Miss Universe 2011: Dazzling costumes show national pride (PHOTOS)

By Rafael Abreu Posted Sep 8th 2011 10:30AM

miss universe contestants dazzle in costume

By HIRANIA LUZARDO
AOL LATINO Editor
SAO PAULO – Wednesday was one of those days in which the 89 contestants vying for Miss Universe 2011 got to truly lavish in their beauty and shimmer in every sense of the word. In the early morning hours, from Credicard Hall, every aspirant to the crown donned her most dazzling costume in a true show of color, creativity and, most of all, national pride.

Within the space of four hours, the beauty queens filmed the national costume spectacle, which will be part of the live show on Monday, September 12 at 9 p.m. (EST) on NBC and Telemundo, as the final trials get underway to see who will take the Miss Universe 2011 crown.

Once again, Latina candidates showed they're a force to be reckoned with raising all bets on their reaching the finals. European and African beauties were also standout spectacular representing their countries in the most stunning -- sometimes unusual -- way.

>>>Peek some typically atypical gowns that represent contestants' national identity

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Miss Universe - National Costumes

Take a look: Contestants of Miss Universe 2011 in their beautiful National Costumes.
>> Click on the image or the arrows to enter the gallery

Miss Universe

Getty Images North America

Miss Universe - National Costumes

Dalia Fernandez, Miss Dominican Republic, received a standing ovation from fans at the Credicard Hall, who couldn't stop shouting: "Dalia, you will be the next Miss Universe!"

Miss Universe - National Costumes

Miss Venezuela, Vanessa Goncalves, is a strong contender for the semifinal round. Without a doubt, her national costume drew a great deal of attention.

Miss Universe - National Costumes

Miss USA, Alyssa Campanella, showed off her sexy patriotic side in her costume.

Miss Universe - National Costumes

Miss Brazil, Priscila Machado, had to look extra spectacular as she represents the host country for this year's pageant; and what better way than to highlight the emblematic spirit known worldwide by Carnaval in Rio?

Miss Universe - National Costumes

Miss Argentina, Natalia Rodriguez, was all Tango and passion.

Miss Universe - National Costumes

Gillian Berry, the stunning Miss Aruba, looked simply magnificent in her eye-catching costume.

Miss Universe - National Costumes

Miss Philippines, Shamcey Supsup, showed an elegant style in her golden skirt and draped in fine jewelry.

Miss Universe - National Costumes

Pia Pakarinen, Miss Finland, wore an understated and simple costume in hues of sky blue, compared to the bombast of color and creativity of the other candidates vying for the Miss Universe 2011 crown.

Miss Universe - National Costumes

Miss France, Laury Thilleman, embodied tradition in her costume, a la Marie Antoinette, which even included fine pastries in hand.

Miss Universe - National Costumes

Yayra Nego, Miss Ghana, wore a costume with a huge tail that required the assistance of several members of the Miss Universe crew to help her onto the stage.

Miss Universe - National Costumes