Top Miss Universe 2024 National Costumes, According to Style Experts

The Miss Universe 2024 national costume competition once again dazzled pageant fans with a breathtaking showcase of culture, tradition, and artistry. Each ensemble was crafted with meticulous detail, reflecting the unique heritage of each contestant’s country.

While all the costumes were made with passion and creativity, some stood out more than others. Filipino style experts, including renowned fashion designers and stylists, shared their top picks from the preliminary competition held on Nov. 15 (Philippine time).

Philippines

Chelsea Manalo's national costume was a standout for designer Ehrran Montoya. Designed by Manny Halasan, the gold and blue gown symbolized the intertwined roots of Christianity and Islam in the Philippines.

"The fusion of Mexican and Filipino heritage was a bold choice," Montoya said, praising Halasan’s signature bejeweled elements. He also lauded the color combination for complementing Chelsea’s skin tone and the unique headpiece that deviated from traditional halo designs. The fan accessories further emphasized Filipino culture, completing the striking look.

Paraguay

Naomi Méndez of Paraguay commanded attention with her costume inspired by the resilience of Paraguayan women. The ensemble featured military-style armor, a grand feathered backpiece with 1,000 meticulously arranged feathers, and a headdress resembling the shield of the Paraguayan flag.

Montoya described her look as "a delight for the eyes," praising its lightweight structure and the balance between grandeur and practicality. He also highlighted the well-constructed design that allowed for fluid movement, with the gold bodice perfectly complementing the white feathers.

Egypt

Egypt's Logina Salah honored the legendary Cleopatra with a costume titled "The Rise from the Tomb." This dazzling outfit symbolized the powerful legacy of female leadership, adorned with intricate embellishments and a cape featuring hand-painted pyramids and the Sphinx.

Stylist Monika Ravanera applauded Salah for carrying the costume with grace. "The colors suited her, and as an advocate for vitiligo awareness, the outfit blended seamlessly with her skin. Plus, it was designed by a Filipino, Simeon Cayetano," she noted.

Italy

Italy's Glelany Cavalcante paid homage to the country's cinematic legacy with a costume inspired by Cinecittà Studios in Rome. The black-and-white ensemble featured a striking headpiece and a voluminous skirt designed to resemble film reels.

Ravanera appreciated the creative concept, calling it a refreshing change from the vibrant, oversized costumes. "It's playful and spunky—a perfect palate cleanser," she remarked.

New Zealand

Victoria Vincent of New Zealand took inspiration from the fantail, a native songbird, with a costume that elegantly fanned out to create the illusion of wings.

Designer Jamela Reginaldo admired the bold use of black and white, describing it as "brilliant" and visually striking. She also praised the intricate feather details and the overall doodle-art aesthetic.

Zimbabwe

Sakhile Dube of Zimbabwe embodied the Soaring Eagle, a symbol of her nation’s majesty and heritage. The costume’s colorful wings reflected the rainbow over Victoria Falls, while the rock-patterned base paid tribute to the Great Dzimbadzemabwe ruins.

Reginaldo called the ensemble "cool and unique," appreciating how the rock-like details grounded the eagle’s dynamic design. "It’s a stunning and well-executed piece, with tones and textures that blend beautifully," she added.

These standout costumes not only showcased the artistry of their designers but also celebrated the rich cultural narratives of their respective countries, making the Miss Universe 2024 competition a true visual spectacle.