Miss South Africa, Mia le Roux gracefully took to the runway at AFI Cape Town Fashion Week, revealing the national costume originally designed for her appearance at the 73rd Miss Universe pageant in Mexico.
Unfortunately, Mia was could not wear the costume at the competition, as she had to make an unexpected withdrawal due to suffering from severe vertigo after seeking medical treatment during the competition.
The stunning Ndebele inspired gown that boasts with Dr Esther Mahlangu’s original Ndebele artwork, was designed in collaboration with the Hollywood costumes and AFI SA through the Esther Mahlangu foundation. With white cloud wings which were crafted from feathers sourced by Cape Karoo International from Mia’s hometown, Oudtshoorn.
The Miss South Africa organisation recently took to their Instagram page to share the pictures of Mia in her national costume. The organisation cites that the garment donned by Mia celebrates South Africa’s cultural richness and interconnectedness.
Captioning their post: “These wings are inspired by Mia’s own journey, symbolising her first spoken words after receiving her cochlear implant: ‘Look there are white clouds.’ Now her voice reaches across the world, sharing a message of hope and unity.”
Mia said this about the costume: “My national costume is a tribute to the diversity that defines my heritage. In my spirit, in my environment and in the abundance of creativity that is being created and shared by South African artists, I resonate with the bold, colourful and vibrant expressions that reflect our complexity.”
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Instagram users were not happy about the costume.
One user said: “If this is what Mia was going to wear, then her not participating was a blessing in disguise, because what level of embarrassment is this.”
While another one said: “At this point there was no point to reveal this. Can we close this Miss Universe chapter and move on to 2025. Miss SA is messing around with true supporters and fans.”
Also see: Mia Le Roux to reveal national costume at AFI Cape Town Fashion week | Bona Magazine
