The Miss Universe 2023 national costume show on November 16, 2023 (CST) pays homage to some of the world's richest heritage.
Set against the backdrop of the José Adolfo Pineda Arena in San Salvador, El Salvador, 84 delegates personified their nation's legacy through the lens of the creative teams' unbridled imagination, resulting in a symphony of colors and cultures.
While every single one of them stunned the audiences with her breathtaking ensemble, 12 stood out from the rest.
It's not merely about the design aesthetic, but also about how these candidates carry themselves, and infuse each stride with the spirit and essence of their cultural identity.
Read: 14 evening gown standouts at Miss Universe 2023 preliminaries
Miss Nicaragua Sheynnos Palacios
Designer: Jorge Salazar
Inspiration: El Zanate (great-tailed grackle)
MISS TRINIDAD & TOBAGO FAITH GILLEZEAU
Designer: Douglas John
Inspiration: Scarlet moko jumbie/stilt walker
MISS BRAZIL MARIA BRECHANE
Designer: Helerson Da Maia
Inspiration: Blue macaw
MISS EL SALVADOR ISABELLA GARCIA-MANZO
Designer: Marina Toybina
Inspiration: Rebirth of El Salvador through a volcanic eruption
MISS PHILIPPINES MICHELLE MARQUEZ DEE
Designer: Michael Barassi
Inspiration: The Philippine archipelago and tourism as well as Michelle's role as an Air Force reservist
Read: Michelle Dee reveals inspiration for national costume at Miss Universe 2023
MISS UKRAINE ANGELINA USANOVA
Designer: MÜ Production
Inspiration: Mother Protector defending children in the face of war
MISS MEXICO MELISSA FLORES
Designer: Angel Raméz
Inspiration: Guardiana Alebrije (spirit guide)
MISS RUSSIA MARGARITA GOLUBEVA
Designer: Malyarova Olga
Inspiration: Swan Imperial
MISS HONDURAS ZU CLEMENTE
Designer: Danilo García
Inspiration: Lenca women (indigenous group dedicated to crafting)
MISS BOLIVIA ESTEFANY RIVERO GIESSE
Designer: Mitzuki Tzukihime
Inspiration: Paraba Barba Azul raising awareness on extinction
MISS SAINT LUCIA EARLYCA MAKEBA FREDERICK
Inspiration: Nobel Prize winners from her country
MISS LAOS PHAIMANY LATHSABANTHAO
Designer: Billy Si Ampahan
Inspiration: "Lue" lifestyle symbolizing patience
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