Miss SA on her way to Miss Universe

Staff Reporter
Wed, 25 Apr 2007

Megan Coleman will represent South Africa at the Miss Universe competition in Mexico City on 28 May 2007. Contestants from more than 80 countries will descend on the Mexican capital for what promises to be a spectacular event.

“I am nervous and excited to be going to Miss Universe but I am entering the competition with the same mindset that I had when I entered Miss SA. What will be, will be,” says Megan Coleman.

Red carpet look

This year, Malcolm Kluk created Megan’s Miss Universe Evening Gown: "The inspiration for the dress is definitely Megan Coleman. I wanted something glamorous and vintage, red-carpet-looking; like a movie star from the 20's or 30's. I chose red as a colour that will make Megan noticeable and appliquéd self-coloured red lace with Swarovski crystals as a detail to give the gown a three-dimensional feel. It is very important that Megan comes across as the star and not the dress,” says Kluk.

Fine feathers

JJ Schoeman designed Miss South Africa’s National Costume. The design incorporates leopard and zebra skins because they are easily recognisable as African wildlife. Ostrich feathers have also been used in the design.

“The ostrich is one of SA’s most beautiful birds and during the previous turn of the century, created a lot of wealth for our ostrich barons who exported the magnificent feathers to the fashion capitals of the world. The feathers are still a favourite with international couturiers,” says JJ Schoeman.

“The fabric is an earthy palette of desert sand and ivory which forms the base of the draping. Traditional beads have also been used to reflect our rich and diverse cultures. The billowy sleeves celebrate our newly found freedom and democracy. The asymmetry of the design symbolises how opposites in one world can live and share together in peaceful harmony. The choice of raw silk is a tribute to our natural resources. The design in itself is sophisticated and embodies the girl wearing it” he adds.

Beautiful beads

Megan will take with her the national gift to be bestowed upon Mexico: a beaded handbag designed by Gerrit Pienaar (Claris) and beaded by disabled members of the Protective Workshop Forum in Tshwane. Gerrit mentors disabled beaders and is delighted to see their traditional beading talents emerge in a modern expression of fashion. The beadwork on the bag represents tribal South Africa reflecting traditional Zulu, Ndebele and Venda beading.

Mexico last hosted the competition in 1993. Puerto Rican native, Zuleyka Rivera, Miss Universe 2006 will crown her successor at the conclusion of the telecast. During her reign, she travelled the world as an advocate for HIV/Aids education, research, and legislation. The newly crowned Miss Universe will go on to do the same.

Miss Universe is one of the world's most watched events. The 56th Annual Miss Universe® Competition will air on NBC and Telemundo on Monday, May 28, 2007 from 9 — 11 pm.

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