Meet the Ugandan Who dressed Miss World Vanessa Ponce De Leon

Renown Ugandan fashion stylist Christine Akello better know as Tina Brad , is the brilliant mind behind the gown which reigning Miss World Vanessa Ponce De Leon wore at the Miss Uganda 2019 grand finale.

The gown which Vanessa Ponce De Leon wore at the event was styled by Christine Akello Bradshaw, commonly known as Tina Brad, is known for her sense of style. Her boutique Tina Brad Store is a favourite for Ugandan fashionistas

Reigning Miss World Vanessa Ponce De Leon wore a stunning champagne colored gown from Award winning Ugandan celebrity stylist Tina Brad, to the Miss Uganda 2019 Grand Finale at the Kampala Sheraton Hotel on the 26th of July 2019.

The gown was masterfully designed to showcase a chic and modern look inspired by the Gomesi, a traditional attire famous in the Central region of Uganda since 1940. Tina Brad shares an in-depth insight into how she expressed the beauty of the Gomesi into a gorgeous and contemporary evening gown for the Reigning Miss World.

The first noticeable feature on the gown are the sleeves. Traditionally, the Gomesi has short, puffed sleeves however Miss World’s gown was designed with off shoulder sleeves to give it an in vogue appeal whilst maintaining the frame.
A kikooyi or Kanga is an inner garment tied underneath the linen of Gomesi to ensure the fabric does not stick to the body. This is meant to accentuate the elegance and decency of the attire.

Miss World’s gown had a dress underneath inspired by the Kikooyi. The belt on Miss World’s gown featured a skirt spread on top of her dress giving
prominence to the final part of the Gomesi inspired look which is the Sash. A Gomesi is tied with a sash placed below the waist over the hips to not only give the attire shape but also to make it fashionable. Miss World’s sash or belt stylishly mimicked the complete look of a Gomesi with the addition of a decorous trail.

Model : Miss World Vanessa Ponce De Leon
Dressed By : Tina Brad
Photo credit : Hannz Photography

Content courtesy of Paul Atwine & Nairobi Fashion Hub