Bryoni Govender stands radiant in her Miss Universe national costume. Image: Instagram via @bryoni.govender

Bryoni Govender stands radiant in her Miss Universe national costume. Image: Instagram via @bryoni.govender

Bryoni Govender’s Miss Universe costume steals the show

Bryoni Govender, Mzansi’s Miss Universe hopeful, graced the global stage in a gown with a fusion of African and Indian influences.

Bryoni Govender stands radiant in her Miss Universe national costume. Image: Instagram via @bryoni.govender

Bryoni Govender stands radiant in her Miss Universe national costume. Image: Instagram via @bryoni.govender

In a dazzling display of cultural fusion, Bryoni Govender, South Africa’s first-runner up for Miss Universe, stole the spotlight with a national costume that seamlessly blends African and Indian influences.

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BRYONI GOVENDER’S DRESS

Bryoni Govender’s dress was designed by the talented Casey Jeanne, a bridal designer venturing into the world of pageantry. The gown is a modern take on the traditional sari, adorned with intricate Zulu and Ndebele beading that creates the famed geometrical shapes.

Casey Jeanne faced a unique challenge in crafting her first-ever national costume for a Miss Universe contestant. Determined to avoid the pitfalls of a “gaudy” ensemble, Jeanne set out to embody the essence of a sari while infusing it with the vibrancy of Zulu beading.

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BRYONI GOVENDER: SOUTH AFRICAN DESIGNS

The result? A striking green gown that not only represents South Africa’s current colours but also symbolizes a harmonious marriage of two distinct cultures.

The choice of green as the main colour holds profound significance. It represents South Africa on the global stage. It’s a nod to the country’s rich landscapes and diverse people.

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BRYONI GOVENDER: CULTURAL DIVERSITY

Casey Jeanne took a departure from her usual evening wear designs. She embraced the challenge, putting her unique spin on the costume.

The meticulous beading process, the most time-consuming aspect, added an extra layer of sophistication to the ensemble.

For Bryoni Govender, the national costume is more than just attire. It’s a personal reflection of her heritage and cultural diversity.

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MISS UNIVERSE PAGEANT

Excited about representing South Africa at Miss Universe, Govender expressed her comfort and pride in wearing a costume that intricately ties together the fabrics, colours, and designs from her Indian and African roots.

As the Miss Universe Pageant 2023 approaches, anticipation builds for the moment when Bryoni Govender graces the stage in this cultural masterpiece.

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GOOD LUCK, BRYONI!

The Miss Universe platform has consistently provided contestants with the opportunity to express their cultural identity through elaborate national costumes.

Bryoni’s gown promises to be a visual feast, a kaleidoscope of cultures that captivates and celebrates the diversity she proudly carries.

Tune in on 19 November at 3 am as Bryoni showcases this unique cultural fusion on the global stage, reminding us all that beauty is not just skin deep—it’s a vibrant tapestry woven with the threads of tradition, innovation, and unity.

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