As the inaugural Miss Cosmo pageant’s coronation night draws closer, Miss Cosmo Philippines 2024 Ahtisa Manalo has been preparing in Vietnam.
Amid her preparations, the beauty queen is also making an effort to immerse herself in the country’s unique and vibrant culture.
While attending the “Best of Vietnam” exhibition, which featured an Áo dài show, Manalo had the opportunity to wear her own Áo dài, designed by Vietnamese fashion designer Trung Dinh and handcrafted by 21 Vietnamese artisans.
The dress showcased a painted image of the Vietnamese skyline against a sunset background on cream-colored fabric.
“I’m beyond grateful to have worn an Áo dài designed by Trung Dinh. Can you believe it took 21 talented artisans 3,000 hours to create?” Manalo shared with her fans on social media.
“Each detail was hand-painted by Vietnamese artists, including some who are hearing-impaired. It’s so much more than just a dress—it’s a true work of art, and I’m honored to have been a part of it,” she added.
In addition to the Áo dài, Manalo also had the chance to wear a traditional royal outfit from Vietnamese designer Y Van Hien’s collection, which she said deepened her connection to the country’s rich history and culture.
Manalo is representing the Philippines against 58 other beauty queens from around the world for the Miss Cosmo title on Oct. 5 at the Phú Thọ Indoor Stadium in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
