks. For Tessa, it was a Cabernet red stretch velvet costume that showcased her fat-free fab figure with a scooped-side and open back. It was very "Azzedine Alaia/late 90's" Fab. And Scott, he donned a super tight mock-neck top and skin-tight pants. Even though the shade of his top didn't even match the shade of pants...and there were no crystals or any Cabernet-matching color on his look...They looked PERFECT. 

ICE STYLE.....SKATE CANADA International 2017 COSTUMES REVIEW: MEN

The Blue Boy: Jason Brown of USA skating his Free Skate at Skate Canada International 2017, Regina Saskatchewan, Canada


In my last post HERE , I discussed the LADIES of Skate Canada International 2017 and their costumes--and all those COSTUME REPEATS (!). Sooooo...now it is time for the MEN. Thank goodness that they were a bit more Costume savvy than the ladies and did not do COSTUME REPEATS but they did do Music-and-Program Repeats instead. So, at least, somehow, they opted for NEW costumes, Gracias a Dios!







Shoma Uno of Japan: I look forward to what Japan's Shoma Uno will wear each season for his programs since he seems like a skater who cares about his costume and the whole stage presence/artistry of it all. For his Short Program to Winter (from "Four Seasons") by Antonio Vivaldi, he wore this costume above. I loved this costume on him. The Ombré dyed stretch velvet combined with the beautiful beadwork that mimicked ice crystals all combined to create the perfect accent to his stunning skating.







Free Skate to Turandot, Nessun Dorma (from "Turandot") by Giacomo Puccini, performed by Jose Carreras--Shoma Uno wore this costume for his Free Skate. it consisted of black pants (of course!) and an intricately detailed royal blue top. The top was striking and impacting. It featured a "plunging neckline" (demurely covered by nude illusion), and gold sequin applique highlighting his neckline and upper torso. It's obvious Shoma Uno LOVES a FABULOUS top for his skates and this follows this style pattern. In case you were wondering, this program was a REPEAT PROGRAM (The Season of Figure Skating Groundhog's Day!): This "Turandot" program was the same as Season 2015-2016 but THANK GOODNESS, not the same costume. this is what he wore then:






Here is his costume back then. At least, he used a new costume!






Takahito Mura of Japan: Mura skated his Short Program to Zapateado (Flamenco) wearing this black-and-white ensemble. The look had the ubiquitous black pants as well as a very flashy applique lace-like top featuring sleeve ruffles, stand-up collar, crystals and, if that wasn't enough, fringe on the front as well as what looked like sleeve "garter belts". I (kind of) see the Flamenco reference (the lace, the ruffles...the black & white) but it was still kind of a mess. 







Free Skate to The Phantom of the Opera by Andrew Lloyd Webber--For his Free Skate, Takahito brought back (Groundhog's Day!) his program from the 2014-2015 Season but...it was a different cut of music (well, at least, there's that!) AND this old-but-new program was choreographed by none other than Charlie White! In terms of his costume, he wore this part black/part cabernet red jacket look with heavily studded lapel, a red chest pocket hankie and mismatching black and white gloves. Mura, once again, took it into a Too Mucheey Costume Level. I get the "Phantom" reference, but it was all a bit too kitschy for my taste. But...at least he didn't repeat his costume:








This is what he wore back then...and I kind of wish he would have worn it again! At least it was classier (he did keep the black-and-white gloves though!)










Michal Brezina of Czech Republic: Michal has a new look and he's giving "Hipster Skater" (Oh lordy!) with that annoying top knot. He skated his Short Program to Kodo (Japanese Drums) in this black and white costume featuring a skin-tight top with crystal studded dragon-like motifs. The look worked--he did look like one of the Kodo performers and at least he didn't wear this:








On second thought...that might look HOT on Michal Brezina!








Patrick Chan of Canada: Patrick skated his Short Program to Dust in the Wind by Kansas in this ensemble of black pants and a white-and-black top. According to CBC Sports , Patrick Chan arrived at Skate Canada International after some travel snafus but...his costumes didn't. The three-time world figure skating champion missed last Thursday morning's practice after his flight out of Detroit on Wednesday was delayed. He missed his connection in Toronto, and spent the night there before flying to Regina on Thursday. Well, his costumes might not have arrived and I don't know where he got this, but I liked it! It was sleek, fit him well, and the top was kinda beautiful with that great snow-like detail.







Free Skate to Hallelujah by Leonard Cohen, performed by Jeff Buckley: Once again, not sure if his actual costumes finally arrived and these were those but if not--who cares? I thought this was, again, quite beautiful. I LOVE seeing male figure skaters wear softly draped tops such as these. It might not have been much of a costume--and it would be nice to see maybe some red piping (or a red tuxedo stripe) down the side of the pants--but I appreciated the draping.











Jason Brown of USA: Jason skated his Short Program to The Room Where It Happens (from "Hamilton") by Lin Manuel Miranda. We know that Jason Brown has probably never met a fabulous costume he did not like and from the moment he stepped onto the ice, you KNEW he was skating to "Hamilton": I loved this costume. The sleeveless jacket color, the sharp black buttoned lapels, white ruffled blouse, grey vest, pants...all reflected the era and look of Aaron Burr in "Hamilton" and overall, it was an EXCELLENT costume: 








Leslie Odom Jr. as "Aaron Burr" in Broadway's "Hamilton"






Jason Brown Free Skate to Inner Love by Maxime Rodriguez: For his Free Skate, Brown donned this all blue look consisting of stretch velvet pants and an ombre-shaded skin-tight top featuring an off-center illusion panel accented by sequined embellishment. Once again, I "Heart" Jason for embracing a head-to-toe costume look. I loved the bold color and especially the gorgeous crystal detail on the front of his top. If I had one small critique, it would be the fit of the pants. I'm not sure if it is the weight of the velvet material or just a bit too much ease, but they seem a bit loosey-goosey. I almost wish the entire outfit were one piece. I have a feeling he could pull it off!



**COSTUME EXTRA:



Alexander Samarin of Russia: Samarin skated his Free Skate to La Naissance de Yaha by Saint-Preux, The Unforgiven III by Metallica and House of the Rising Sun performed by Dave Evans wearing this...and why not?? The music was hard rock/metal and his costume reflected this in a kooky costume way. The top had orange colored "fire" accents (??), a nude illusion black scroll-like sleeve (just one) and take a look at that skull belt buckle! I just HAD to add this photo--and costume--to end my Men Costume Blog.



**UP NEXT: The PAIRS and ICE DANCE COSTUMES of Skate Canada International 2017!

SASHES AND TIARAS.....Miss Earth 2017 National Costumes Competition: MY TOP 15 BEST!

Filipiniana Winner: Miss Earth Philippines wins the Gold Medal for Asia at the "Miss Earth 2017 National Costumes Competition"--Century Park Hotel Manila Philippines

Photos courtesy of Miss Earth Facebook Page, OPMB Worldwide Facebook Page


Last night was the much-anticipated National Costumes Competition of the 2017 Miss Earth Beauty Pageant , occurring in the Philippines. The contest--which took place at the Century Park Hotel in Manila--featured the 86 contestants from all over the world showing off their National Costumes grouped by geographical regions including Central and North America, South America, Asia, Eastern Europe, Africa and so on.





Gold, silver and bronze medals were awarded for the top costumes (as deemed by the judges) for each geographical region. The Gold Medals (top prize) for National Costumes went to Miss Earth Philippines for Asia, Miss Earth Russia for Eastern Europe, Miss Earth Portugal for Central Western Europe, Miss Earth Bolivia for South America, Miss Earth Ghana for Africa, and Miss Earth Guatemala for Central and North America.








Medal Costume Couture: Winning costumes at the "Miss Earth 2017" National Costumes Competition, Century Park Hotel Manila Philippines


Now that we know the judges' picks, here are MY TOP 15 FAVORITES of the Miss Earth 2017 National Costumes beginning with NUMBER ONE:







1. Miss Earth Philippines Karen Ibasco: Karen won the Gold for Asia, and she gets MY GOLD PRIZE for BEST COSTUME of all the contestants! "Miss Earth Philippines'" costume was a Filipiniana Terno designed by Louis Pangilinan. It was EXTRAORDINARY! From the statement-making necklace...to the off-the-shoulder Mantilla top...to the fan...






Charles James Meets Filipiniana: Charles James gowns (left) and an example of a traditional Filipipiana Terno Dress (right)


...to the intricately designed and cross patterned multi-godet paneled Charles James-like crinoline gown-skirt...WOW! This costume should be in a museum! Kudos to the designer and all the very talented artists and sewers who made this.











2. Miss Earth Thailand Paweensuda Drouin: My second favorite was the costume worn by the stunning Paweensuda Drouin, Miss Earth Thailand. This stunning creation represents the Hmong Thai tribe, showcasing the gorgeous intricate silver headdress and batik printed fabric of the Hmong. The exquisite detail on the headdress alone deserves a medal! And I do love how chic the top and skirt look. Take that crown away and that outfit alone could be worn at a very fancy black-tie gala in Bangkok!











3. Miss Earth Nepal Rojina Shrestha: This costume was stage impacting, beautiful and fab enough to make my Top Three! The mixing of the Sari with the Hindu gods imagery...and those striking red and gold colors and silk fabrics...everything about this looked regal and very Costume Couture!









4. Miss Earth Guatemala Maria Jose Castaneda: Maria Jose's costume won the Gold for Central and North America. And I can see why; it was my 4th Best among the 86 contestants. This gorgeous creation was made and designed by Guatemalan designer Cesar Alejandro Portillo who creates many of the national costumes for "Miss Guatemala" contestants. This costume is to me THE BEST one in the "Pre-Columbian Fantasy Diva" category. The Guatemalan fabric, the colors, the feathered headdress, the sequined cape...I can't imagine how much work and time went into this and I really hope Cesar was paid A TON of money for this! Muy Bien! 









5. Miss Earth Ghana Maud Fadi: "Miss Earth Ghana" was my 5th Best and the  highest spot for a contestant form Africa. I was blown away by her presentation (she came out covered partially using her cape) and then opened it up to reveal the fabulous Kente cloth patterns. The aqua blue mermaid-shaped gown featured multicolored sequins at the bust and torso as well as bottom portion of the dress--and if that wasn't enough, it had a matching Kente cloth pleated peplum. Oh, and then there was her Ghana Coat of Arms headdress! This was a National Costume MOMENT Ladies & Gentlemen!







6. Miss Earth Japan Yasuyo Saito: "Miss Earth Japan" wore this multicolored kimono robe and dress--and she looked GLORIOUS! The costume itself was superb: The colors and the silk brocade fabrication were INCREDIBLE. Kimono DIVA!











7. Miss Earth Costa Rica Fernanda Rodriguez: At No. 7 in my Top 15 Best National Costume List is "Miss Earth Costa Rica". I loved the look of this costume, especially the bold colors and prominent feathers in the front. The costume itself represents the exotic plants and migratory birds that live together in Costa Rica and was designed by Filipino designer Maestro John. I wished he could have also designed fabulous shoes to have gone with the costume--as opposed to these off-the-rack nude platform heels.







8. Miss Earth Canada Jacqueline Marsh: OK, there are Drag Queens in Canada DYING to get their manicured hands on this costume!! This white and red UBER snowflake costume was created by Filipino designer Tohe Rojas Gantuangco and he did a FABULOUS job--take a look at all those HUNDREDS (possibly thousands!) of maple leaf snow flakes attached to her bodysuit and "wings". And the red sequined headdress as well as matching red details throughout the costume really brought home the "Go Canada!" theme.









9. Miss Earth Sri Lanka Shyama Dahayanaka: I loved "Miss Earth Sri Lanka's" Bird Couture costume at the "Miss Earth 2017" National Costume Competition. This feathered and multicolored costume represents the Sri Lanka Jungle Fowl (seen in lower top photo) and was very impacting for many reasons including that fabulous headdress, the sequined applique and of course, the actual fowl feathers. She was a Bird Goddess in this!





10. Miss Earth Malaysia Cherish Ng: "Miss Earth Malaysia" wore this costume titled "Khatulistiwa: the Goddess Flora" which was created by Borneo Republic Malaysia Creations. It was my No. 10 out of 15 Best Costumes of "Miss Earth 2017". The costume is inspired by the Latin name of Flora, the goddess of plants, flowers, and fertility as well as “Khatulistiwa”--the Malay word for equator. On Earth, the Equator is an imaginary line on the surface, dividing the Earth into Northern and Southern Hemispheres. As a country surrounded by the sea and located near the equator, Malaysia naturally receives plenty of sunlight. As a result, various species of flower can be seen across Malaysia. This costume symbolizes beautiful flowers in Malaysia. During the production of this costume, recycled items were used namely aluminum pull tabs from drink cans, plastic bottle caps, used buttons, used wire phone and used floor rugs. In other words, not only is this fabulous for the "Miss Earth" Beauty Pageant...this design would be great for the "Project Runway" Unconventional Challenge! 













11. Miss Earth Mongolia Tugs-Amgalan Batjargal: I liked this costume worn by "Miss Earth Mongolia". It looked refined, expensive and still stage-impacting. The silk fabric with fur trim looked rich and that headdress with jeweled and sequined details really took her to a Mongolian Queen level!







12. Miss Earth Vietnam La Thi Ha Thu: Made by Vietnamese designer Nguyen Minh Cong from one of his recent collections entitled "The Dreamers", this costume worn by "Miss Earth Vietnam" represents a strong female soldier. Made of a natural silk fabric, as well as glittering lame fabric, the look features a leotard/body suit, midriff peplum corset, overskirt and lotus flower details. The lotus flowers symbolize the "sturdiness and softness of Vietnamese women" according to the designer . I thought it was chic, modern and costume-impacting. I just wished she would have worn THE SAME DIVA shoes she wore in the pre-pageant photoshoot above--as opposed to the actual contest! What happened to those fabulous shoes? Were they lost in a luggage snafu?







13. Miss Earth  Panama Erika Parker: My thirteenth choice for Best Costume is "Miss Earth Panama". I loved the colors, the story, her presentation and yes--the CROWN! Her costume is entitled "Pollera Congo" (a pollera is a full skirt). This folkloric costume comes from the Panamanian province of Colon...







The costume represents the women of this area and their traditional dress. The woman is THE QUEEN and head of the family and therefore, the crown. The mixed pieces of fabric comes from when the ethnically African people in Panama were slaves, their masters would only give them leftovers of their fabric to use on their clothes and therefore, that's how they made their polleras...using discarded fabric from their Masters. The costume and overall look just made me smile. She may be barefoot but she looked RICH and EXUBERANT.









14. Miss Earth Mexico Karen Bustos: Karen comes from San Luis Potosi in Mexico and therefore, her costume paid tribute to the fabrication used in San Luis Potosi traditional dress. I loved the fashion-fab design (sleek column gown with side front slit!), the great red-and-white print, and super headdress adorned with red rose-shaped satin. I think it's so great when a designer can take a traditional folkloric dress and take it to another, almost-red carpet level! Muy bien!









15. Miss Earth Venezuela Ninoska Vasquez: Finally, I wanted to add the costume worn by "Miss earth Venezuela" in my Top 15 List. Ninoska's costume was designed by Carlos Perez and it was a sequined bodysuit of Earth Flora-and-Fauna...and Water Gorgeousness...





The look includes details representing Venezuelan Orchids, as well as the mountains, the rivers and birds of the country. To top it all off, the blue and silver crystals falling from her arm represent the glorious Angel Falls. In line with the "Miss Earth" theme, this costume is very representative of "Mother Earth" and all the natural wonders of that troubled South American country.




Just for fun...I wanted to add this "Miss Earth 2017 National Costumes Competition" Costumes Extra...Guess what country this "National Costume" is from?



No...not the nation of "McDonalds"...this is Miss Earth BELGIUM! And yes kids, she wore a costume featuring "French Fries". Why? Because if you know your food history...French Fries are actually from Belgium! Historians claim that potatoes were being fried--since the late 1600's (!) in Belgium. Soooo, yeah, that's Miss Earth Belgium's national costume. And I LIKE IT!





CONGRATULATIONS Miss Earth Philippines! Your costume was MY Number One Costume of the "Miss Earth 2017" National Costumes!