The present invention features a multi-layer ink-jet recording medium, suitable for recording images with dye and pigmented inks and thereby providing light-emitting, reflective, glossy, metallic-looking or holographic images, comprising a substrate coated with at least two 
layers comprising: (a) a first transparent ink-receptive layer comprising a polymeric binder and a cross-
linker and optionally having a 
plasticizer and 
pigment particles such as 
alumina and silica coated over the substrate, wherein the cross-
linker comprises and azetidinium 
polymer or a salt thereof, and / or a polyfunctinal 
aziridine or a salt thereof or a polyfunctional 
oxazoline or a salt thereof; and (b) a second ink-receptive layer comprising an opaque or semi-opaque 
coating composition, wherein the opaque or semi-opaque 
coating composition is capable of accepting a printed image and thereby becoming 
semi transparent or clearly transparent from application of ink-jet 
printing ink or similar inks, while presenting a light-emitting, reflective, glossy, metallic-looking or holographic image of high 
clarity and quality, wherein said first layer is located between said second layer and the substrate in said recording medium and the first and second 
layers are chemically coupled.