In the early days of Miss Universe a National Costume was a real costume. It was something that people actually wear like Japan’s kimono or Spain’s flamenco outfit. Today, a National Costume is a work of art awash with meaning and inspiration. Intricacy of the design is valued and at the same time cultural relevance is always emphasized. It has to tell a story and it can be expressed by a headdress or a canvas painted on the costume itself. And to add oomph to the entire ensemble, some costumes add visual effects and transitions.

At Miss Universe 2024 prelims, there were numerous impressive National Costumes and we have to be thankful that – unlike in previous yeas – we didn’t see any that were accompanied by ridiculous props. A lot were eyecatching but here are the Top 10 according to our beauty experts and correspondents:

10. Miss Philippines Chelsea Manalo – Dubbed as ‘Hiraya’ this costume draws inspiration from the Catholic and Islamic cultures of the Philippines. It also highlights the historical connection between the Philippines and Mexico.

9. Miss Honduras Stephanie Cam – This costumes is entitled “El encuentro de los pueblos” and is meant to show the Honduran culture. It incorporates folk costumes and traditional masks.

8. Miss Egypt Logina Salah – Entitled “Rising from the Tomb” this costume draws inspiration from the rich culture and history of Ancient Egypt especially the story of the Egyptian queen Cleopatra.

7. Miss Nicaragua Geyssell García – What a creative costume wherein the elements traditional Nicaraguan fashion was utilized while showcasing a famous landmark called Leon Cathedral.

6. Miss Colombia Daniela Toloza – Festive, colorful and very Colombian this costume is inspired by indigenous fashion while showcasing the link between Colombia and Mexico.

5. Miss Peru Tatiana Calmell – Peru rarely holds back when it comes to national costumes. Their costumes are usually well made and very detailed. This one takes inspiration from pre-Columbian Peru and is a homage to Incan sun-god Inti.

4. Miss Denmark Victoria Kjær Theilvig – This costume honestly looks more South American than Scandinavian but we will take the word of Miss Denmarks when she said that this costume is a tribute to a Viking goddess.

3. Miss India Rhea Singha – This massive and intricately designed costume called “The Golden Bird” is inspired by the same title given to India. It is a breathe of fresh air as it boldly departs from the usual saris and lehanga used by previous contestants from India.

2. Miss Ecuador Mara Topic – Elaborate, creative and massive, this jaw-dropping costume is a homage to Ecuador’s capital city of Quito. The audience were mesmerized when Mara pulled a string to reveal the additional background designs and also when she unfurled a hidden mural in her costume’s skirt.

1. Miss Mexico María Fernanda Beltrán – Classic Mexican design with creativity liberally applied, this costume is a homage to the indigenous roots of the country. The costume’s sheer size makes you wonder how many days were spent by an army of artists to come up to create this amazing costume.

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