An enchanted evening

In adherence to its prevalent theme of glamor, the Miss Cebu 2008 Evening Gown Competition was true to its form. The 12 candidates were indeed screen icons with inspirations ranging from Grace Kelly, the Hepburns Kate and Audrey to a Dorothy Dandridge and even a Suzy Wong. It may be simplistic to think that though the candidates were mostly ingenues, they pulled the glamor factor with aplomb. After all, their tireless efforts and positive demeanor speak volumes.

An ingeniously draped satin navy gown from Mario Rotersos opened the Evening Gown portion as worn by Tiff Cabrera who looked a lot like a diva from the halcyon days and setting the mood for the competition. The Knapsaxx and the Zynkrons dancers  brandishing a multi tiered candelabra that served as literal beacons of style did a lot of help too in setting the mood. Adjudged Best in Gown is Carol Flores donning a translucent gown strategically appliquéd and beaded with matching headpiece by Myrna Cebrecus. Resplendent in her Ren Manabat strapless gown with train painstakingly (and yes, laborious!) adorned with gigantic roses was Cathy Atuel. Another strapless number was Minnie Yuvienco’s metallic gown in nude and melon on Prissy Gonzales. Classy strapless blanc et noir beaded and patterned paisley gown by Albert Arriba was donned by Angel Alfeche. Best Designer Awardee Oj Hofer draped her candidate, Kirstie Babor in a chinois gunmetal silver column gown. Elegant belle of the ball and glamor personified was Mai Honorio who floated from the runway and into the consciousness of the enthralled audience in her Grace Kelly-isque gold bouffant gown with a bejeweled belt and gloves by Jun Escario.  Nostalgic was Marichu Tan’s red and nude glittery gown that finished off with a multi-layered hem on Karen Nacario. William Manahan’s pleated monochrome tube gown with a very interesting bag on Marjorie Tan endorsed Op Art leanings swimming through the minds of the captive audience. An indigo and gold Harley Ruedas gown on Sian Maynard was very Elizabeth Taylor in Cleopatra. Arcy Gayatin’s blush and pewter beribboned bustier on Girley Gabriel was every inch a de rigueur to every screen goddesses’ wardrobe. A striking black and silver gown with hints of transparency was what Salvador Malto had in mind as worn by Jam Libatog.

Bravissimo!