The 69th edition of Miss Universe has been the longest; giving contestants the required time to prepare and style themselves at the next level.
A little background check on the year 2020- from Dua Lipa’s dance anthems, cottagecore and the escapism to the calm life to the voices that needed to be heard; the defining aesthetic of the year has been fusion of creativity and expression. Fashion on this spectrum has been like a vehicle to deliver the undying spirit that we possess.
So here we go for the style that captured the spirit of our heart that still lurks in the ‘70s here and there!
Sway it with the ponytail!
Whether it is a casual nod to the super formal event like the Miss Universe or just a simple act of letting the hair have a life of its own, the pony tail has been making an appearance and being a suitable style for the winner/runner-ups positions. It all started with the wavy pony sported by Janine Tugonon of the Philippines in the 2012 edition of Miss Universe, Anntonia Porxild of Thailand for the Miss Supranational title in 2019 and finally sported by the 2nd Runner up of this edition Janick Maceta of Peru. Though the latter kept it sleek straight, Anntonia and Janine both had wavy tresses to their ponies.
Statement earrings
Now that the gowns don’t have to be flamboyant enough, gone are the days of minimal earrings that would not distract the eye from the gown or the contestant herself. From bold studded drop earrings to rings that compliment the color of the gown. This maximalist approach has been the result of having sleeker gowns and to balance the style with elements that may or may not have an emphasis on the shoulder area.
Shoulder a bit bolder
Call it an ode to the infinite ‘70s or ‘80s but this edition of Miss Universe is having all the fun with power shoulder pads and construction on the shoulder. As it did see emergence in the national competition, it was no different for the international stage to host some couture influences. The strapless fits did have their moment in early 2014-2018, the pronounced shoulder would be quite a stellar proposition for more dramatic effect. Sported by Chile, Bolivia, Italy and Cameroon prominently!
Saved by the Turtle(necks)!
Call me too impressed by this or it’s just a way of elongating the neck, but the turtleneck has made it to the stage! I am glad this has made its way into high end couture as the trend enjoyed it’s retail success in ‘90s and sometime back in 2018/2019. Iceland, Argentina and Curacao made this look fashionable!
Full on sleeves!
2018 was an impactful year for pageantry as the edition was held in Thailand with full glamor and pomp. 2nd Runner-up Venezuela made the headlines with her shy yet powerful performance in the nude feather embroidered gown with full sleeves. The look, heavily reminding us of Cher in her fashionable ‘70s days, made an appearance in this edition. Though the silhouette was kept mermaid like, the full sleeves accommodate the shoulder pad precisely. Look upto Italy, Argentina, Indonesia (special mention to the gloves and sleeve attachment, so innovative and dramatic) for the inspiration.
Gloves + Sleeves = Gloves and Sleeves
While many may or may not understand why gloves have made a comeback. But you can thank Bridgerton and the whole fandom going crazy over the sight of elegance that it provides. The pageantry staple (ever since the international pageantry took place, gloves have been inseparable) did see it’s vanishing in the start of 21st century as the focus shifted to the fabrics and the fusion-like silhouette. Come 2020 and gloves made their way back into the scene. Miss Earth Philippines went for velvet gloves for her finale look.
Following the suite, South Africa, Indonesia and Czech Republic brought this sophisticated yet edgy accessory back on stage!
The Maxi Skirt
The year was 2015 and the excess fabric trend of the 2010’s was still on the stage and it was Dominican Republic that sported a white gown with a full flowy skirt and that was the last time I saw a free flowing skirt because the bodycon style dominated the stage. Cut back to 2021, the maxi skirt derived from the maxi dresses having excess of fabric providing movement and longer strides. The playfulness always keeps the silhouette fresh. This can see a good resurgence as more innovative fabrics can help it elevate. Dominican Republic repeated this feat this year as both the preliminary and finale looks had gorgeous maxi flowing skirts. Puerto Rico and Nepal too had the same influence with PR having more playful showcase while Nepal bringing embellished skirts!
Updated Ball Gowns!
I would take you back to 2018 and remind you of the ball gown royalty that was Russia. Now in the 69th edition we see two presentations of innovation in this classic silhouette. Japan, dominated with the aspiring color of the year- neon green with tulle and cascade-like ruffled front and corseted bodice. She enhanced it with perfect sharp and edgy makeup that elevated her personality to some other level. It has made a special place in my heart.
Singapore brought back the needed fierceness on the MU stage. Architectural folds and I was sold; the look was the literal definition of edgy. She performed with an equal attitude that made it work. Singapore was there to make a statement and an everlasting impact. She succeeded in it and somewhere we did too. This is an important lesson to learn- always dress to match your personality and what you would be bringing to the table.
Preparedness comes in all forms and your wardrobe would always be a good start to put forth your passion for the job!
So this was the good round off of the style spottings that took place just a month back. While we are embracing this 360 degree aspect in pageantry, I am glad MU is more out there and shatter the conservative quotient.
Remember, your confidence, patience and will are all important to secure a presentation!
Drop a message or a comment and tell me which style spotting blew you away!
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