The 2023 Miss Universe competition is underway in New Orleans, Louisiana, and the contestants are not holding back when it comes to their evening gowns. The preliminary round, which took place on January 11, showcased the stunning outfits of all 84 women vying for the coveted crown. Here are some of the highlights from the glamorous event.
Miss USA dazzles in a sparkling silver gown
R’Bonney Gabriel, the representative of the host country, made a lasting impression with her sparkling silver gown that featured a high slit and a plunging neckline. The 25-year-old model and entrepreneur paired her outfit with matching heels and earrings and wore her hair in a sleek ponytail. She also showed off her confident walk and smile as she strutted on the stage. Gabriel is hoping to become the ninth Miss USA to win the Miss Universe title, following Olivia Culpo in 2012.
Miss Uruguay stuns in a red velvet dress
Carla Romero, the representative of Uruguay, turned heads with her red velvet dress that hugged her curves and had a dramatic train. The 23-year-old law student and activist accessorized her look with a silver belt, a necklace, and a bracelet. She also wore her hair in a bun and added a touch of red lipstick to complete her elegant appearance. Romero is the first woman of African descent to represent Uruguay at the Miss Universe competition, and she is aiming to break the stereotypes and barriers that exist in her country.
Miss India shines in a golden gown
Divita Rai, the representative of India, sparkled in a golden gown that had intricate embroidery and sequins. The 22-year-old engineer and social worker also wore a matching headpiece, earrings, and rings, and had her hair in a bun with a few strands framing her face. She also displayed her graceful pose and poise as she walked on the stage. Rai is the first woman from the northeastern state of Assam to represent India at the Miss Universe competition, and she is passionate about promoting education and empowerment for girls.
Miss Indonesia impresses in a green satin dress
Laksmi De Neefe Suardana, the representative of Indonesia, impressed the judges and the audience with her green satin dress that had a slit and a ruffled shoulder. The 24-year-old actress and singer also wore a pair of green earrings and a ring and had her hair in a side-swept style. She also flaunted her radiant smile and personality as she walked on the stage. Sardinia is the first woman from the island of Bali to represent Indonesia at the Miss Universe competition, and she is an advocate for mental health and environmental awareness.
Miss Vietnam mesmerizes in a blue lace gown
Nguyen Thi Ngoc Chau, the representative of Vietnam, mesmerized everyone with her blue lace gown that had a sheer bodice and a long train. The 21-year-old student and model also wore a pair of blue earrings and a bracelet and had her hair in a bun with a blue flower. She also demonstrated her elegant posture and charm as she walked on the stage. Chau is the first woman from the southern province of Binh Duong to represent Vietnam at the Miss Universe competition, and she is a supporter of animal welfare and cultural diversity.
These are just some of the amazing evening gowns that were seen at the 2023 Miss Universe preliminary competition. The final show, which will be hosted by Steve Harvey and Olivia Culpo, will take place on January 14 and will feature the top 20 contestants who will compete in swimsuits, evening gowns, and interview rounds. The winner will be crowned by the reigning Miss Universe, Andrea Meza of Mexico, and will receive the “Force for Good” crown, which is made of diamonds and blue sapphires.
