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.