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.