Miss South Africa Mia le Roux has revealed her Miss Universe national costume that she would have worn at the pageant, at Cape Town Fashion Week (CTFW): The Edit Spring Summer 24.

CTFW – a landmark event in the African fashion calendar and presented by Africa Fashion International, took place this weekend at the Hollywoodbets Kenilworth Racecourse and featured top designers from South Africa and the African continent.

The magnificent Ndebele-inspired national costume, with its culturally significant symbols, featured an original artwork at the base of the gown from iconic Ndebele artist Dr Esther Mahlangu.

Dr Mahlangu was one of the first women to take the unique, colourful, geometric paintings that symbolise Ndebele culture into the world, making them instantly recognisable on a global stage.

Le Roux, who was born deaf but given the gift of hearing after a cochlea implant at the age of four, said she was delighted South Africans were able to see the eye-catching garment after she had to withdraw from the Miss Universe competition due to severe vertigo, which required medical intervention.

“The gown is an original work of art by Dr Esther Mahlangu, one of South Africa’s most iconic cultural ambassadors and celebrates our interconnectedness. Its intricate handmade design demonstrates the creative traditions of South Africa,” said Le Roux.

“It is a silent but powerful request to celebrate our differences, to preserve our cultural practices and to foster inclusion so that we can build a sustainable future. As Maya Angelou famously wrote, ‘through adversity still, I rise’. This has rung true for me and Dr Mahlangu, as we bring South African cultures together to inspire unity. They are also the words I have carried with me during this difficult time.”

Stephanie Weil, CEO of the Miss South Africa Organisation, said: “We are thrilled we have been able to reveal this year’s national costume on such an iconic stage as CTFW and on home soil too. The past month threw a couple of curveballs our way but Mia has once again demonstrated how she has triumphed over disability and has done us proud.”

The white cloud wings, which accompanied the costume, were made of feathers sourced from Cape Karoo International, in Le Roux’s hometown of Oudtshoorn, and were created by Hollywood Costumes and inspired by Le Roux’s journey.

Cape Argus