10 killer national costumes at the Miss Universe 2017 competition

Stunning national costumes

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The Miss Universe 2017 competition has just wrapped up in Manila, Philippines and this year’s National Costume segment was an eye-catching affair.

Scroll through the gallery to see some of the most outstanding pieces worn by the contestants from around the world.

Photo: Maria Mika Maxine Medina / Instagram

Related: 15 life lessons to learn after watching Miss Universe Beauty Pageant

Kezia Roslin Cikita Warouw, representing Indonesia

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Channeling the holy bird Garuda in Hinduism, this magnificent pantsuit represents the strength and swiftness of the respected creature.

Photo: Kezia Roslin / Instagram

Related: 15 life lessons to learn after watching Miss Universe Beauty Pageant

Connie Maily, representing Ecuador

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From one bird to the other… Miss Ecuador stands out from the crowd with this beautiful hummingbird inspired costume that made us go, “Wow”.

Photo: Connie Maily / Instagram

Related: 15 life lessons to learn after watching Miss Universe Beauty Pageant

Marina Jacoby, representing Nicaragua

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We’re definitely seeing a trend here; it seems like the fascination with the colourful world of birds is undying. Here, Miss Nicaragua dons a show-stopping peacock-inspired number.

Photo: Miss Universe / Instagram

Related: 15 life lessons to learn after watching Miss Universe Beauty Pageant

 

Kiran Jassal, representing Malaysia

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The Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur is a key tourist attraction in Malaysia so it comes as no surprise when Miss Malaysia has chosen this futuristic-looking and glittery number that reminds us of the iconic site.

Photo: Sash Factor / Instagram

Related: 15 life lessons to learn after watching Miss Universe Beauty Pageant

Sal Garcia, representing Dominican Republic

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Here’s another bird-inspired outfit worn by Miss Dominican Republic. This bright and cheery costume is completed with floral embellishments.

Photo: Miss Universe / Instagram

Related: 15 life lessons to learn after watching Miss Universe Beauty Pageant

Johanna Acs, representing Germany

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Doesn’t the castle remind you of the fairy tales that we used to read when we were little? Well, that’s exactly what it’s meant for. This costume represents the Brothers Grimm from Germany who were the brains behind Cinderella, Snow White and The Frog Prince.

Photo: Johanna Acs / Instagram

Related: 15 life lessons to learn after watching Miss Universe Beauty Pageant

Le Hang, representing Vietnam

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Miss Vietnam looked fabulous with her knee-high gladiator boots, shining tassels, as well as the lotus model attached to her back.

Photo: Miss Universe / Instagram

Related: 15 life lessons to learn after watching Miss Universe Beauty Pageant

 

Li Zhen Ying, representing China

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Giant pandas have long been synonymous with China so it comes as no surprise that this year’s Miss China is wearing the adorable animal with so much pride.

Photo: Li Zhen Ying / Instagram

Related: 15 life lessons to learn after watching Miss Universe Beauty Pageant

Cheryl Chou, representing Singapore

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21-year-old Chou wore an elaborate Peranakan-inspired headpiece by award-winning costume designer Moe Kasim. Kasim blended elements from the Malay and Chinese culture by adding Chinese lanterns to the Malay bridal headpiece, and topped it off with Swarovski crystals.

Photo: Miss Universe 

 

Related: 15 life lessons to learn after watching Miss Universe Beauty Pageant

Maria Mika Maxine Medina, representing Philippines

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Doesn’t Miss Philippines look like a stunning goddess who’s emerged from the ocean? The striking gown and headdress are inspired by the colourful vinta boat, the corals as well as the South Sea pearls of Mindanao.

Photo: Maria Mika Maxine Medina / Instagram

Related: 15 life lessons to learn after watching Miss Universe Beauty Pageant