The inaugural Star Magical Prom happened mere days ago, and the internet is still talking about the star-studded guest list—and more importantly, their choice of outfit to the Bridgerton-themed affair.
Netizens couldn't help but gush over their faves all dressed to the nines, and Belle Mariano was no exception. The An Inconvenient Love star prepared not just one, but *four* stunning Francis Libiran creations—she was definitely a Belle of the Ball that night, as befitting the Prom Queen!
But what stole our hearts was a series of photos shared by the designer himself on Saturday, April 1. "A delightful trip down memory lane!," he captioned his post. "We've unearthed a charming photo of a young @belle_mariano as a flower girl back in 2007, wearing a Francis Libiran gown. The journey has come full circle as she blossoms into a stunning muse for our latest creations. A beautiful testament to timeless elegance and the magic of destiny."
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We can't get over how absolutely *adorable* Belle looks in her violet gown and what looks like a matching headband. Even at five years old, the He's Into Her lead was already a budding fashionista, pairing the look with a purple bedazzled belt, and a fuzzy textured flower basket. So precious!
Francis Libiran also shared photos of Belle's four looks for the Prom, the actress expertly styled by Adrianne Concepcion and Miss Vince. Shot by Andrea Beldua and against backdrops beautifully set designed by Matthew Filart, it's hard to choose a favorite!
Belle's first gown for the Star Magical Prom was a divine blush pink pleated one-sleeved number topped by an oversized feather hat—the pièce de résistance gave the look the *perfect* amount of glam, and her soft and subtle pink makeup enhanced the dreamy, graceful vibe. We love seeing that hint of sparkle on her white heels, barely peeping out from beneath the voluminous skirt!
What can we say about look #2? The pastel purple and green beaded strapless gown reminds us of when a peacock showing off its feather train—absolutely majestic and fit for a princess. The soft beach waves and lack of accessories tone down the glamor for a more relaxed yet still "timelessy elegant" mood. This look might just be our favorite!
Florals in spring? In this case, Belle's third look is definitely groundbreaking. From the mesmerizing color gradient changing between blush, peach, baby pink, to lavender, the one-shoulder creation flows like a waterfall of petals. The sheer volume in the skirt and the soft, messy updo act like an ode to the 1870s style, which emphasized the flounce and long train at the back of the skirt.
Belle's fourth and final look of the night—the look she wore on the Ivory Carpet—was a regal white strapless corset that flowed into an eye-catching high-low ostritch feather skirt. The actress completed her ensemble with black pointed-toe stilettos and a showstopping set of topaz and diamond bling worth P91 million (the necklace will set you back P79 million, while the earrings cost P12 million).
If you thought that was a step price tag, apparently a yard of imported ostrich feathers is worth P2,000—since there were at least 450 yards used for the gown, the total amount would come to approximately P900,000! Talk about feeling like a million bucks—or in Belle's cast, nearly P100 million.
Belle also wore Francis Libiran designs to two other important occasions, and Francis shared photos of both in his Instagram carousel. She made history as the first Filipina to be named one of the Outstanding Asian Stars at the 17th Seoul International Drama Awards on September 22, 2022. The actress received her award in person wearing a pink Filipiniana gown that featured an off-shoulder neckline, sheer panel cutout, and a thigh-high slit.
More recently, the 20-year-old and love-team partner Donny Pangilinan bagged the "Power Tandem" award at the 35th PMPC Star Awards for TV. Clad in an exquisite custom-made nude bustier gown, the flattering details—strapless neckline, nearly-sheer paneling, and thigh-high slit—made sure all eyes were on Belle that night!
Based on all of these gorgeous looks, we can't wait for the next Belle Mariano x Francis Libiran collaboration, for it's sure to be a success. Which look is your favorite?
