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SASHES AND TIARAS.....Miss Universe 2021 Finals! The Winner...the TOP 10 GOWNS!

Queen Harnaaz--Miss Universe India, Harnaaz Sandhu, as she is crowned Miss Universe 2021, Eilat Israel

Last night was the 70th Miss Universe competition. The contest was held in Israel for the very first time, in the resort city of Eilat, located at the northern tip of the Red Sea. 80 women from all over the world competed for the crown but it was Harnaaz Sandhu of India who won!

And Miss Universe is...INDIA!!! The moment Miss Universe India is named Miss Universe 2021, Eilat Israel

It has been 21 years since a Miss India has won the pageant and this marks the THIRD time a contestant from India has won the coveted crown; the first being Sushmita Sen in 1994 and Lara Dutta in 2000...

India's Universal Beauties--(L to R) Sushmita Sen Miss Universe 1994, Lara Dutta Miss Universe 2000, and Harnaaz Sandhu Miss Universe 2021
Miss India Universe being crowned by the outgoing Miss Universe, Andrea Meza of Mexico--Miss Universe 2021, Eilat Israel

Harnaaz is 21 years old, stands 5' 9 1/2" (1.76 m) tall, and comes from Punjab. She was previously crowned Miss Diva Universe 2021 (the Miss India Universe) and works as a model and actress. She will now undoubtedly go on to international fame as well as possibly Bollywood stardom, as the previous other Miss Universes from India have.

Harnaaz Sandhu Miss Universe India, as she learns she is Miss Universe 2021, Eilat Israel
Miss Universe India, Harnaaz Sandhu, in her national costume--Miss Universe 20201 National Costume Presentation

Speaking of costumes...the Best Costume went to:

Miss Universe Nigeria Mariostella Okpala--Costume designed and created by Filipino designer Kennedy Jhon Gasper

Now, let's discuss the TOP TEN GOWNS:

My Top 5 Fave: (L to R) Miss Universe India, Miss Universe Paraguay, Miss Universe Colombia, Miss Universe Philippines, Miss Universe Puerto Rico

Here are my TOP 10 in EVENING GOWN--Beginning with my Top Best:

1. COLOMBIA: Valeria Ayos. This gown was my favorite from the Top 10. The strapless golden gown was STUNNING, featuring vertical shimmering sequins, jeweled crystals over a nude tulle backing with a dramatic gold lame pleated back overskirt. I thought it was the best of these golden/nude gowns. It was elegant and fit her perfectly. I also appreciated the lack of slit-up-to-there or open-here and open-there and also proves that you don't need to have a ridiculous slit or front opening to achieve Pageant Gown Drama darlings. The gown was designed by the "King" of Colombian Pageant Gowns, Alfredo Barraza. 9.90

2. PHILIPPINES: Beatrice Gomez. Beatrice's gown was impacting from the second she stepped onto the stage. I loved the drama of the silhouette of this gown, especially the exaggerated sleeve/cape. The golden/nude gown featured sequined embroidery depicting indigenous tribal patterns known as "pintados" in an art deco design. The sexy gown also featured a very open side slit (it's really a cut-out!) which has become almost a must for any pageant gal; I'm not always a fan of these but, I liked it here. Overall, I put her as my No. 2 because of the FIERCE factor of this gown; it made me stand up from my couch! The gown was designed by Francis Libiran .9.45

3. PARAGUAY: Nadia Ferreira. First of all, Nadia deserves to have a new "Miss Universe" trophy handed to her: The FACE of Miss Universe...her face is INCREDIBLE! I literally could almost care less what she was wearing when she has such a STUNNING face...but nevertheless, I was happy she wore this beautiful gown! The mint-colored dress had a crystal-embellished fitted bodice, nude sequined sleeves, a handkerchief-like bottom half with pleated chiffon, and a matching chiffon cape...for added drama. She looked ethereal and angel-like. The gown was designed by Ilse Jara .9.40
4. INDIA: Harnaaz Sandhu. The eventual winner of the contest, India's Harnaaz Sandhu wore an elegant silver/nude gown, beautiful enough to make my No. 4 spot in Best Gowns from the Miss Universe Finals. The design featured thousands of sequins and crystals over a nude tulle base in a fit-and-flare shape with a faux open v-neck (it had a nude illusion at the front), drop shoulders, and a center front slit. It fit to perfection and was conservative, compared to some of the va-va-voom slit-up-there looks seen in the pageant.Gown designed by Saisha Sinde 9.35
5. PUERTO RICO: Michelle Colon. Michelle wore this halter-style sequined gown for the Finals of the pageant. It was sexy, impacting, and very retro "Bob Mackie"/Cher (which basically sums up every other gown at these pageants nowadays!). The sequin details were done in a web-like manner, with fringe and crystals in violet-blue colors, done over nude as well as gold backing. And of course, it featured a very open side slit. 9.15

6. ARUBA: Thessaly Zimmerman. Thessaly wore the same gown she wore during the Preliminary Competition and I am not surprised she wore it for the Finals. This fitted dress featured silver sequin applique over tulle netting showcasing her fabulous figure and stature and open slit to better show her beyond-long legs. While it was a little "Figure Skating Costume"-adjacent in its nude illusion-over-sequins design, I did love the branch-like applique and it fit her like a second skin. The gown was designed by John Lecksell .9.05

7. THE BAHAMAS: Chantel O'Brian: Chantel made history last night by being the first Bahamian to place in the Top 10 at Miss Universe...so "clap, clap, clap!". For the Top 10 Evening Gown portion, she wore this silver sequined gown designed by Garimon Roferos. The fitted dress featured silver sequins over nude lining with long sleeves and a high side-front slit (of course!). The torso/top portion had the same silver paillettes but was applied over nude illusion. I wasn't such a fan of the top portion, only because it drew too much attention to the chest but...overall, she looked DIVINE in this and her face and attitude showed it! 8.99
8. SOUTH AFRICA: Lalela Mswane. Lalela wore this gown to the Finals which was different from what she had worn for the Preliminaries--a rather clean and elegant white mock-turtleneck fitted dress with long sleeves. This design was more elaborate and featured much more sequin work. This golden nude design had a "Warrior Queen"-like inspiration--from the padded shoulders to the high neck and metallic applique. It was certainly an impacting design yet, it was possibly a bit too "costume"...I might have taken maybe an inch off the length of the shoulder pads...or done without those altogether. The gown was designed by Ezra Couture Dubai .8.95
9. FRANCE: Clemence Botino. Clemence--and her gown--ended in 9th place with this golden shimmering gown. The fitted gown had a deep v-neck, high side front slit, and nude illusion "cut-outs" in the back. It's a pretty dress...it was just nice and not especially memorable, or high fashion, or impacting enough for the Miss Universe stage. It was maybe too safe; I expected something more from a Miss France, after all.8.70
10. USA: Elle Smith. The gorgeous Miss USA, Elle Smith changed the gown she wore for the Preliminaries (which I LOVED!) and wore this column design from  Michael Cinco . The gown was a strapless design in aquamarine sequins over nude tulle/illusion. I was rather underwhelmed by this. Not sure if it was the fact that her Preliminary gown was so much MORE! Or it was the color, or the big swath of nude illusion that was overwhelming and didn't really match her skin color...not sure...even her attitude on stage seemed to say "I'm sorry" (as opposed to some of the other ladies who were acting as if it was THE EVENING GOWN OLYMPICS!). 8.35
I wished she would have worn the dress she wore to the Preliminaries: Miss USA Elle Smith, Miss Universe 2021 Preliminary Competition, in Michael Cinco gown
Top 5 Miss Universe 2021--(L to R) Miss India Universe, Miss South Africa Universe, Miss Paraguay Universe, Miss Colombia Universe, and Miss Philippines Universe
CONGRATULATIONS to Harnaaz Sandhu, Miss India Universe,...the new MISS UNIVERSE!
...and Don't Forget about my "The Pageant Coloring Book" where you can create your VERY OWN Evening Gown Competition using my Fashion Illustrations! Click HERE to Purchase:

FIDM MUSEUM.....House of GUCCI Exhibit at FIDM Museum: Reception Party + Costumes!

Gaga for GUCCI--Costumes from "House of Gucci" Costume Designer Janty Yates on display at the House of Gucci Exhibit, FIDM Museum Los Angeles

All exhibition/museum and reception party photos courtesy of Alex J. Berliner/ABImages

This past Friday evening was the Reception Party in advance of the opening of the NEW limited-run "House of Gucci" Exhibition at FIDM Museum. The Exhibit is presented by MGM Studios and United Artists Releasing and runs from November 23-December 4, 2021 (all the details at the end of this post).

Photo and Video Installation display--"House of Gucci" Exhibition at FIDM Museum Los Angeles
The party celebrated the exhibition which showcases costumes from the film's Academy Award-winning costume designer, , worn by Lady Gaga, Adam Driver, Al Pacino, Jeremy Irons, and Jared Leto...as well as never-before-seen photographs and a video installation as well. It is A MUST for Fashionistas, Gucci fans, as well as Costume Design aficionados.

Panoramic View of the "House of Gucci" Exhibition--Wedding dress worn by Lady Gaga in the film is shown in the foreground--"House of Gucci" Exhibition, FIDM Museum Los Angeles

Continue reading below to check out photos of the costumes on display as well as the Reception Party, with guests including the "House of Gucci" costume Designer Janty Yates, as well as Flea (from Red Hot Chili Peppers), beauty vlogger EXTRAORDINAIRE Patrick Starrr, and Lady Gaga's Makeup and Hair Artists from the film...
Let's begin with THE COSTUMES:
"Black Widow"--As Patrizia Reggiani was known--Here, a black dress with tulle-veiled hat, pearl necklace, pin, and purse--"House of Gucci" Exhibition, FIDM Museum Los Angeles
Aldo and Rodolfo Gucci--(L to R) Aldo Gucci (played by Al Pacino) Suit by Leonard Logsdail Bespoke Tailors; Rodolfo Gucci (Jeremy Irons) in a suit and "GG" logo suit from Carlo Manzi Theatrical Costume Supplier London--"House of Gucci" Exhibition, FIDM Museum Los Angeles
Dapper Jeremy--Actor Jeremy Irons wearing the suit on display at the "House of Gucci" Exhibition, FIDM Museum Los Angeles
Chic Couple--Patrizia Reggiani (Lady Gaga) and Maurizio Gucci (Adam Driver) (L to R) White lace dress and jacket with belt and purse; velvet suit accessorized with vintage Gucci belt and ascot silk scarf--"House of Gucci" Exhibition, FIDM Museum Los Angeles
Meet the Family Dress--White lace applique dress worn by Lady Gaga's Patrizia Reggiani character in the "House of Gucci" film when she meets the Gucci clan (right photo)--"House of Gucci" Exhibition, FIDM Museum Los Angeles
Party Look--Red satin dress worn by KLady gaga's Patrizia Reggiani character in the "House of Gucci" film during a disco/masquerade party scene--"House of Gucci" Exhibition, FIDM Museum Los Angeles
Paolo Gucci--Pink corduroy suit worn by actor Jared Leto--"House of Gucci" Exhibition, FIDM Museum Los Angeles
Apres Ski--Red ski suit worn by Lady Gaga in the "House of Gucci" film; red vintage ski suit from Post Card Italy, YSL vintage belt and Christian Dior vintage ski goggles--"House of Gucci" Exhibition, FIDM Museum Los Angeles
Lady Who Lunches--Suits on display from the "House of Gucci" film--"House of Gucci" Exhibition, FIDM Museum Los Angeles
Halter Diva--(L) White dress with pearl beading worn by Lady gaga's Patrizia Reggiani character; (R) Patrizia Reggiani wearing a very similar dress, alongside her husband Maurizio Gucci --"House of Gucci" Exhibition, FIDM Museum Los Angeles
Here Comes The Bride--Wedding dress worn by Lady Gaga's character Patrizia Reggiani from "House of Gucci" film, Costume Designer Janty Yates--"House of Gucci" Exhibition, FIDM Museum Los Angeles
Movie vs. Reality--(L) Wedding dress costume in the "House of Gucci" film and (R) the actual wedding dress worn by Patrizia for her wedding to Maurizio Gucci in 1972
All About The Accessories--Details of some of the accessories on display including vintage Gucci ascot silk scarfs, Gucci belts, signet rings, and loafers--"House of Gucci" Exhibition, FIDM Museum Los Angeles
Reception Party Photos: "House of Gucci" Costume Designer Janty Yates--"House of Gucci" Exhibition Reception Party, FIDM Museum Los Angeles
"House of Gucci" Costume Designer Janty Yates (center) with (L to R) "House of Gucci" Head of Makeup Jana Carboni and Lady Gaga's Makeup Artist on "House of Gucci" Sara Tanno--"House of Gucci" Exhibition Reception Party, FIDM Museum Los Angeles
Musician Flea and wife and M.E. Designer and Foot Locker's first women's creative director, Melody Ehsani--"House of Gucci" Exhibition Reception Party, FIDM Museum Los Angeles
The always FABULOUS Patrick Starrr with Frederic Aspiras, Lady Gaga's Hair Designer on "House of Gucci"--"House of Gucci" Exhibition Reception Party, FIDM Museum Los Angeles
Baja East Designer Scott Studenberg and Lady Gaga's manager, Bobby Campbell--"House of Gucci" Exhibition Reception Party, FIDM Museum Los Angeles
Last but not least...
David and I were honored to have been invited to the Reception Party and of course, we attended--FIDM Fashion Design Co-Chairs David Paul and Nick Verreos along with Vice President of FIDM Education and FIDM Museum Director Barbara Bundy--"House of Gucci" Exhibition Reception Party, FIDM Museum Los Angeles
EXHIBITION DETAILS:
*WHAT: House of Gucci Exhibition Presented by MGM Studios and United Artists ReleasingThe exhibition features costumes from the film, photographs as well as a video installation
*WHERE: FIDM Museum, 919 South Grand Avenue, Los Angeles 90015
*WHEN: November 23-December 4 2021; Tuesday-Saturday; 10 AM-5 PM (closed on Thanksgiving)
*ADMISSION: FREE! Must have Proof of COVID-19 vaccination or present a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours (see below in red)
*FOR MORE INFORMATION: Click HERE !
**In accordance with the City of Los Angeles vaccination ordinance, beginning Monday, November 8, 2021, all visitors ages 12+ are required to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination. Those with medical or religious exemptions may present a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours. Face masks must be worn indoors at all times. All visitors over the age of two must wear a face mask over nose and mouth when inside buildings, including parking structures. Visitors may remove their masks when outdoors.

ICE STYLE.....Costumes Highlights from NHK Trophy and Internationaux de France 2021

Skating Style--Costumes from  Internationaux de France and NHK Trophy 2021 (L to R) Alena Kosternaia of Russia, Papadakis and Cizeron of France, Komatsubara and Koleto of Japan, and Muramoto and Takahashi of Japan

The Grand Prix of Figure Skating competition series continues and there have been several events since I last blogged on the "Ice Style" of this 2021-2022 Grand Prix series...so here's a brief BLOG COSTUME RECAP of some I wanted to highlight from the recent NHK Trophy (Japan) and Internationaux de France (France) Grand Prix that I have not discussed so far...for the most part! Let's begin with...

NHK Trophy 2021:

Misato Komatsubara and Tim Koleto Japan, Free Dance to Sayuri’s Theme (Memoirs of a Geisha soundtrack), Going to School (Memoirs of a Geisha soundtrack), The Chairman’s Waltz (Memoirs of a Geisha soundtrack), and Sayuri’s Theme and End Credits (Memoirs of a Geisha soundtrack) by John Williams, Yo-Yo Ma, Itzhak Perlman--Skating to Memoirs of a Geisha, Komatsubara and Koleto looked DIVINE in these beautiful, delicate costumes. The designs were obviously inspired by the film and the Japanese background of the story. Misato wore a pretty kimono-inspired dress in ombre-shaded light blue featuring slightly flared sleeves and a gorgeous inset Obi in peach with red and gold trim. Her makeup and hair looked STUNNING! Tim also looked great in a matching color long-sleeve top with branch-like details and dark blue-violet pants. Both were quite beautiful.9.50

Kana Muramoto and Daisuke Takahashi Japan, Rhythm Dance to Soran Bushi by Maia Barouh, Koto by CloZee--Skating to "Nippon Blues", Samurai-style "Glitch Pop" music, Muramoto and Takahashi wore these vivid and stage-strong costumes in red and black. Both looked like characters from an Anime Samurai film! I loved the geometric, angular lines, sharp silhouettes, and powerful colors. They certainly made a costume statement with these!9.45
Kana Muramoto and Daisuke Takahashi Japan, Free Dance to La Bayadere, Act 2 No.29 Andante, La Bayadere, Act 2 No.30 Tempo Di Valse, La Bayadere, Act 2 No.37 Allegretto , La Bayadere, Act 2 No.39 Vivace by Leon Minkus, perf. by Evergreen Symphony Orchestra & Kevin Galiè--La Bayadere is a classical ballet set in Royal India involving eternal love, mystery, fate, and vengeance. In these costumes, Muramoto and Takahashi embody the iconic Pas de deux of ballet dancers performing a love dance...or skate as it were. I really loved the homage to the classical ballet music and theme with these also-classical costumes. They were rich, impactful, and true to the theme. I especially loved her red with gold jeweled trim costume. If there was any minor issue, it was with the odd nude illusion panel in the front of Takahashi's costume; the color didn't really match his tone and was distracting...they should just remove it.9.00
Victoria Sinitsina and Nikita Katsalopov Russia, Rhythm Dance to You Can Leave Your Hat On (from "Nine  1/2 weeks") performed by Joe Cocker and Brick House by The Commodores--For their blues and funk-inspired Rythm Dance Sinitsina and Katsalapov decided to look like Nouveau Riche GenZ'ers in Versace-like looks ready to go to "The Club" in Ibiza...and yet, the music was NOT Ibiza-like. While I liked the Versace-like shirt print and her UBER sexy costume (OMG HER ABS!!!), I almost wanted them to be skating to Lady Gaga's "Donatella" song and not Joe Cocker and The Commodores!8.00
Sinitsina and Katsalapov Russia Free Dance to Piano Concerto No. 2 by Sergei Rachmaninov,Variations on a Theme of Paganini by Sergei Rachmaninov--This Russian ice dance pair skated gloriously...and the liquid soft-as-silk costumes mirrored their effortless skate. I liked her blue dress with matching illusion/chiffon sleeves but I especially liked Nikita's slate gray silky shirt look. It was so wise to put him in that because, literally, he skated as soft and silky as that top looked on him!9.20

Eunsoo Lim Korea Free Skate East of Eden (soundtrack) by Lee Holdridge, Searching for Eden by Karl Hugo--This is one of the prettiest and most Haute-looking costumes on the Grand Prix 2021-2022 season! This design was elegant, expensive-looking, and just right for the skate and music. I loved the softly fluttering ruffles, the corset-like shape of the bodice accentuated by the stunning sequins, and that beautiful sweetheart neckline was EVERYTHING! She looked like a Figure Skating Princess.9.75
Kaori Sakamoto Japan--I gave my "review" of Kaori's costume in a previous post but here it is again for those who missed it: Free Skate to No More Fight Left In Me by Imany, Armand Amar, Tris by Ellie Goulding, Junkie XL: For her Free Skate, Sakamoto wore this royal blue costume that made a strong color impression, especially against the white of the ice rink. Just as in the Short Program costume, the side jeweled sequin detail was utilized here to a nice effect, providing a nucleus to the stripes enveloping the design. I personally didn't think it was necessary to add the little crystals in the bustline especially since there was already so much else happening, but overall, I liked this costume.8.99
Shoma Uno Japan--I also commented on  Shoma's costume in a previous ICE STYLE post but I loved it so much, I had to repeat my comments here again: Free Skate to Bolero (Boléro IV New Breath) by Maurice Ravel, performed by Tomotaka Okamoto: Caron also created this gorgeous costume worn by Uno for his Free Skate to Ravel's "Bolero". This black and gold ensemble was giving me Toreador Couture vibes with its cropped bolero vest, gold side trim crystal detail, and super sleek lines. It was modern, stylish and yet, still had enough costume flair.9.75
Internationaux de France 2021:
Mariah Bell USA Short Program to River Flows In You by Yiruma--Mariah wore this simple royal blue costume for her Short Program. While simple and lovely from the front, it looked a bit too "I just bought this at a skating rink store" especially for an international pre-Olympic competition. But once she turned around and showed the sequined back...it got a little better, which at least added some luxe detail to an otherwise "Off the Rack" costume.7.75
Mariah Bell Free Skate to Hallelujah performed by K.D. Lang--For her Free Skate, Mariah wore this red costume which was a major style "step up" from her Short Program look. I liked the strong color and geometrically shaped rhinestone appliques and asymmetrical lines of the costume. This is more of what I'd like to see Mariah wear!9.00
Yuhana Yokoi Japan, Free Skate to Fat Bottomed Girls, We Will Rock You, and We Are the Champions by Queen--Surprise! Surprise! I LOVE this costume! I am a big fan of Queen and a big fan of this look on Yuhana which appropriately pays homage to the bigger-than-life band and music with its BOLD highlighter yellow sequined costume. The look is designed to get your attention (as if the music wasn't enough!) and it succeeds. The angular pointed details on the torso are fabulous as they give you a Rock Star Stage Impact, only heightened by all that display of stunning crystal work: One of the BEST!9.75 

Alena Kosternaia Russia, Free Skate to It's a Money (Instrumental), Lovely by Billie Eilish, Lovely (Cover version) by Galpe--For her Free Skate, Alena wore this royal blue/violet costume featuring a side display of multicolored sequined applique reminiscent of thunder/lightning. The look was accessorized with studded leather-like cuffs to give it more of a "Rock & Roll"/hipster edge, I presume. Speaking of accessories, she also added blue and gold sparkles to her face makeup...
I liked the sparkles and I liked her costume.9.00

By the way, these were much more face sparkles than she had before at her last Grand Prix, at Skate Canada International 2021: Fewer Face Sparkles and (slightly) Different Costume: Her costume was also slightly different--at Skate Canada International 2021 (above), the costume had black studded straps and more sequined applique at the neckline.

Gabriella Papadakis and Guillaume Cizeron France, Free Dance to Elegie by Gabriel Faure--Perfection doesn't even go far enough to describe Papadakis and Cizeron--both in their skate and choices of costumes. For their modern dance-meets-tango OUTSTANDING Free Dance, she wore this sexy golden sequined dress with fishtail hems and front torso "cut-out". Gabriella looked so good that she could have either stepped out of a Tango Competition (The Winner of course!) or a Red Carpet event. Guillaume for his part highlighted his perfectly toned body with a skin-tight copper/golden-hued top and black second-skin pants. I appreciated the fact that there was a hint of gold in him which almost looked as if it "rubbed" off from her. J'adore.9.50
France vs. Italy--This was a change for him from what they last wore in Gran Premio D'Italia Grand Prix Italy...Previously, he had worn a bold red top which certainly deepened the "tango" in their Free Dance (and matched her nail polish!) but admittedly, the new copper/gold one is a better and more modern choice. 

FIDM DEBUT.....FIDM DEBUT 2021 RUNWAY SHOW: The Photo Recap!

  FIDM DEBUT 2021--Fashions from the FIDM DEBUT 2021 Runway Show featuring designs from the FIDM Advanced Fashion Design Graduates Class of 2021 (L to R) Dustin Argumedo, Bella Madden, Fabian Renteria, Ruby Cai, Sofia Masuda--Cooper Building Design Space Los Angeles

This past July, we had the great privilege of continuing the annual tradition at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising FIDM of producing the FIDM DEBUT Show. This is the annual runway show which showcases the Designs from the Advanced Fashion Design graduates at FIDM. It is like a Graduate Fashion Show showing "The Best of the Best" in the Future of Fashion. As Co-Chairs of the FIDM Fashion Design and Advanced Fashion Design programs, David and I were honored to have been the "Creative Whisperers" of the show and help guide with the vision and look of the production.

FIDM Fashion Design Co-Chairs David Paul and Nick Vereros--Cooper Building Design Space Downtown Los Angeles

The show was directed by Gene Lebrock, Executive Director of FIDM Productions, and produced and choreographed by Susan Koziak and her amazing team at Koziak Productions . After all the editing and intense behind-the-scenes production work were done, the show was then live-streamed on YouTube in August for everyone to see! (Video at the end of this post!)

Behind The Scenes Filming--David Paul and Nick Verereos with Director Gene Lebrock and FIDM Productions, filming introductory footage--Cooper Building Design Space Downtown Los Angeles

Here are photos from the FIDM Advanced Fashion Design Graduate's designs from this year's FIDM DEBUT 2021 Runway Show...Photos courtesy of Alex Berliner/ ABIMAGES

Dustin Argumedo:

Models in designs from FIDM Advanced Fashion Design 2021 Graduate Dustin Argumedo (above)--FIDM DEBUT Show 2021--Cooper Building Design Space Downtown Los Angeles

Lilymoon Perez: Models in designs from FIDM Advanced Fashion Design 2021 Graduate Lilymoon Perez (above)--FIDM DEBUT Show 2021--Cooper Building Design Space Downtown Los Angeles
Bella Madden: Models in designs from FIDM Advanced Fashion Design 2021 Graduate Bella Madden (above)--FIDM DEBUT Show 2021--Cooper Building Design Space Downtown Los Angeles
Zachary Weinrich: Models in designs from FIDM Advanced Fashion Design 2021 Graduate Zachary Weinrich (above)--FIDM DEBUT Show 2021--Cooper Building Design Space Downtown Los Angeles
Jesua Rodriguez: Models in designs from FIDM Advanced Fashion Design 2021 Graduate Jesua Rodriguez (above)--FIDM DEBUT Show 2021--Cooper Building Design Space Downtown Los Angeles
Dmitry Wood: Models in designs from FIDM Advanced Fashion Design 2021 Graduate Dmitri Wood (above)--FIDM DEBUT Show 2021--Cooper Building Design Space Downtown Los Angeles
Jiarui "Ruby" Cai:
Models in designs from FIDM Advanced Fashion Design 2021 Graduate Jiarui "Ruby" Cai (above)             --FIDM DEBUT Show 2021--Cooper Building Design Space Downtown Los Angeles
Sofia Masuda: Models in designs from FIDM Advanced Fashion Design 2021 Graduate Sofia Masuda (above)--FIDM DEBUT Show 2021--Cooper Building Design Space Downtown Los Angeles
Fabian Renteria: Models in designs from FIDM Advanced Fashion Design 2021 Graduate Fabian Renteria (above)--                FIDM DEBUT Show 2021--Cooper Building Design Space Downtown Los Angeles
FIDM Fashion Design Co-Chairs Nick Verreos and David Paul with the Advanced Fashion Design Class of 2021 and Instructors--FIDM DEBUT 2021--Cooper Building Design Space Downtown Los Angeles
Watch the FIDM DEBUT 2021 Runway Show--Click below:

ICE STYLE.....Skate Canada 2021 Figure Skating Costumes: ICE DANCE and PAIRS!

 Fab Looks: Costumes from Pairs and Ice Dance seen at Skate Canada International 2021 (L to R) Wenjing Sui and Cong Han of China, Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier of Canada, and Olivia Smart and Adrian Diaz of Spain 

In my previous "Ice Style" blog post HERE, I discussed the LADIES of Skate Canada International 2021, and so now it is time to talk about the costumes from some of the ICE DANCE and PAIRS couples...

Let's start with PAIRS:

Ashley Cain-Gribble and Timothy LeDuc of USA Short Program: Skating their Short Program to The White Crow (soundtrack) by Ilan Eshkeri, performed by Lisa Batiashvili, Ashley and Timothy wore these costumes above. Based on a soft lilac/silver-gray coloration, the designs were elegant and classic. The crystal embellishments that seem to jut out from her waistband and then seen at her one-shoulder-like neckline were quite beautiful. I appreciated how the sequin details were also put on his costume...or top. These two have a great costume consistency throughout the seasons in terms of looking like they BELONG with each other...and not wasting some same old-same old black pants/black shirt on him and calling it a day!*Side note: although I couldn't find any photos to show it, Timothy had one small but important change to his costume since his last appearance at the Finlandia Trophy. Darts!! 2 fish-eye darts were added to the back of his shirt to give it that custom-fitted look. Watch the 2 skates back-to-back on YouTube and you'll notice the subtle but important change.
9.20
Free Skate to W.E. (soundtrack) by Abel Korzeniowski: Speaking of belonging with each other...these costumes are the PERFECT EXAMPLE of this. I really like these looks in which they skate to the "W.E" music. They were similar in coloring and jumpsuit styles but different in detail to the costumes they wore in their 2018 season. The updated ones (above) had darker lower halves and different sequin embellishment. Timothy even got an "upgrade" in that his top was "pumped up" with even more appliques and more crystal work than his 2018-2019 version below:9.45
Ashley Cain-Gribble and Timothy LeDuc at the 2018 Rostelecom Cup of Russia Grand Prix
Vanessa James and Eric Radford of Canada Short Program: Skating their Short Program to Shiny Happy People performed by Ruben and The Dark & AG, James and Radford wore the above looks. She wore ivory with gold details and he wore a blue mock-neck and black pants. While his look was "Meh" in design but Sexy in fit...James' costume was a high fashion look of an asymmetrically gathered halter-like neckline design with great gold crystal embellishments. I also loved the nude illusion at the side and especially how PERFECT the nude illusion color was to match her skin.8.99
Wenjing Sui and Cong Han China Short Program: Skating to Mission Impossible 2 Orchestra Suite: Part 1 by Hans Zimmer, Sui and Han looked every bit a high-flying, dangerous elite power couple...ready for some Martinis and Caviar in Cannes! Their "black-tie" looks were expensive, chic and so red carpet-worthy. I loved the design details of her costume and that "mock" plunging neckline. I also want HIS cropped jacket: It was Black Tie Menswear Couture!9.75
Free Skate to Bridge Over Troubled Water by Paul Simon, performed by Lina Eder, Bridge Over Troubled Water by Paul Simon, performed by John Legend: For the costumes for their Free Skate, Sui and Han went more of a "Romeo and Juliet"-like costume vibe. She wore an ivory with blue/violet ombre dip-dye design that was romantic and feminine, featuring a heavily sequined bodice and sleeves. It was very "Juliet: the Ice Capades" but not campy/tacky. His look played into the more subdued "gentle" prince stereotype with a high collared deep blue shirt and skin-tight pants. Both were certainly not as polished and chic as their Short Program costumes but OK nonetheless.8.90
ICE DANCE: Caroline Green and Michael Parsons USA Rhythm Dance: Doing their Rhythm Dance to The Knowledge by Janet Jackson, My Lovin' (You're Never Gonna Get It) by En Vogue, and Rhythm Nation by Janet Jackson, Green and Parsons wore this black with gold trim early 90's-looking designs piggybacking on the Janet Jackson and En Vogue music. The styling of the costumes certainly referenced Jackson's "Rhythm Nation" more than En Vogue and was restrained. Part of me wished that there would have been one or two more Janet Jackson-esque costume details but maybe I should just be happy with how they turned out; it was "Rhythm Nation" Lite.8.75 
Free Dance to Violin Concerto No. 1 "EsoConcerto": II. Adagio by Ezio Bosso and Clouds, The Mind on the (Re)Wind by Ezio Bosso arranged by Hugo Chouinard: First off, in terms of their Free Skate, I LOVED this program and loved their skate. It was modern, sleek and on a level we have not necessarily seen before from them. I also liked these sleek tie-dye-ish looks void of any sparkles, flash, and typical Ice Dance razzle-dazzle; the costumes matched the choreography and program. 9.25
Olivia Smart and Adrian Diaz Spain Rhythm Dance: Speaking of razzle-dazzle...skating to Proud Mary by Tina Turner, Smart and Diaz looked JUST RIGHT for the exciting and energetic Tina Turner music. Adrian looked MUY SEXY in his PLUNGING neckline black sequined shirt and black pants (I wished he would have done without that belt though). And Olivia was ALL TINA in that fire red caviar-beaded mini dress with a side slit. Simple design, vibrant color, and powerful impression.9.10
Charlene Guignard and Marco Fabbri Italy Rhythm Dance: Skating to Michael Jackson x Mark Ronson: Diamonds Are Invincible, Smooth Criminal by Michael Jackson, and Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough by Michael Jackson, Italians Guignard and Fabbri looked as if the House of Versace created these for them: They were stylish, sexy and modern. While the black and silver details (especially his "tuxedo" striped pants and jacket) had references to Michael Jackson, it wasn't overt or campy...and I especially LOVED that Versace-like neckline and bust detail on Guignard, it framed her torso beautifully and fit her outstandingly.9.45
Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier Canada Rhythm Dance: I cannot contain the happiness and COSTUME joy I had when I saw these colorful, fun, fabulous costumes on the Canadians Gilles and Poirier. It may not come as a shock to find out that they skated to I Guess That’s Why They Call It the Blues by Elton John and Still Standing by Elton John. I loved the bright orange, the ABBA-campy stretch jumpsuit styles...the multicolored sequins...and those fabulous feathers! In addition, I would be remiss to not mention Paul's UBER PLUNGING neckline #WOW9.85
They were very reminiscent of the "Rocketman" costumes from Costume Designer Julian Day (above, from the FIDM Museum Exhibition)
Free Dance to Long and Winding Road by Paul McCartney, arranged by Govardo: For their Free Dance, it was nice that they went elegant and chic...the complete opposite of their Rhythm Dance "Elton John" camp. I loved the one-shoulder gathered and sequined design featuring a wrap skirt on Piper...and Paul looked just as smashing in his matching-color look. I was very impressed with the soft sexiness of his top especially and that asymmetrical neckline. They belonged together beautifully in an elegant and high fashion manner.9.80

ICE STYLE.....Skate Canada 2021 Figure Skating Costumes: LADIES!

 Skate Canada Ladies: (L to R) Karen Chen of USA, Elisaveta Tuktamysheva of Russia, Mai Mihara of Japan, and Wakaba Higuchi of Japan--Skate Canada International 2021, Vancouver Canada

This past weekend was SKATE CANADA INTERNATIONAL 2021 , the second international competition event of the 2021-2022 ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating...which means it's time for...FIGURE SKATING COSTUMES! In my last posts here in my BLOG, I discussed the costumes from Skate America 2021 so if you missed it, you can click HERE and HERE . For now, let's talk about THE LADIES:

Karen Chen USA Free Skate: Reprising her Free Program from last season to Butterfly Lovers (Violin Concerto) performed by Takako Nishizaki, Karen wore the same costume from last season as well. The design features a deep lavender color with beautiful flower appliques enveloping the torso and skirt. The bell-shaped sleeves and mini-fishtail hemline add shape interest yet keep an overall effect of sweet delicacy...like a fluttering butterfly enjoying the flowers around her.9.00

Alysa Liu USA Short Program: Alysa is all grown up now (since we last saw her!) but yet, it's so CUTE to see she's actually not (those braces!). For her Short Program, she skated to a decidedly semi-adult piece of music, Gypsy Dance (Don Quixote: Act II) by Ludwig Minkus. Her costume was bold, exciting, and certainly had a stage presence. I loved the strong red color and intricate blue sequin applique swirling through her upper torso. The design and details like the nude illusion and gold "necklace" were great as well. Last but not least, the "gypsy"-like top knot with gold hairband gave her a fun "I Dream of Jeannie" look.9.05
Haein Lee Korea Short Program: Skating her Short Program to Ave Maria by Franz Schubert, performed by Helen Fischer, Haein Lee wore this beautiful white costume reminiscent of a top ballerina. The design had gorgeous mini sequins placed throughout the torso, giving an elongated effect and highlighting that area. Bigger jewel stones framed the neckline for a definite Haute Couture-level effect on this figure skating costume. Slight unobtrusive ruffles gave additional interest to the sleeves.9.05

Free Skate to Homage to Korea by Ji Pyeong Kwon: Naturally when skating to music titled "Homage to Korea", it makes sense to wear the figure skating version of a Hanbok. And this is basically what we see here on Haein. This design features some of those traditional Hanbok details such as the wrap-around neckline, the fluttery sleeves, the "powdery" colors, and yes, some requisite flower and sequin appliques. It was pretty and a nice costume partner to the music.9.00
Alena Kostornaia Russia Short Program: Take a look at that razzle-dazzle costume above. Now, don't be surprised when I tell you she skated to....(wait for it!)...New York, New York (Theme) performed by Carey Mulligan, Liz Caplan/New York, New York performed by Liza Minelli. I loved it! All the right details were there: The evening black, the bugle-beaded fringe, the silver crystals looking like the sky in NYC on a perfect night...check, check and check! All of this and somehow, it was elegant and not campy. She looked sassy and ready to start high-kicking it on a Broadway stage.9.25

Kamila Valieva Russia Short Program: The newly-minted Russian skating phenom, Kamila Valieva, skated her Short Program to In Memoriam by Kirill Richter wearing this costume above. The reddish/peach-colored design was modern yet had style nods to 1920's/1930's Grecian Goddess Madame Gres. It featured a watercolor/ombre dyed effect with a meticulously draped and gathered design, with crystals strewn throughout and braid-like Empire-line trim.9.15

Free Skate to Bolero by Maurice Ravel: Skating to Ravel's iconic Bolero, Valieva wore this black and red costume above. The design featured see-through black sleeves and a top section with red color accents. Under the main costume/dress, she added matching see-through black tights to give a look of a semi-jumpsuit. Details such as sequined criss-cross "snake"-like trim, a peek-a-boo torso, and fiery red gloves definitely gave a mood of dangerous seductress which I guess was the point, especially skating to this music. On the other hand, the costume was still a bit "Cirque du Soleil" acrobat-ish for my taste.8.99
Elizaveta Tuktamysheva Russia Short Program: Skating to Oblivion (J'oublie) by Astor Piazzolla, performed by Misia, a tango-inspired chanson, Elizaveta "The Empress", wore this deep red-and-orange hued costume featured a one-shoulder-like design (the other shoulder was a nude illusion), strappy details, asymmetrical hem, and crystal embellishment. She accessorized it with fluttery cuffs, one glove (?), choker, and red lipstick (of course!). She looked every bit "The Empress"; commanding, strong, and sexy.9.15

Free Skate to Arabia by Hanine El Alam and My Love...Music by Artem Uzunov: Elizaveta's costume certainly had "Near East/Middle East"-like details that paralleled the music she skated to. The costume featured a gathered bust, a "flippy" skirt, ombre-dyed teal/navy colorations, and sequined applique. The look was very "Figure Skater Scheherazade". I liked it for the most part but...I just thought the skin color of the nude illusion could have been slightly lighter and done better so it wasn't so obvious - the scooped neckline was distracting. BTW: What is it with Elizaveta and the one glove??8.75
Mana Kawabe Japan Short Program: Skating her Short Program to Shadow 5 by Max Richter and Winter 1 by Max Richter, Antonio Vivaldi wearing this ivory sequined costume. The design was very "Snow Queen" with the white color, scroll-like cut-outs, and silver crystals. Even though it was rather traditional in the world of figure skating costumes, it still had some extra design aspects with the asymmetrical pointed hem and illusion panels throughout the torso, creating interest all around her.9.00

Free Skate to Miracle by Sarah Brightman, Yoshiki, Miracle (Sarah's Version feat. Yoshiki) by Sarah Brightman, Yoshiki: For her Free Skate, she wore this purple-based costume with nude illusion neckline, upper sleeves, sides, and front. The design was ombre-shaded from dark to light and featured many crystals - in varying sizes - throughout. I thought the crystal work was fantastic but the overall design was just OK.8.75

Wakaba Higuchi Japan Short Program: Skating to Your Song by Ellie Goulding, Elton John, Wakaba wore this beautiful one-shoulder-like costume. The design had an almost tie-dye look to the base, which then was enhanced with silver sequin applique and big aquamarine stones. Nude illusion accented the neckline and sides as well. I thought this was a pretty costume, delicate in its mood but sparkly enough to also be joyous and Icicle Princess-like.8.99

Free Skate to Spirit (from "The  Lion King") by  Beyonce, Grasslands Chant (from "The  Lion King"), Stampede (from "The  Lion King") by Hans Zimmer, Remember (from "The  Lion King") by Hans Zimmer: This look above was by far one of my TOP FAVORITES from the Ladies at Skate Canada International 2021. I loved EVERYTHING about it: It was paying definite homage to "The Lion King" - with Wakaba being her own LION QUEEN! I loved the hues of orange, golds, yellows, fir reds...The feather-and-sequin trim was outstanding and to top it all off: That fabulous crown! Bravo Wakaba.9.80

Mai Mihara Japan Short Program: Mai skated her Short Program to I Dreamed A Dream (from Les Miserables) by Claude-Michel Schönberg wearing this ethereal lilac-colored costume/dress. The design had a Couture Dishevelled look which I appreciated, reminding me of those early 90's Galliano bias-cut creations. The silver jeweled crystals added a sense that this might have been owned by someone who had wealth...but lost it. In addition, the lovely color and jagged hem made it red carpet modern...for a 21st Les Miserables Heroine.9.50
Free Skate to Fairy of the Forest by Yuko Toyoda and Galaxy (piano version) by Yuko Toyoda: Looking like a sweet nymph fairy in this costume seems appropriate enough...especially if you are skating to music titled "Fairy of the Forest". The costume had aquamarine washed colors, nude illusion sleeves, and neckline, and gold metallic and silver crystal accents. The embellishment almost gave a cage-like effect in her upper torso which I liked. This was a sweet and lovely costume for Mai.9.00 

ICE STYLE.....Skate America 2021 Costumes: PAIRS and ICE DANCE!

Billie Eilish Meets Janet Jackson: (L to R)  USA Ice Dance pairs Madison Chock and Evan Bates skating to Billie Eilish, and Madison Hubbell and Zachary Donohue skating to a Janet Jackson medley--Skate America 2021, Las Vegas NV
Continuing with my ICE STYLE figure skating costumes recap of this past weekend's Skate America 2021 competition held in the Orleans Arena in Las Vegas...in my last post HERE , I talked about the LADIES and MEN'S costumes, so now it is time to discuss the PAIRS and ICE DANCE costumes of this 2021-2022 season. 
Let's begin with the PAIRS:

Pairs Style: (Clockwise L to R) Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara of Japan, Evgenia Tarasova and Vladimir Morozov of Russia and Jessica Calalang and Brian Johnson of USA-Skate America 2021 Las Vegas NV
Photo by Robin Ritoss
Alexa Knierim and Brandon Frazier of USA Short Program: Skating to House of The Rising Sun by Heavy Young Heathens, from the 2014 film "Revenge of the Green Dragons", a film about Chinese American gangs. I would venture to guess that perhaps the deep red color in Alexa's sparkly costume may reference a traditional red cheongsam in Chinese culture, but besides that, the nods to the film and what it is about, end there. I liked her look and the spaced-out multi-sized silver sequins as well as the uneven illusion panel down the front. Brandon was the quintessential non-costumed Pairs partner in basic black. At least, he gave you a somewhat plunging v-neck!  8.25

Jessica Calalang and Brian Johnson USA Short Program: For their Short Program to Come Together by The Beatles performed by Gary Clark Jr. and Junkie XL, Calalang and Johnson were perfectly dressed for the Las Vegas Rock & Roll ICE stage! Jessica's black costume featured a curved high neckline highlighted by the sequined sweetheart-shaped bust top plus a fishtail skirt hem. I loved that for Brian's costume, they didn't just go with basic; at least they upped the shirt ante by giving him one with contrasting sheer/solid paneling and sequined trim around the collar and front placket. Both looks were great for the music.9.10
Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara Japan Free Skate: Skating to Woman by Shawn Phillips, this Japanese pairs team wore the costumes above. While Riku looked pretty and more like a "Junior Figure Skater" in her costume of illusion, crystals, and blue-black/nude ombre shading... Ryuichi was more directional and fashion-forward in his look. I really liked his costume more than hers. I loved the play with texture using faux leather and lightly sequined stretch Ponte knit, as well as asymmetrical fishtail hemming on the shirt. She was cute, he was dark, mysterious, and stylish.8.99

Aleksandra Boikova and Dmitrii Kozlovskii of Russia Short Program: Skating to the classic Swan Lake by Petr I. Tchaikovski, it's difficult to go "off-script" costume-wise when it comes to Swan Lake, so naturally, Boikova and Kozlovskii vibed their best "Black Swan" couture for this. I liked the "evil" look of her costume which reminded me more of "Maleficent" especially with the horn-like front detailing and the broken glass-like sequined effect. Her eye makeup was, in addition, very complimentary to her look. Not forgetting about Dmitrii, his costume was outstanding in its top detail and silver crystal wing-like embellishments; he was sexy and oh-so-threatening. 9.50
Evgenia Tarasova and Vladimir Morozov Russia Short Program: Skating to Metamorphosis Two by Philip Glass, Experience by Ludovico Einaudi, Tarasova and Morozov wore these costumes above. There was a "Modern Dance" sensuality about these costumes...the delicate draping, side-gathering, asymmetrical styling, sparse crystal work, and ombre shading. I liked all of these details on the costumes but it almost seemed as if each belonged to another pair; I wished either her costume's color-matched his or the other way around. Even though the details were similar, they were mismatched. That said, they were still pretty and fashion-forward.8.99

Free Skate to Lighthouse by Patrick Watson: This was a better example of how both his and her costumes go together seamlessly. The grays match as well as the crystal display on the tops...there's a symbiotic relationship between the clothing, the details, and both the skaters. 9.35

ICE DANCE------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Madison Chock and Evan Bates Rhythm Dance: Skating their Rhythm Dance to Myboi by Billie Eilish, Therefore I am by Billie Eilish, Bad Guy by Billie Eilish, Chock and Bates looked fresh, modern, and in tune with the sensuous yet somewhat spooky Billie Eilish melody. Naturally, I loved the pop of "highlighter" green color on Madison Chock in her fishtail hemmed sequined dress. While I wasn't that much of a fan of the UBER pointed "witchy" neckline...I did like her fabulous gloves (those nails!). In addition, her eye makeup was EVERYTHING! Not to be left out, Evan's costume was pretty cool on its own: From the sleek top and pants, the neon green bias binding to the faux leather chest harness...he looked like he was ready to NOT play nice. 9.40 
Free Dance to Contact by Daft Punk, Touch by Daft Punk, Within by Daft Punk, Touch by Daft Punk: Skating to a Daft Punk medley, the American team wore these lavender/purple-based looks. These costumes blended a "Mood Board" of Futuristic Space Explorer-Meets-Extraterrestrial which went pretty well with Daft Punk's French Electro-House Techno vibe. I imagined that Evan--in his deep purple fashion space suit--was this astronaut from 2221 who happened to land on a planet where he fell in love with Madison's sexy lizard-like stretch chiffon-and-sequined creature with a cascade ruffle spine. I want to go to that planet ASAP!9.75 
Madison Hubbell and Zachary Donohue USA Rhythm Dance: Hubbell and Donohue skated their Rhythm Dance to Nasty by Janet Jackson, Rope Burn by Janet Jackson, Rhythm Nation Janet Jackson. Their costumes were very Jacket Jackson Rhythm Nation Retro for sure...almost to a fault. While as a kid of that era (and who LOVED Miss Jackson!), I almost thought it was too on-the-nose and almost went "Halloween Costume-y". But, the (fashion) nostalgic part of me still appreciated those silver epaulets and late 80's Military Hip Hop accouterments. 8.99
Free Dance to Drowning by Anne Sila: These were beautiful, classic figure skating costume looks from this amazing ice dance couple. I loved her romantic lilac-colored sequined dress...the asymmetrical neckline, the paneled chiffon skirt...it looked effortless on her as if it was a second skin.  In addition, I thought Zach looked like a Figure Skating prince...in his deep plum ensemble of skin-tight pants and velvety top. The color shading and the crystal designs were gorgeous and I also loved the asymmetrical neckline. I know the music wasn't to Romeo and Juliet but boy oh boy, they sure looked like a modern interpretation of that classic love story. 9.65

ICE STYLE.....Skate America 2021 Costumes: LADIES and MEN!

COSTUME SPARKLE: Costumes from skaters (L to R) Kaori Sakamoto of Japan, Alexandra Trusova of Russia, Shoma Uno of Japan, and Vincent Zhou of USA--Skate America 2021 Las Vegas, NV USA

This past weekend was the first of the ISU 2021-2022 Grand Prix of Figure Skating competition series, the 2021 Guaranteed Rate Skate America. Held in Las Vegas, Nevada at the Orleans Arena, it was time to see international skaters and their Olympics season programs, as well as their costumes! Let's take a look at some of them, starting with the WOMEN:
Daria Usacheva Russia Short Program: Skating to Never Enough (from "The Greatest Showman") performed by Loren Allred, Usacheva wore this pretty light peach-colored costume. The design featured a lightly draped cowl neckline, a side-gathered handkerchief-hem skirt, and a beautiful display of sequin embellishment. I also liked the light ombre shading and hem crystal detail.9.00

Free Skate to Nessun Dorma (from "Turandot") by Giacomo Puccini: This was another delicate, very pretty costume from the Russian skater, this time for her Free Skate to the iconic Turandot aria. The lilac background played off the strong violet sequin-and-ombre shaded embellishment. I appreciated the very subtle Asian hand-painting motif as well as a feather here and there. I also loved her strong eye makeup that perfectly matched the colors of the costume.9.25
Alexandra Trusova Russia Short Program: Trusova skated her Short Program to Benediction And Dream (from "Frida" soundtrack) by Elliot Goldenthal, performed by Lila Downs, Solo tu (from Frida soundtrack) by Elliot Goldenthal, Alcoba Azul (from Frida soundtrack) by Elliot Goldenthal. Her costume was this red-and-deep blue design that was an obvious nod to the "Frida" film. The colors were strong, fiery and the off-the-shoulder detail created a nice look on Trusova. Her red-dyed hair was, in addition, complementary to the entire look.8.50
Free Skate to Call Me Cruella (from "Cruella" soundtrack) by Florence + The Machine, The True Story of Cruella's Birth (from "Cruella" soundtrack) by Nicholas Britell, I Wanna Be Your Dog (from "Cruella" soundtrack) by John McCrea: I'm a big fan of "Cruella" and especially the movie's costumes so I was excited to see this costume. From the moment one saw it, you KNEW it was "Cruella"; the black-and-white...the blood-like red accents....the silver sequin sparkles...it all reflected the character, film, and music, but in a way that enhanced the presentation. 
I liked how they changed the costume from the original design inspiration to suit figure skating. I think it was a wise choice to alter the color scheme from nude to black and red. The black and red colors instantly tell you that this is Cruella! I also like that they kept the newspaper draped detail at the waist and eliminated the upper portion. While I LOVE a dramatic neckline, this certainly would not have assisted Trusova in completing her difficult jumps!

But the BEST PART was wonderfully hidden within the costume:
Trusova's dogs' names were sewn onto her costume! Yes, darlings, those are her dogs' names framed in crystals surrounding her torso. LOVE.9.75

You Young Korea Short Program: Korea's You Young skated her Short Program to Whirling Winds (The Leftovers soundtrack) by Ludovico Einaudi. While the soundtrack/music is from a supernatural mystery HBO drama, there was nothing supernatural or mysterious about this very pretty and elegant costume. She looked like an imaginary night sky fairy in this deep violet design, featuring an asymmetrical hem, ruffled sleeve, and quite stunning sequin work.9.35
Amber Glenn USA Short Program: Skating to Circles by Greta Svabo Bech, arranged by Misha Ge, Experience by Ludovico Einaudi, arranged by Misha Ge, Glenn wore this burgundy-hued costume featuring nude illusion sides, hundreds of crystals, and very pretty ombre-dyed arms. The color and halter neck-like silhouette worked well for her and this skate.9.00
Photo by: Robin Ritoss
Starr Andrews USA Short Program: Andrews skated to At Last by Mack Gordon, Harry Warren, performed by Starr Andrews. First off, yes, you read correctly: Starr sings the music in her Short Program. Now, let's discuss her costume. I liked this nude and blue plunging neckline costume designed by Lisa McKinnon. It featured an asymmetrical hem, STUNNING sequin details throughout, and sky blue ombre dyeing focusing on her midriff. The costume reminded me of a figure skating version of a Miss Universe-style gown, especially all those on-trend "nude" ones that are very popular as of late.9.00
Free Skate to Bigger by Beyonce, I Was Here by Beyonce: Of the two costumes Starr wears for her routines, this Free Skate one is my favorite (also designed by Lisa McKinnon). I love a draped one-shoulder "Grecian Goddess" moment and this is what Starr was vibing, whether she knew it or not...or more like "Beyonce Grecian Goddess" perhaps! The design was fabulous and the sequin details were expensive-looking. I also loved the nude illusion panels in the torso and sleeve area. Besides the ivory color looking great on her, I ESPECIALLY appreciated the RIGHT COLOR of nude illusion that matched Andrews' gorgeous skin color. Well done!9.75
Satoko Miyahara Japan Short Program: Miyahara skated her Short Program to Song for the Little Sparrow by Charles Dumont & Michel Vaucaire, arranged by Abel Korzeniowski wearing this very pretty costume. The design, done in lavender featured a draped strap neckline and a very embellished upper torso. While the look may not have been directional or fashion-forward, it was elegant and expensive-looking.8.99
Kaori Sakamoto Japan Short Program: Season after season, it is becoming evident that Kaori likes to embrace the "Fashionista" in her when it comes to her costumes (LOVED the "Matrix" one from the last couple of seasons!) This season, she's back, starting with the look for her Short Program to Now We Are Free (from "Gladiator") by Lisa Gerrard, Hans Zimmer arranged by Cedric Tour. This costume features multiple shades of gray and had elements of "Gladiator"-esque details with the arm banding and draping. I loved the directional style and oversized jewel embellishment on the side and shoulder. As a total package, it was modern, chic, and fashion-forward.9.55
Free Skate to No More Fight Left In Me by Imany, Armand Amar, Tris by Ellie Goulding, Junkie XL: For her Free Skate, Sakamoto wore this royal blue costume that made a strong color impression, especially against the white of the ice rink. Just as in the Short Program costume, the side jeweled sequin detail was utilized here to a nice effect, providing a nucleus to the "jutting out"-like stripes enveloping the design. I personally didn't think it was necessary to add the little crystals in the bustline especially since there was already so much else happening, but overall, I liked this costume.8.99
MEN-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Jimmy Ma USA Short Program: Skating to Black Swan (based on Swan Lake by Petr I. Tchaikovski), Jimmy Ma, wore this black-and-white top and shirt, with overt "Black Swan"-like style references. The outfit included skin-tight black pants and a black-and-white stretch top with feather-like crystal trim detail. I liked the feather/sequin work and also appreciated the "washed" effect of the black on the shirt, adding a layer of texture to the costume.Score: 8.60
Nathan Chen USA Short Program: Not really known for his costumes, Nathan continued his non-costume consistency for this season, starting here with his Short Program look to Eternity by Benjamin Clementine. Nathan wore black pants with a long sleeve gray-ish top that featured a camo-like hand-painted effect on it. Not much else I could say about this. It was blah.7.00
Free Skate to Selection of Music by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: For Nathan, this was a slight improvement, in the costume space. Once again he wore the black pants but this time, he changed his shirt to this stretch knit white, violet, and black ombre dyed one. I liked the color combinations and the effect created by the dyeing. The black at the lower part of the shirt provided sleek continuity blending in with the pants. An improvement. Baby steps.7.99
Vincent Zhou USA Short Program: For his Short Program to Vincent (Starry Starry Night) by Don McLean, Josh Groban, Zhou not only reprised last season's music but also the same costume; I was a fan then and still am now. I love the delicate draping on the jersey knit top, the shading as well as the vertically placed crystals. It's a beautiful costume for the beautiful music.9.75
Free Skate to Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (soundtrack) by Tan Dun, Rising Sun by Kiyoshi Yoshida: Reprising is a theme for Zhou, in music and costumes. Here for his Free Skate, he brought back his "Crouching Tiger. Hidden Dragon" music/program he skated to back in the 2018-2019 season. He also wore the same costume. Well,  I am guessing it's not exactly the same since from the looks of it, he has grown "a little" since 3-4 years ago! The costume is great with its kimono-like/wrap jacket styling, red bias sleeve hem trim, black belt, Mandarin-like collar, and great sequin work...9.25
Teenager Vincent: Here he is at the 2019 Four Continents Championships in the same (or XXS version) of the costume!
Shoma Uno Japan Short Program: Shoma Uno skated his Short Program to Oboe Concerto by A. Marcello, Oboe Concerto (Concerto In C Minor For Cello) by A. Vivaldi. This was BY FAR, my FAVORITE Men's costume! I literally gasped, when I saw it--it was beautiful in its high-end style and silhouette...that side cowl drape was BEYOND...and the crystals on the top were superb! The deep midnight blue color whispered "Evening Elegance". It was blurring the lines between masculine and feminine and really showing people how to do costumes on a higher fashion level. I bow down to Shoma and especially Mathieu Caron , the designer, and creator of this Haute costume.9.99
Free Skate to Bolero (Boléro IV New Breath) by Maurice Ravel, performed by Tomotaka Okamoto: Caron also created this gorgeous costume worn by Uno for his Free Skate to Ravel's "Bolero". This black and gold ensemble was giving me Toreador Couture vibes with its cropped bolero vest, gold side trim crystal detail, and super sleek lines. It was modern, stylish and yet, still had enough costume flair.9.75
**UP NEXT: Skate America 2021 PAIRS and ICE DANCE COSTUMES!

NIKOLAKI.....Behind The Scenes: KTLA Academy Awards 2021 Countdown To Gold Red Carpet Show

Glam Group--Nick Verreos and David Paul, Designers of NIKOLAKI with models (L to R) Jayden Robinson, Amanda Fields Bennett, Selena Sofia, and Ena Chen, wearing NIKOLAKI gowns for the KTLA "Countdown to Gold"| Academy Awards 2021 Red Carpet Pre-Show Special--KTLA Hollywood
The 2021 Academy Awards occurred this past April and I was honored to have been asked to do a fabulous Red Carpet Fashion Presentation showcasing our NIKOLAKI gowns to talk about the possible trends we might see on the Academy Awards Red Carpet. As a fashion designer and Co-Chairperson of the FIDM Fashion Design Department, I was happy to have been invited back to do LIVE segments for KTLA ! Here is my Behind-the-Scenes Photo Blog showing how the day went down--from prepping, to filming, to the GOWNS...Enjoy!  It Takes A *Fashion* Village--Nick Verreos, David Paul, and Rachel Padilla of FIDM P.R. backstage helping the set-up for our NIKOLAKI Red Carpet Oscars Presentation, KTLA "Countdown to Gold" Academy Awards 2021 Red Carpet Pre-Show Special--KTLA Hollywood
Prepping--The accessories and the gowns are ready...for the "close-up"--KTLA "Countdown to Gold" Academy Awards 2021 Red Carpet Pre-Show Special--KTLA Hollywood
Almost Ready to Go Live!--KTLA "Countdown to Gold" Academy Awards 2021 Red Carpet Pre-Show Special--KTLA Hollywood
Red Carpet Live--Nick Verreos and KTLA's Megan Henderson on "set" of the KTLA "Countdown to Gold" Academy Awards 2021 Red Carpet Pre-Show Special--KTLA Hollywood
FIDM Fashion Design Chairperson--Nick Verreos on KTLA "Countdown to Gold" Academy Awards 2021 Red Carpet Pre-Show Special--KTLA Hollywood
And now...time for the GOWNS!!! Ready, Set, Go! Gown Show Part 1--Nick Verreos with models in NIKOLAKI gowns for the KTLA "Countdown to Gold" Academy Awards 2021 Red Carpet Pre-Show Special--KTLA Hollywood
Draped Queen--Model Ena Chen in NIKOLAKI mini polka-dot silk satin one-shoulder ballgown--KTLA "Countdown to Gold" Academy Awards 2021 Red Carpet Pre-Show Special--KTLA Hollywood
Shimmery--Model Amanda Fields Bennett in NIKOLAKI silk chiffon sequined hi-lo gown--KTLA "Countdown to Gold" Academy Awards 2021 Red Carpet Pre-Show Special--KTLA Hollywood
Red Stunner--Model Selena Sofia in NIKOLAKI red silk zibeline strapless gown--KTLA "Countdown to Gold" Academy Awards 2021 Red Carpet Pre-Show Special--KTLA Hollywood
Part Two of NIKOLAKI gowns Red Carpet TV Fashion Segment--Behind-the-Scenes: Waiting "backstage"--Nick Verreos with models (L to R) Jayden Robinson, Amanda Fields Bennett, Selena Sofia, and Ena Chen, wearing NIKOLAKI gowns--KTLA "Countdown to Gold" Academy Awards 2021 Red Carpet Pre-Show Special--KTLA Hollywood
Pretty in Pink--Model Jayden Robinson in NIKOLAKI bubblegum pink colored crepe back silk satin cowl-neck gown--KTLA "Countdown to Gold" Academy Awards 2021 Red Carpet Pre-Show Special--KTLA Hollywood
Empire Gown--Model Amanda Fields Bennett in NIKOLAKI golden-colored Empire-cut silk chiffon gown with sequined trim--KTLA "Countdown to Gold" Academy Awards 2021 Red Carpet Pre-Show Special--KTLA Hollywood
Liquid Sequins--Model Selena Sodia in NIKOLAKI grape colored silk sequined side-draped column gown--KTLA "Countdown to Gold" Academy Awards 2021 Red Carpet Pre-Show Special--KTLA Hollywood
Golden Open Back--Model Ena Chen in NIKOLAKI gold lame backless gown with sequined strap detail--KTLA "Countdown to Gold" Academy Awards 2021 Red Carpet Pre-Show Special--KTLA Hollywood
My KTLA "Prom Date"--Nick Verreos and KTLA Executive Producer Kimberly Cornell--KTLA "Countdown to Gold" Academy Awards 2021 Red Carpet Pre-Show Special--KTLA Hollywood
That's a Wrap!--Nick Verreos and David Paul with models in their NIKOLAKI gowns--KTLA "Countdown to Gold" Academy Awards 2021 Red Carpet Pre-Show Special--KTLA Hollywood

SASHES AND TIARAS.....Miss Universe 2020 NATIONAL COSTUMES: A SNEAK PEAK!

Universal Preview--Contestants for Miss Universe 2020 in their national costumes (Top Photo: L to R) Miss Universe Cambodia, Miss Universe Indonesia, Miss Universe El Salvador, Miss Universe Puerto Ric o;  (Lower Photo: L to R) Miss Universe Dominican Republic, Miss Universe Malaysia, Miss Universe Albania, Miss Universe Mexico
The 69th annual Miss Universe competition is finally happening--after being postponed due to COVID-19--next month at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida. Contestants from all over the world will be arriving, quarantining, and getting ready for the final show on May 16th. Many have been posting photos of their national costumes in the lead-up for the pageant. Here is a SNEAK PEEK PREVIEW of some of the Miss Universe contestant's National Costumes...See if you already have a favorite:

AFRICA & MIDDLE EAST:

Miss Universe South Africa Natasha Joubert--The description of Natasha's costume says that "She will be carrying the children of South Africa with her when she walks onto the international stage in her national costume, as the fabric wings of her unique gown have been printed with drawings made by young children from Diepsloot and Randburg. The artwork tells the story of pre-school children’s very personal experiences of lockdown and how the Covid-19 pandemic has disrupted their young lives". Natasha's national costume was created by  Gert-Johan Coetzee .
Miss Universe Israel Tehila Levi--Designed by Shai Shalom , Miss Universe Israel's dress is made of materials very well known to everyone around the world this past year: FACE MASKS! In fact, 300 hand-painted face masks were used to create this one-of-kind dress, to represent the national costume of Israel.

EUROPE:Miss Universe Albania Paula Mehmetukaj--Miss Universe Albania's national costume is entitled "Queen of Earth and Skies" and was designed by Enada At'Nikolla. She describes the costumes as such: "Red like the blood that runs through the veins, embroidered with red crystal stones from our underground treasures, this dress is the flag and I am the eagle that spreads her wings and flies as high as possible with all the Albanian pride to represent my country and show the world that just like eagles, we soar high and break all the barriers and limits!". 

Miss Universe Czech Republic Klara Vavruskova--The Czech national costume worn by Miss Universe Czech Republic is a reflection of Czech folklore across many of the country's regions. The pleat detail seen on the sleeves is typical of traditional Czech costumes as well as the blue print on the outfit. This print comes from a small village in the Czech republic, Strážnice.
Miss Universe Italy Viviana Vizzini--Designed by Stefano Nicolao, the costume embodies Italy's hope and courage in its fight against Covid-19. Vivianna says (about the national costume) that "Without having lost the desire to fight...with the hope to soon resume flying".

Miss Universe Netherlands Denise Speelman--According to Miss Universe Netherlands, the National Costume she will be wearing represents her country's colorful open-mindedness, where the foundation is freedom. The design gathers lots of Dutch symbols such as the tulips, the iconic Delft blue pottery, as well as cows, foods, the national flag, the Dutch houses...all hand-painted on Dutch silk. The costume was designed by Miss Pearl Couture .
Miss Universe Norway Sunniva Frigstad--According to Sunniva, the costume she will wear will represent Norway to be like "a free-roaming reindeer when it goes under the northern lights in sparkling snow!" The clothes were done by Drommekjolen and the antlers were made by Va Teknikk As .

OCEANIA & ASIA:

Miss Universe Australia Maria Thattil--The national costume of Miss Universe Australia was designed by Nicola Yeung and was inspired by the Black Swan, a native Australian bird that is the emblem of Western Australia and a symbol of hope. According to the notes on this costume and the inspiration, the Black Swan is a symbol of the unexpected and overcoming the impossible. It symbolizes the beauty and wonder in being open to change. The designer, Nicola Yeung, said that she was attracted to the Black Swan for "its bold symmetrical features, the stark contrast between the black plumes, the richly colored red bills, and the panels of white that are visible when the bird is in flight...the body of black sequins on the bodice imitate glistening water...the wings are poised open, as though about to take flight."
Miss Universe Cambodia Sarita Reth--Siem Reap-based designer, Meak Koun, was chosen to showcase his design and costume for Sarita in the 69th Miss Universe Competition. This National Costume is called “Tep Rubroum” which represents Lord Harihara, the combination of two Supreme Lords from the Hindu Tradition: Lord Visnu and Lord Shiva which was one of the Khmer Empire’s Official Religions. This unique ensemble also represents Solidarity, Harmony, and Peace. The art style of this costume was originally conceptualized from the Sculptures and Bas-Relief of Khmer Ancient Temples.
Miss Universe Indonesia Ayu Maulida Putri--Miss Universe Indonesia's national costume is inspired by the Komodo dragon. Native to Indonesia’s Lesser Sunda Islands for millions of years, the Komodo dragon is often referred to as “the last link to the prehistoric dinosaurs”. This unique and very creative design, featuring gold, copper, and silver metallic details in the forms of scales, as well as a stunning headdress representing the Komodo dragon, is a collaboration between fashion designer Diana M Putri from Diana Couture and accessories designers Yuling Hoo and Silvy Prajogo of Le Ciel Design.
Miss Universe Korea Ha-Ri Park--The beautiful Miss Universe Korea showcased earlier this year--on her social media/Instagram--photos of herself in two different but equally stunning traditional Hanbok costumes. Wonder which one will she wear? Or will she show up with a third different one?
Miss Universe Laos Christina Lasasimma--This National Costume of Miss Universe Laos shows the beauty and rich culture of Laos. It depicts landmarks throughout Laos, a four-head god from the origin story of Lao New Year/Nang Sangkhan (the seven princess goddesses). The garment is from Luang Prabang, the northern region and former capital of Laos’ ancient kingdom, and includes a fabulous fashion addition in relation to the pandemic, a matching mask. The hand-made gold thread embroidery costume is over $12,000 and the 200-year-old 24K pure gold jewelry is from the Laung Phrabang city that is also a UNESCO world heritage. This costume is the outfit for former royal family members of the kingdom of Laos, going back to ancient times representing the rich culture and ancient art handicrafts of Laos. Her costume portrays the legend of how the Lao New Year started.
Miss Universe Malaysia Francisca Luhong James-- Entitled "Kampungku," Miss Universe Malaysia's costume will include an impressive 3D replica of a kampung house. Designed by Carven Ong , “Kampungku” is a celebration of traditional Malaysian architecture and promises a "double feast for the eyes", because she will essentially wear TWO national costumes at once...

She will first appear in a black and white kaftan ensemble with bicycle headgear against a matching kampung backdrop. Francisca’s dress features Sarawak ceremonial fabric as well as Orang Ulu and Malay batik motifs...
She then goes back into the traditional house and the structure rotates to reveal another different scene: The reverse side of the house boasts replica chickens and coconut trees as Francisca re-emerges with a vibrant halter gown. The orange design takes cues from a stunning sunset and is imbued with gold "kerawang" wooden beads that pay homage to Francisca’s Sarawakian heritage. Completing her look is a whimsical headpiece featuring a Borneo doll by Wesley Hilton. The entire outfit weighs almost 100 lbs and took 3 months to complete. To enable Francisca to swiftly change into Part 2 of her national dress, the "interior" of the house is a fitting room that includes a mirror. We will see how she pulls this off at the upcoming Miss Universe 2020 competition.

Miss Universe Vietnam Nguyen Tran Khanh Van--Designed by Khoa Lo, this national costume for Miss Universe Vietnam pays homage to the Vietnamese silk weaving that is deeply ingrained in the country's culture.  Inside the cocoon, the bustling silk weaving is visualized through the image of pure white silk rolls. This Ao Dai costume wants to show the beautiful traditional craftsmanship seen in Vietnam.

THE CARIBBEAN & NORTH AMERICA:

Miss Universe Belize Iris Salguero--Designed by  Roberto Pasos Dominguez and David Matus  the inspiration for this costume is a representation of Belizean history: The lighthouse, the story of Baron Bliss, and the tradition of flying kites on this special holiday honoring Belize's largest financial benefactor, Baron Bliss.
Miss Universe Dominican Republic Kimberly Jimenez--Kimberly Jiménez is in full bloom in her national costume designed by A xel Thomas . The province where Constanza is from in the Dominican Republic is known for its colorful flower plantations, which include the sunflower. The sunflower is appreciated not only for its beauty and durability but also for its medicinal healing uses and she is paying homage to it with her National Costume.
Miss Universe El Salvador Vanessa Velasquez--This gorgeous costume was inspired by Izote, El Salvador's national flower. According to the beauty, "This majestic flower is a symbol of pride that showcases the identity and richness of El Salvador’s people and its breathtaking landscapes. The flower’s versatility is reminiscent of our rooted inspiration, appreciation, and love for the emblem because of its ability to offset the planet’s carbon footprint. In addition, it has medicinal value and the stems are used to create beautiful textiles and nutritious dishes. It’s a reminder to our world and a call for action to protect the environment and to appreciate every blooming flower and plant on our planet."
Miss Universe Mexico Andrea Meza--Here is "Alebrije", the National Costume for Miss Universe Mexico. The alebrije is a Mexican handicraft of a surreal stylethat can be made of cardboard, paper, or wood. Different techniques are used forits elaboration; it can have the shapesof creatures or imaginary fantastic beings with the peculiarcharacteristic of having picturesque and striking colors. The jumpsuit design begins with a nude base, that is then hand-embroidered, using crystals of different sizes and colors. The "Face" portion of the costume is made in Oaxacan paper technique, along with thousandsof crystals. Exotic and colorfulfeathers are included in the costume, complementing the majestic wings. The design took a month to create and was designed by  Avelino Roque Osorio .
Miss Universe Nicaragua Ana Marcelo--Entitled,  “La Gritería en Leon”, this costume is described as "the living representation of the joy and excitement that is experienced every year when 'La Gritería' arrives, considered the most characteristic popular festival of Nicaraguan. The suit is made with handicrafts made by local Nicaraguan artisans, including whistles, noisemakers, and hats as one can see throughout the wings and sequined leg pieces.
Miss Universe Panama Carmen Jaramillo--According to Miss Universe Panama, more than 500 years of legend, culture, and tradition go into the unique National Costume. In one single costume, it tells the story of the founding of Panama City in 1519, European settlement, Spaniards, Pirates, and much more, showcasing how it has been uniquely located as a connection between North and South America as well as the importance of the oceans and seas to the isthmus of Panama.
Miss Universe Puerto Rico Estefania Soto Torres--Designed by Joshuan Aponte, the costume pays homage to Puerto Rican astrologer Walter Mercado. Walter Mercado was a Puerto Rican actor, dancer, and writer whose astrological character made him an icon of Hispanic popular culture. His existence inspired millions of people worldwide and his lesson on the love of diversity...

Estefania also talked about her costume as she said, “With the challenges that humanity has faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, Walter Mercado's message of encouragement and great universal impact is perfect for the Miss Universe stage. Walter pioneered freedom and universal acceptance, and in this costume, we embrace his unique sense of style and honor his message of timeless character. A message that managed to transcend generations, identities, and cultures: union, heart, and much, much love.”

SOUTH AMERICA: Miss Universe Bolivia Lenka Nemer--Designed by Qhapaq Nan Art , this costume, entitled "The Force of The Andes", represents the Waca Waca dance in Bolivia. The waca lechera is a dance typical of Bolivia that takes around 40 colorful and woven skirts embroidered artisanally. Wearing a blouse with more than 10,000 beads and sequins embroidered entirely by hand. The hat is embroidered Swarovski crystals and gold threads with the shape of a bull. Last but not least, there are many colored feathers representing indigenous birds in the country.
Miss Universe Brazil Julia Gama--Designed by Atelier Michelly X , this creation was inspired by the Brazilian cotton production. In the last few year's Brazil has ranked in the top 5 of the world's cotton producers. In Brazil, the product is dubbed "white gold".
Miss Universe Ecuador Leyla Espinoza Calveche--Miss Universe Ecuador's national costume, designed by Andrea Segarra, is inspired by Inti Raymi, also known as the Andean feast of the Sun. The Inti Raymi'rata is a traditional religious ceremony of the Inca Empire in honor of the god Inti, the most venerated deity in Inca religion. The design was chosen in February 2020 as the Best National Costume during the Miss Ecuador 2020 national costume competition.
Click below for Video Montage of some of the Miss Universe 2020 National Costumes-Part1:
Click below for Part Two: