Ukraine's Viktoria Apanasenko reveals national costume for 71st Miss Universe
Miss Universe Ukraine 2022 Viktoria Apanasenko finally revealed her symbolic national costume for the 71st Miss Universe pageant.
The "Warrior of Light" costume symbolizes her nation's fight against the darkness, like an archangel Michael with a sword protecting Ukraine. It was completed in four months of extreme conditions, to the sound of sirens, without electricity, and by candlelight.
In addition to a weapon in her hand, the costume also features a monolithic jumpsuit that covers Viktoria's body like armor, a vyshyvanka-styled white dress with puffy sleeves and skirt with over 10 meters of fabric, a beautiful headpiece, and wings inspired by the colors of the Ukrainian flag.
"It is the personification of inner strength, courage, determination and will flowing in our veins. War cannot break our strength and will not discolor our hearts. Ukraine will bloom like a phoenix even in a fire. It shines with bright rays of kindness and faith," Viktoria shared on social media.
"We are all true warriors of light - unbreakable, made of steel, who will definitely defeat the darkness and evil that has come to our land," she added.
Designed by costume designer Lesia Patoka, the meaningful national costume will be showcased during the upcoming 71st Miss Universe pageant in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA this January.
Photos: Olena Rozbytska / Miss Ukraine
