Entertainment

The gown worn by Miss Universe 2025, Fátima Bosch, at the Gala of Viña del Mar 2026 sparked conversation, with opinions ranging from praise to criticism. Now, the Chilean designer behind the dress, Giovanni Rizzo, has revealed a surprising detail: Bosch never actually saw the design before wearing it to the event. The revelation adds another layer to the discussion surrounding the look, which drew attention for its color and overall aesthetic.

Rizzo, a national designer, shared details about the creation of the dress during an interview with the program Con Gusto a Viña, as reported by Mega. He explained that the Miss Universe Organization contacted him directly, seeking a Chilean designer to create a gown for Bosch. “She asked to work with Chilean designers and the Miss Universe organization contacted me and it was an honor,” Rizzo stated, adding that the design process was guided by specific parameters and a predetermined color palette.

The most striking aspect of Rizzo’s account is his statement that Bosch “never tried on the dress, never saw the design, she simply wore it.” This unusual circumstance has fueled further discussion about the collaboration and the level of input the beauty queen had in the final product. The gown, a gradient of white to light blue, was paired with jewelry resembling stars, intended to evoke a celestial theme.

Rizzo as well confirmed that the dress shared similarities with a gown previously created for Gala Caldirola. He explained that both dresses were part of the same collection. “Gala’s is completely white, has a lowered hip skirt, has draping, and Fátima’s is a gradient from white to light blue, and she wore jewelry that was a simile of stars on her head, given that it was a sky. That was the inspiration,” he detailed.

The Viña del Mar festival, a major cultural event in Chile, is being extensively covered by Mega Go, offering viewers access to routines and complete shows on demand with a Full plan subscription.

The designer’s comments offer a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of a high-profile red carpet look and highlight the collaborative process between designer and celebrity. The unusual circumstances surrounding Fátima Bosch’s gown – specifically, her lack of involvement in the design process – have added an unexpected twist to the story, prompting further discussion about the role of designers and the expectations placed on beauty queens at major events.

The choice to work with Chilean designers, as requested by Miss Universe, underscores a growing trend of showcasing local talent on international stages. Giovanni Rizzo’s involvement in creating both Bosch’s and Caldirola’s gowns demonstrates his influence within the Chilean fashion scene and his ability to create cohesive collections with a distinct aesthetic.

As the Viña del Mar festival continues, attention will undoubtedly remain on the fashion choices of its attendees. The story of Fátima Bosch’s gown serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in creating a memorable red carpet moment and the often-unseen details that contribute to a celebrity’s overall look.

What comes next for both Fátima Bosch and Giovanni Rizzo remains to be seen, but their collaboration has undoubtedly sparked a conversation about the intersection of fashion, beauty, and cultural representation. Share your thoughts on the gown and the designer’s revelation in the comments below.

“I am Punch and he is me.” That’s what my daughter texted our family group chat recently, after her older sister asked if we were “on the baby Punch-kun side of TikTok.” It’s a sentiment resonating with millions. Punch, a 7-month-old macaque monkey at the Ichikawa City Zoo outside Tokyo, has captured hearts worldwide with his story of rejection and resilience. His journey, documented across social media, taps into a universal feeling of longing for acceptance and the comfort found in unexpected places.

The story of this tiny primate began with hardship. Rejected by his mother at birth, Punch was initially cared for by zookeepers before being reintroduced to the monkey enclosure. His attempts to integrate weren’t easy; he faced indifference and even hostility from the other monkeys. But it’s his unlikely bond with a large orangutan plush toy that has truly captivated the internet, turning him into a viral sensation and sparking a wave of empathy and connection.

A Stuffed Surrogate and a Viral Moment

Videos of Punch tentatively approaching the other monkeys, only to retreat to the solace of his orangutan companion, have gone viral. These clips, shared widely on platforms like TikTok and X (formerly Twitter), show a shy and vulnerable creature seeking comfort in a world that initially seemed unwelcoming. The zoo has confirmed the increased crowds visiting to see Punch firsthand, as reported by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation. Fans are flocking to the Japan zoo to witness Punch’s story unfold.

The outpouring of support for Punch is remarkable. Messages of encouragement, often accompanied by memes and heartfelt reactions, flood social media. Many viewers see a reflection of their own experiences with rejection, loneliness, and the search for belonging. As one commenter put it, Punch’s story is a reminder that “none of us are alone in our attempts to fit in.” The internet is worried about Punch the monkey, but the zoo assures the public he is well cared for.

The Comfort of a Companion

Punch’s attachment to his orangutan plush is particularly poignant. He drags it around the enclosure, using it as a shield, a surrogate mother, and a playmate. This behavior highlights the primal necessitate for touch and comfort, a need shared by both animals and humans. It’s a sentiment that resonates deeply, evoking memories of cherished childhood objects. The zoo initially provided the toy as a tool for muscle building and to provide a sense of maternal comfort, a strategy that has clearly proven successful.

The story also touches on the universal experience of having a “comfort object.” As the author reflects, many people have a personal item that provides a sense of security and well-being. The enduring popularity of teddy bears and the timeless tale of “The Velveteen Rabbit” speak to this fundamental human need. The author recalls a childhood security blanket, “Blankie,” and the profound distress experienced when it was lost, a feeling that remains vivid even decades later.

What’s Next for Punch?

As Punch continues to find acceptance and companionship from his fellow monkeys, it’s possible he may eventually outgrow his need for the orangutan plush. However, for now, it remains a vital source of comfort and security. The plush toy itself is available for purchase at IKEA, offering a tangible connection to Punch’s story for those who feel inspired by his journey. Punch the Monkey Is Going to Be Okay, and his story continues to offer a heartwarming reminder of the power of resilience and the importance of connection.

Punch’s story is a testament to the enduring power of empathy and the universal desire for belonging. As he navigates his social world, he reminds us that even in the face of rejection, hope and connection are always possible. Share your thoughts on Punch’s journey in the comments below.