Belle of the Ball

As well as appreciating the once-in-a-lifetime experience that comes with participation at le Bal des Débutantes, Atasha Muhlach is grateful for the new friendships formed and her family's unwavering support

- Maritess Garcia Reyes

It was surreal. I’ve never experienced anything like that,” says Atasha Muhlach, who was still in awe after participating in the muchanticipated return of le Bal des Débutantes this year. Set in Shangri-La Paris’ magnificent Les Salons Historiques, the invitation-only event last November welcomed 17 débutantes, their cavaliers and parents, and prominent personalities from all over the globe. “When we first walked into the ballroom, my jaw fell. I was in complete shock. [In my mind, I said] ‘Wow, this is beautiful!’,” she continues, reminiscing on entering the grand venue. The 21-year-old daughter of showbiz royalty couple Aga and Charlene GonzalezMuhlach is the eighth débutante from the country to be invited to le Bal, seen as one of the most prestigious fashion and philanthropic events in the world.

Clad in a gorgeous, crystal-studded gown by Sabina Bilenko, complemented by jewellery by V Muse—a dazzling turquoise necklace and a serpent-shaped bangle—Atasha walked gracefully into the ballroom on the arm of her twin brother Andres, who was her cavalier. “The way the gown fit my body … I felt very confident and comfortable in it. Every single time I moved, the crystals glistened,” Atasha says, recalling that magical moment when she first put on her gown; it had been love at first sight. The exclusive event was attended by some of the most prominent names in society. Among the guests from the Philippines who witnessed the twins momentous entrance at the ball were fashion icon and actress Heart Evangelista and Tatler Philippines editor-inchief, Anton San Diego.