By Carissa Alcantara
Beauty and elegance are some of the qualities each candidate highlights during the evening gown segment of the Miss Universe Competition. Each design presents a piece of symbolism from the creators.
Over the years, the evening gown became a significant part of the prestigious beauty pageant.
And here are some of the iconic evening gowns showcased on the Miss Universe stage in recent years!
Oxana Fedorova (Russia, 2002)
Winning the crown in Miss Universe 2002, Oxana Fedorova's evening gown from Tom Ford's Spring/Summer 2002 embodies simplicity. The long strapless bridal gown has been one of the most iconic evening gowns in Miss Universe.
Zuleyka Rivera (Puerto Rico, 2006)
Designed by Carlos Alberto, Miss Universe Puerto Rico Zuleyka Rivera became a showstopper after wearing a see-through metallic gown. Alberto's design brought Zuleyka's curvaceous physique and beauty to the next level.
Royi Mori (Japan, 2007)
Known for her iconic Kimono evening gown, Miss Universe 2007 Royi Mori ended her reign with a statement as she stepped onstage in a sexy and classy tuxedo. Obviously not an evening gown but her outfit made a mark in the Miss Universe stage.
Chalita Suansane (Thailand, 2016)
Inspired by the Thai Chakri dress, Chalita Suansane's evening gown was designed by Polpat Asavaprapha and Asava Group. She made history by becoming the first contestant from Thailand to have entered the Top 6 since Porntip Nakhirunkanok Simon in 1988.
Zozibini Tunzi (South Africa, 2019)
South Africa's custom-made ombre evening gown gained the audience's attention made by South African couture house Biji La Maison. The gown represents the South African coast.
Rachel Peters (2017)
Despite the issues with her evening gown, Rachel Peters stunned the audience on her runway walk during the Miss Universe 2017, designed by Val Taguba; the silver curve-baring dress with a feathered skirt stands out.
Catriona Gray (2018)
Made by Mark Tumang, Catriona Gray's dashing red gown was inspired by a volcano's mythical heroine, the "Daragang Magayon," a mythical princess.
Beatrice Luigi Gomez (2021)
Just like Catriona's red evening gown, Pinoy designer Francis Libiran also did his rendition of a red gown with Miss Universe Philippines 2021 Beatrice Luigi Gomez. He called the look bold and feisty, describing the color red as a “symbol of bravery and courage, especially for the Filipino.
Huong Pham (2015)
Inspired by their long Vietnamese gown, "ao dai." Miss Vietnam Huong Pham gets the attention of the audience as she walks the runway wearing a long white gown designed by Do Long.
Pia Wurtzbach (2015)
She is known for her iconic win in 2015. Pia Wurtzbach's blue gown, designed by Albert Andrada, has become one of the most popular evening gowns in Miss Universe history.
Olivia Culpo (2012)
Olivia Culpo's red ballroom V-neck gown created quite a rage, when she walked down the ramp elegantly at the pageant finale. The gown was quintessentially a princess gown, with a poofy tulle skirt and plunging neckline. She completed the look with long diamond earrings and a slick top bun.
Iris Mittenaere (2016)
Taking home the crown in Miss Universe 2016, Iris Mittenaere's see-through gown made by Vietnamese designer Hoang Hai. Highlights the gold and silver sequins that make the dress even better.
Sthefany Gutierrez (2018)
Designed by Venezuelan designer Nihal Nouaihed, Miss Venezuela 2018 Sthefany Gutierrez silver-nude gown presents a "fireworks"-like display over a nude illusion bas