Miss Universe Australia divides opinion with black swan-inspired national costume for pageant final – following a string of the country’s VERY controversial looks in the past
Australia has presented a string of questionable looks for the annual Miss Universe pageant’s National Costume competition over the years.
Now Miss Universe Australia Maria Thatti, 27, has unveiled the ensemble she will wear in May to showcase the country on the world stage.
Appearing on Channel Nine’s Today breakfast program, the young model gave an exclusive first look at the costume, which is sure to divide the nation.
Ruffling feathers! Miss Universe Australia Maria Thattil (pictured) has divided opinion with her new black swan-inspired national costume for the international pageant in May
Maria, who was born in Australia to Indian migrants, gave a run down on what the garment represented after host Karl Stefanovic expressed his confusion.
‘So, my costume is inspired by the black swan, designed by Perth designer Nicola Yeung from WA. This is the emblem of WA and it’s a symbol of hope,’ she began.
‘In essence black swans were thought to be something that wasn’t possible, swans were thought to be invariably white so when they discovered this, it was a symbol of overcoming the impossible and challenging the norm.’
‘It’s a symbol of overcoming the impossible and challenging the norm’: Perth designer Nicola Yeung created the feather-look and moving garment via inspiration from black swans
Stunner: Maria, who is an influencer and fashion blogger from Melbourne, was crowned 2020’s Miss Universe Australia in October
The costume consists of tight-fitting trousers with white stripes, and a corset-style top with black, white and red detailing.
There are large feathered wings that protrude around Maria’s waist and section above her head that spin via a a battery-operated motor.
Maria, who is an influencer and fashion blogger from Melbourne, was crowned 2020’s Miss Universe Australia in October.
She also has a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a masters in human resources and works in talent acquisition for the government.
Maria will head overseas to compete in the Miss Universe international final in May thanks to a special travel exemption.
Good luck! Maria will head overseas to compete in the Miss Universe international final in May thanks to a special travel exemption
Designer Nicola Yeung also created 2019 Miss Universe Australia Francesca Hung’s national gown, which was inspired by golden wattle.
For the first time in many years, fashion critics were thrilled with the national costume following a string of very questionable looks.
The frock featured 20 metres of silk, descends into a giant wattle-shaped skirt, with each petal individually hand dyed to bring the floral to life.
What a look: Designer Nicola Yeung also created 2019 Miss Universe Australia Francesca Hung’s national gown, which was inspired by golden wattle (pictured)