Klerksdorp Midweek, Klerksdorp - Miss South Africa Mia le Roux has revealed her Miss Universe national costume and three gowns that she would have worn at the pa-geant, at Cape Town Fashion Week (CTFW): The Edit Spring Summer 24. 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. There was also input from the AFI Atelier.
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, shares the spirit of Ubuntu with Dr Mahlangu.
Le Roux 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. The headpiece reflects the warm South African sun and is symbolic of hope.
“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.”
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.
Explained Hollywood Costumes owner Heidi du Toit: “Many South African know that when Le Roux had a cochlea implant, her first spoken words two years later were ‘look there, white clouds’. This profound moment inspired the wing design which symbolises the first time she was able to use her voice. The white clouds, made from ostrich feathers, represent hope.”
Le Roux also walked the CTFW runway in three gowns designed by Anél Botha which she would have worn in the pageant finale.
Botha revealed her thinking behind the creations: “Mia has a strong silhouette and has a very classic look, so I incorporated that into the designs along with architectural elements and a lot of sparkle. These elements come together to complement who Mia is and stands for.”
