Miss Universe Australia unveils national costume for pageant final
Maria Thattil, 27, has revealed the jaw-dropping Australian “national costume” she’’ll be wearing at this year’s Miss Universe pageant.
When it comes to designing a national costume for Miss Universe, Australia has presented some questionable looks.
There’s been everything from Dame Edna-inspired styles to literal translations of Australia’s spectacular colours.
However, this year’s costume has been branded “incredible” after Maria Thattil, 27, shared a series of snaps posing in the gown she will be wearing at this year’s pageant final.
Thattil, who was born in Australia to Indian migrants, will be representing the country at the international event in May.
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On Wednesday, the model revealed the look to her Instagram followers who were left in awe over the meaning behind the striking, black and white feathered dress.
“This costume was inspired by the Black Swan – a native Australian bird, the emblem of Western Australia and a symbol of HOPE,” Thattil began the post.
“Up until the 16th century, Swans were widely believed to be invariably white - the term ‘Black Swan’ originated from a Western belief that it was an Impossible Avian just because it wasn’t accounted for.”
She went on to say the Black Swan is a symbol of the unexpected and overcoming the impossible.
“It symbolises the beauty and wonder in being open for CHANGE. As the Black Swan defied generalised assumptions, similarly, I have challenged many norms in order to stand as Miss Universe Australia, and believe in breaking barriers and expectations of women and people of colour in society.”
The costume consists of tight-fitting trousers with white stripes, and a corset-style top with black, white and red detailing.
To help create the look, it has been constructed with a total of 105 feathers — each hand cut from stiffened lightweight fabric and edge bound.
The 27-year-old said it was imperative she embody the meaning of the outfit as it is in line with the true Australian spirit “of challenging moulds to be more inclusive and open to ALL”.
The post has been bombarded with hundreds of comments with many describing the look as the “Best Australia national costume for far”.
“This costume is divine!” former Miss Universe Australia Tegan Martin wrote.
“You look beautiful. I love the symbolism,” another person added, while a third said: “It took me ages to realise this was a costume it looks like art it’s unreal.”
Others branded it “incredible”, “divine” and “iconic”.
It was made by Perth designer Nicola Yeung, who also created 2019 Miss Universe Australia Francesca Hung’s national gown, which was inspired by the golden wattle.
“Wow this is incredible,” Hung commented on Thattil’s post.
Thattil was crowned 2020’s Miss Universe Australia in October.
The Melbourne-based influencer and fashion blogger has a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a masters in human resources and works in talent acquisition for the government.
She will head overseas to represent Australia in the Miss Universe final in May on a special travel exemption.
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