Former Pinoy Big Brother: OTSO housemate Franki Russell was eye-catching at the National Costume Show of Miss Cosmo International 2024.
Representing New Zealand, Franki dazzled the audience in her "Kiwi Angel" national costume, a stunning combination of silver and black.
The pageant's National Costume Show took place at the Thung Nham Ecotourism Zone in Ninh Binh, Vietnam on Thursday, September 19, 2024.
Franki's costume featured intricately-detailed wings adorned with fern elements and embellished with hundreds of crystals. It was designed by Filipino creator Simeon Cayetano, who hails from Pangasinan.
Read: Franki Russell, grateful for the chance to compete in Miss Cosmo
DETAILS OF FRANKI RUSSELL'S NATIONAL COSTUME
Before the competition, Franki had a photo shoot with renowned fashion photographer Xander Angeles.
She shared the stunning photos on her Instagram account.
Her glam team included stylist Patrick Henry Mergano, make-up artist Roge Bernaldez and hairstylist Rozel Serrato.
In her post's caption, Franki elaborated on the inspiration behind her national costume.
The costume draws from New Zealand's rich culture, utilizing black and silver to reflect pop culture, wildlife, and national symbols.
The color black is a tribute to New Zealand's All Blacks rugby team, symbolizing sports excellence.
The bodice is inspired by the endangered Kiwi bird, a cherished part of New Zealand’s wildlife.
And the silver fern represents unity and pride, woven into the costume’s fabric.
Here is Franki's Instagram caption, published as is:
"Kia Ora! [emoji] I’m excited to introduce my national costume as Miss Cosmo New Zealand: the Kiwi Angel. This design truly embodies New Zealand’s strength, resilience, and enduring spirit. [emoji]
"The inspiration behind the costume comes from our rich culture, using black and silver colors to reflect our pop culture, wildlife, and national symbols.
"The black honors the internationally renowned All Blacks rugby team, a symbol of excellence in sports that resonates with many Kiwis.
"The bodice is inspired by the endangered Kiwi bird, which is a rare and cherished part of New Zealand’s wildlife.
"Additionally, the silver fern, a national emblem, represents unity and pride, woven into the very fabric of our nation.
"Together, these elements come together to create the Kiwi Angel, which symbolizes the optimism and strength of New Zealand and its people.
"As I embark on this journey as Miss Cosmo New Zealand, I recognize the responsibility that comes with representing my country and its values.
"It’s about more than just the visual appeal; it’s about sharing a meaningful story that connects with people both locally and globally.
"Through this experience, I’ve learned a valuable lesson: embracing and celebrating our unique identities strengthens our communities.
"Just like the elements of my costume, each individual contributes their own color and texture to the fabric of society and I hope to inspire others to take pride in who they are, to spread their wings and soar high as we celebrate our own unique stories."
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