Miss Universe Australia 2020 Maria Thattil National Costume

Model: Maria Thattil

Photographer: Ben Adams

Designer: Nicola Yeung

Engineer: Stuart Bryce of Dugite Designs

Laser Cutter: Grant at Action Laser Cutting

Hair: Sepideh Baghaei

Loud and proud, sassy and stunning, this piece was made to reflect its wearer, Perth Comedian and Face of Western Australia 2019 – Famous Sharron. With comfort as a must, this costume is made from stretch sequin and lined with shimmer jersey, creating the perfect fit while providing smoothening and firm support. It sports front and back panels that flatter Sharron’s silhouette. Tiered layers embellish the hem of this fit-and-flare style dress. The overall look is perfected with an eye-catching multi-coloured textured wrap that reverses onto a sequin side.

Deceptively simple, this bespoke Wedding Dress features three different types of French Chantilly cotton laces, carefully cut and arranged into flattering panels and edged with satin binding. Hand cut scalloped lace highlights the waistline and frosts hem. The skirt is partially sheer with panelled tiers that create a modern but ethereal effect. Silk satin lines the dress for comfort and breathability. The v-neckline is finished off with double cross back adjustable straps. A trail of silk covered buttons skims the back, hiding the easy access invisible zip. Bust cups are built in with a removable padded option.

This costume was made for Miss Universe Australia Francesca Hung and was worn at the 2018 International Finals. It was inspired by the rich myriad of unique native Flora that adorns the Australian Landscape. The delicate flowers that embellish the headpiece and detail the dress reflect the iconic Australian National Flower: the Golden Wattle. The Wattle is eye catching and resilient, and can withstand tough Australian droughts, winds, and bushfires. It is also a symbol of Unity, which echoes Francesca’s diverse heritage as well as the multicultural Australian society.

The vibrant colours and textural layers were influenced by the Waratah, which is the state flower of New South Wales, where Francesca’s home town of Sydney is found; as well as the Kangaroo Paw, which is the West Australian State flower, where this costume was designed and made.

Francesca’s costume features laser cut flowers, metal wiring, and over 20 metres of silk organza, each piece individually cut and hand dyed to achieve a rich and natural blend of colours.