Paula Ortega shines bright in her Sun-inspired National Costume
Reinado Internacional del Café concluded its 51st edition with the crowning of Isabella Nieto from Colombia. Unfortunately for us, Philippine bet Paula Ortega failed to penetrate the final five. The pageant took place on January 8 in Manizales, Colombia.
While Paula may have not won our first crown, she, nonetheless represented our country beautifully. Radiating throughout her journey, she carried this energy with her even in her national costume.
Made by designer Lionell Christian Lanuzo, the eye-catching (and eye-blinding) costume is named La Reina del Sol or The Sun Goddess.
In a tropical country like The Philippines, the sun has a significant role which the costume aims to represent. A vital element to our lifestyle and progression, the costume emphasizes energy production, economy, livelihood as well as agriculture.
The ensemble features an intricate design which is completely covered in gold. It also has a pair of fans which is shaped to look like the rays of the sun as seen from The Philippine flag.
Both creative and sustainable, the costume is said to be made up of 90 percent recyclable materials.
“Golden paper cups, plates, cake boarders were individually to make this design possible. This represents small things that we usually take for granted that when used and viewed on a different perspective, it transforms into something elegant and breathtaking.”
For raising our flag and doing your best, you, Paula Ortega made all of us proud! We can’t wait to see what you conquer next. A true reina in her own right, Felicidades y Muchas Gracias!
