From dinosaur fossils to tom yum goong, 77 contestants from all Thai provinces took the stage of Miss Grand Thailand this week, each wearing flamboyant costumes to show off their hometown’s highlights.
On Wednesday night, the contestants went all out in a round arguably referred to as “National Costume.” Their pageant’s organizer also opened votes for the winner on Facebook, where some contestants have received tens of thousands of likes for their creativity. Here’s a round-up of some of our favorites:
First up is Miss Trang, who represents her province’s flawless beaches with the “underwater wedding dress” complete with an oxygen tank and diving mask. Although most people say it’s less wedding and more Luang Cave rescue (which thankfully ended in success by the time she walked out in this dress.)
To keep the nature theme going, Miss Tak boasts her province’s Thi Lo Su waterfall. At 450 meters high, it’s believed to be the highest waterfall in Thailand.
Miss Narathiwat seems indecisive. Her costume was largely inspired by the elaborate and vibrant design of kolae boats, a signature fishing boat of her southern hometown. At the same time, she serves the audience with a traditional pulled tea.
Miss Chanthaburi swoops in with a dynamic display of her province’s internationally renowned gem making industry. (If anything, it also reminds us of those gem swap games on smartphone.)
Lopburi honors its nickname of Monkey City, by jumping in as Hanuman, the monkey commander from the Ramakien epic.
Channeling the province’s fighter spirit, Miss Surin suited up in an armory gown, weapons in hand — ready for battle.
Nakhon Si Thammarat knows nothing works up an appetite quite like their tom yum goong.
Miss Songkhla pleases the millennials by becoming a mermaid, with her own beach backdrop.
Finally, Khon Kaen embraces the title of Thailand’s Jurassic Park. It’s a little known fact that this northeastern province has dug up many dinosaur fossils.
Found your favorite? Here are other costumes worth an honorable mention:
