70th Miss Universe: Who stood out from the preliminary competition?
The glittering 70th Miss Universe preliminary competition and national costume show took place last night at the Universe Dome in Eilat, Israel.
Eighty of the world's most beautiful and empowered women paraded in their swimsuits and evening gowns in front of an all-female panel of the selection committee.
Following the preliminary swimsuit and evening gown competition, the national costume show took place where the contestants showcased their colorful costumes that represent the wonderful culture and tradition of their countries.
Overall standouts who gave the strongest presentations were from Argentina, Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, France, Guatemala, India, Italy, Malta, Nepal, Nigeria, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Spain, USA, Venezuela, and Vietnam.
The contestants who also performed well on stage were from Australia, Cambodia, Canada, Cayman Islands, China, Croatia, Curacao, Czech Republic, Dominican Republic, Equatorial Guinea, Greece, Haiti, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Mauritius, Mexico, Namibia, South Africa, and The Bahamas.
Reigning Miss Universe Andrea Meza hosted the preliminary swimsuit and evening competition with American TV personality Carson Kressley, and the national costume show with American producer Nick Teplitz.
At the end of the preliminary competition, Chantel O'Brian of The Bahamas was awarded the Spirit of Carnival Award while Antonia Figueroa of Chile received the Social Impact Award.
Scores from the crucial preliminary competition will help determine the semi-finalists on the 70th Miss Universe final show on Sunday, December 12.
Stay tuned for the release of our list of favorites in the competition!
Photos: Benjamin Askinas / Miss Universe Organization
