Miss Nigeria, Maristella Okpala, has clinched the Best National Costume Award at the 2021 Miss Universe grand finale, which took place in Eilat, Israel on Sunday, December 12, 2021.
The 28-year-old pageant disclosed this via her Instagram page as she also revealed that the costume was designed by Filipino fashion student, Kenny Gasper.
According to her, the costume was inspired by the famous traditional masquerade of Nigeria’s Mmwana tribe, the elaborate ensemble includes a beaded headdress and an intricate three-foot tribal mask with a colourful ancient back cape, patterns and embellishments.
Her post read in part:
“They portray the African dashiki which offers a visual appeal and forms meant to invoke the ancestral spirits.”
“The creation was meant to celebrate the rich Nigerian cultural heritage, paying a closer attention to the strength women possess.”
She added that: “It is inspired by a famous traditional masquerade of the southeastern tribe of Nigeria called ‘Mmanwa’. It is made of African Beads, stones, crafts.
“I picked this particular costume because I see a self-reflection of my cause in this ‘Mmwanwa’ who protects children and women against any form of abuse.
“Finally, this costume pays attention to the strong will of women in attaining whatever height they want to attain, no matter the challenges faced while reaching their desired goals.”
After Okpala was named Best in National Costume, Gasper expressed his gratitude in a Facebook post.
“Thank you Lord. Hindi pa rin ako makapaniwala talaga. Umiiyak ako kanina habang kayakap si mama (I still can’t believe it. I was crying earlier while hugging my mom),” he wrote.
Okpala’s costume marks the second creation by Gasper of a National Costume ensemble for a Miss Universe candidate.
During the 69th Miss Universe edition in May, Gasper also made the “Lioness” ensemble worn by Miss Universe Cameroon 2020 Kossinda Angeles.
India’s Harnaaz Sandhu won the crown of Miss Universe.
