Rian Fernandez is the Filipino designer who crafted Miss Universe Thailand 2024 Opal Suchata’s evening gown in the Miss Universe 2024 pageant, where she finished as third runner-up.
On Instagram, Rian shared the inspiration behind Opal’s breathtaking gold and white gown dubbed “Queen’s Wings of Triumph” for the annual pageant’s evening gown competition.
According to the Filipino designer, the ensemble was a tribute to Thep Kinnaree, a half-woman, half-swan in Thai mythology.
The gown features an off-shoulder neckline designed as wings and a body-hugging silhouette in the abdomen down to the hips with a relaxed skirt train.
“As she glides across the stage, the gown embodies a regal essence that captures the enchanting spirit of the Kinnaree, leaving an indelible mark of elegance and grace,” the designer wrote in the caption.
Rian also designed Opal’s evening gown when she was crowned Miss Universe Thailand 2024 in July.
A pageant favorite, Rian is also the mastermind behind the evening gown of Miss Universe 2022 R’Bonney Gabriel during her final walk, as well as the gown that Miss Universe Philippines 2022 Celeste Cortesi wore during her appearance at Miss Universe Thailand 2023.
Meanwhile, Philippine bet Chelsea Manalo ended her Miss Universe 2024 journey in the Top 30 and was later crowned the first Miss Universe Asia.
— Hermes Joy Tunac/CDC, GMA Integrated News
