Cristina Pedroche, the well-known Spanish presenter, took center stage on New Year's Eve 2024, marking her tenth year delivering the traditional Campanadas countdown on Antena 3. This year, she stunned viewers with her one-of-a-kind dress, crafted from crystallized breast milk and adorned with 8,500 shimmering crystals. With this unique outfit, Pedroche not only dazzled audiences but also sent out a heartfelt message advocating for the rights of children, partnering with UNICEF Spain to highlight the importance of protecting the youth from violence and exploitation.
Emphasizing her commitment to championing social causes through fashion, Pedroche introduced her remarkable dress at the Restaurant Terraza Puertasol, saying, "This year I'm especially excited about the arrival of the new year. It's a privilege for me to broadcast the Campanadas once again. I'm extremely proud to join UNICEF Spain, which has worked tirelessly for almost 78 years to protect childhood."
The dress was not just any garment but represented layers of meaning and craftsmanship. Designed by the esteemed stylist Josie, the outfit included over 40 breast-shaped adornments made from the presenter’s own preserved breast milk, which she used to nurture her first child. This innovative choice made headlines, with Josie explaining, "The dress contains breast milk from the only woman called to wear it because it is her milk."
The craftsmanship of the dress involved collaboration with artisans at Vivascarrion, who utilized high-hat haute-couture techniques to create a piece weighing over 42 kilograms. This involved more than 2,500 hours of labor and the dedication of multiple artisans. "Our goal was to create something not just beautiful, but also deeply meaningful," Josie expressed to EL PAÍS.
Pedroche’s ensemble was rich with details, showcasing the creative process behind translating the idea of motherhood and protection of children through fashion. Ana Sotto-Mayor Ribeiro from UNICEF remarked, "Breast milk protects babies from birth. [Also], it helps prevent gastrointestinal and respiratory diseases," reinforcing the symbolism behind the dress’s design.
Approaching the countdown to the New Year, Pedroche was clear about her vision for 2025, focusing on the notion of peace. "To 2025, I wish for peace, tolerance, and responsibility," she stated passionately. This alignment between her fashion and advocacy work has created not only visual impact but has also sparked necessary conversations about youth safety.
The spectacle of the Campanadas has turned over the years from merely guessing what dress Pedroche would wear to anticipating the social impact of her choices. With over 4.3 million viewers tuning in the previous year, many see her fashion decisions as cultural phenomena. The interest goes beyond fashion, as Pedroche has long turned her style choices during this live event to raise awareness about urgent societal issues.
Historically, her chosen attires have included some controversial pieces aimed at stirring discussion and change—lighter, environmental themes of water management last year and now the urgent call to protect children. Over the decade, her fashion has reflected the changing societal narratives, culminating this year with what was described as the most significant garment yet, reflective of motherhood.
José María Vera, the executive director of UNICEF Spain, explained the urgency of their mission. "Over 460 million children live in conflict zones, but violence also occurs where children should be safest: their homes and schools," drawing attention to the need for global action on children's safety.
When the time finally came for the grand reveal, Pedroche smiled broadly as she transitioned from the dramatic cloak enveloping the stunning piece. "I’ve become something of a chandelier tonight!" she exclaimed, embodying the spirit of her creation—vibrant, reflective, and illuminating. The dress itself was more than just clothing; it was targeted commentary on the vulnerabilities of the youth today.
Looking back at the last decade of fashion choices, Pedroche has turned her appearances at the Campanadas from simple entertainment to captivating expressions of art and advocacy, earning her place as one of the most talked-about figures each New Year’s Eve. Each year, the excitement builds leading up to this moment—a demonstration of both style and substance—proving once more why she remains at the forefront of Spanish television and cultural discussion.
With 2025 now underway, Pedroche not only left behind glittering memories but also gave hope through her platform, showcasing how fashion can weave itself intricately with activism. The discussion sparked by her dress is expected to linger long after the final countdown, continuing to inspire dialogue on the rights of all children worldwide.