Is it a bird? Is it a winged goddess? Is it a giant roulette wheel? At the Miss Universe national costume contest, it was all those things — and more.

The "national costume" part of the Miss Universe pageant has, and will always be, my favorite part of the Miss Universe pageant. The United States has had quite the history of some interesting costumes over the years, like this one from 2022: Yep, it moved. In 2001, Miss USA's national costume was a cowgirl.

Who won the Miss Universe National Costume in 2023? Days after the Miss Universe 2023 pageant final, the organization announced the winner of the national costume competition. Thi

A crown can be heavy, but so can a national costume for Miss Universe. The national costume contest at the international tilt is a chance for the candidates to put their respective countries on display,

Miss Russia Valentina Alekseeva participates in the National Costume Show during the 73rd Miss Universe pageant in Mexico City, Mexico. Miss Ecuador Mara Topic participates in the National Costume Show during the 73rd Miss Universe pageant in Mexico City, Mexico.

The United States has had quite the history of some interesting costumes over the years, like this one from 2022: Yep, it moved. In 2001, Miss USA's national costume was a cowgirl. In 2002, post-9/11, she was a firefighter.

The 2024 Miss Universe costume contest took place on Thursday. The boldest looks included feathered backpieces, sparkly details, and daring cutouts.

Contestants show off their National Costumes and Swimwear at the Miss Universe Competition in Mexico City4, 2024.