How Filipino designer Jerome Lorico crafted Bianca Umali's GMA Gala 2025 outfit
At the GMA Gala 2025, Bianca Umali was among the stars who turned heads with their gorgeous outfits. But the actress did more than just make a fashion statement with her outfit; She told a story.
On Instagram, the Encantadia Chronicles: Sang'gre star shared the journey behind her intricate look, which was a creation of designer Jerome Lorico. She described it as "the culmination of craftsmanship, heritage, and vision."
Her top was fashioned from real capiz shells. "Each piece hand-cut, sanded smooth, and molded directly on my body to create a piece that feels as much like armor as it does adornment," she said.
In contrast to her sculpted top was her flowy skirt made with handwoven cotton, gold thread, and piña cloth.
"Every pleat and panel was designed to flow with my stride, to catch the air in moments of stillness and motion," Umali said.
Her handbag, also handmade, tied the look together in perfect harmony—its textures and tones mirroring the ensemble's palette.
"This is the kind of creation that reminds me why fashion is an art form—one that requires patience, collaboration, and a deep respect for both culture and craft," Bianca wrote.
"Wearing it feels like carrying the hands, hearts, and history of those who made it possible," she concluded.
.jpg)
Bianca currently stars in Encantadia Chronicles: Sang'gre, a spin-off to the 2016 reboot Encantadia.
Among her famous TV and film roles are Lawiswis in Mulawin vs. Ravena, Crisanta in Kambal, Karibal, Sahaya in the TV show of the same name, Farrah in Legal Wives, and Irene in the second installment of Mano Po Legacy.
The GMA Gala was held on Aug. 2 at the Manila Marriott Hotel.
