The Miss Universe 2024 candidates captivated audiences with costumes that conveyed powerful messages on cultural identity, social issues, and global challenges
Miss Universe has evolved to be more than just a beauty competition—it is now a global platform for advocacy, cultural expression, and a bolster to begin important conversations around the world. At the preliminaries night of the Miss Universe 2024, candidates transformed national costumes into powerful visual statements, celebrating heritage and championing causes that resonate worldwide. Some contestants showcased their country’s unique identities and drew attention to causes that might not otherwise reach a global platform, making the competition more relevant than ever in a socially conscious era.
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Sakhile Dube, Zimbabwe
“Soaring Eagle,” Sakhile Dube’s national costume, captures Zimbabwe’s journey towards empowerment and unity. The eagle, a prominent symbol of power and freedom in Zimbabwean culture, reflects the country’s ambition to rise above challenges and adversities. Crafted with intricate feather details and powerful wings, the costume highlights the richness of Zimbabwean heritage and its enduring spirit of hope and progress. This visually stunning ensemble and imagery made a bold cultural statement for Zimbabwe, showcasing a pride that evokes national identity and strength.
Rhea Singha, India
Rhea Singha’s “Golden Bird” costume uses intricate gold detailing to represent prosperity and India’s vibrant history during the Gupta period. More than the design highlighting the nation’s beauty and richness in tradition, her costume is significant in symbolizing India’s role in fostering diplomatic and cultural connections. The “Golden Bird” not only promotes an image of India that is culturally rich, but one that is also engaged in meaningful international partnerships. As Miss Universe provides a global platform, Singha’s costume communicates India’s openness to mutual growth and partnership, reinforcing its commitment to international cooperation and understanding.
Ashley Callingbull, Canada
The first indigenous woman to be crowned Miss Universe Canada, Ashley Callingbull’s national costume is a beautiful tribute to her indigenous heritage, designed to honor her Cree roots. The costume is a statement of pride, featuring intricate beadwork and vibrant colors with lights, showcasing the artistry of Indigenous women. With her ensemble, Callingbull emphasizes the importance of Indigenous representation and the preservation of traditions. Her moment on stage was deeply impactful, as she carried the stories and strength of her community to a global audience.
Halima Hoy, Belize
Halima Hoy’s national costume reinforced Belize’s unique identity in a globally resonant way by emphasizing the urgency of climate change. The colorful ensemble is inspired by the Maya Deer Dance, a traditional performance dedicated to respect for the environment. The costume, called “Xwankil,” meaning “power,” conveys the significance of climate change by highlighting the Maya people’s enduring connection to the land. Featuring antlers, mirrors, images of burning forests, and written messages on the fabric, the costume is designed to encourage and promote international awareness of climate challenges, and the need for sustainable stewardship of natural resources.
Alina Ponomarenko, Ukraine
“For centuries, Ukrainian people fought for the right to be masters of their land. The motherland and freedom are the greatest values of every Ukrainian,” the beauty queen penned in her Instagram post. The costume, titled “Power of My Land,” is a powerful representation of resilience against the backdrop of ongoing challenges in Ukraine; it combines a floral print and organza skirt with an armor-inspired bodice made of silver artificial leather to symbolize the strength and protective spirit of Ukraine. The red poppy on Ponomarenko’s chest traditionally represents both beauty and sacrifice in Ukrainian culture, specifically honoring those who have fallen defending the country. Additionally, the queen’s headpiece is adorned with “steel flowers” that serve as a somber reminder of landmines scattered across Ukraine, illustrating the devastating legacy of war on Ukrainian soil.
“Power of My Land” embodies the unbreakable resilience of the Ukrainian people, transforming the global Miss Universe stage into a platform for raising awareness about the profound human and environmental impacts of conflict. It symbolizes solidarity, strength, and pride, reminding the world of Ukraine’s enduring spirit amidst adversity.
Chelsea Manalo, Philippines
“Faith can navigate us through life,” is the vision for Chelsea Manalo’s “Hiraya” costume for Miss Universe 2024. Intricately weaving the country’s religious roots and its rich cultural history, the costume design incorporates Catholic iconography, such as the image of Our Lady of Antipolo on its bright blue train, Islamic influences through the use of traditional fabrics like Inaul, and ornamental and detailed elements such as Tongkaling bells, Puni, and the fans for a singkil dance. The silver-and-gold headpiece shaped like a beaded boat is a symbol for the Galleon Trade that connected the Philippines and Mexico. “Hiraya” celebrates the Philippines’ religious harmony and the resilience and hope that faith inspires.
Photos and Featured Image: SAKHILE DUBE, RHEA SINGHA, MISS UNIVERSE BELIZE, ALINA PONOMARENKO, CHELSEA MANALO, MARIE DANCI (via Instagram)
