15
April
2021

Laos’ Christina Lasasimma reveals her national costume for Miss Universe 2020

15 Apr 2021 | Priya Bhardwaj

Miss Universe Laos organization has officially unveiled Christina Lasasimma’s national costume for Miss Universe 2020 on the momentous occasion of the Lao New Year which falls on 14th April. The surprising reveal was shown on the first day of the Lao New Year and its timing was perfect as the ensemble is connected to the New Year.

This simple yet beautiful costume greatly shows the beauty and rich culture of Laos. It depicts landmarks throughout Laos, a four-head god from the origin story of Lao New Year/Nang Sangkhan (the seven princess goddesses), an attire from Luang Prabang - the northern region and former capital of Laos’ ancient kingdom, and includes a fabulous fashion addition in relation to the pandemic, a matching mask!

 

 

The hand-made gold thread embroidery costume is over $12,000 US dollar including over 200 years old 24K pure gold jewellery from the most famous Laung Phrabang city that is also a UNESCO world heritage. This costume is the outfit for former royal family of the kingdom of Laos aging back to ancient times representing the rich culture and ancient art handicrafts of Laos.

Luang Prabang is exceptional for both its rich architectural and artistic heritage that reflects the fusion of Lao traditional urban architecture with that of the colonial era. Its remarkably well-preserved townscape reflects the alliance of these two distinct cultural traditions. The dark red umbrella she held depicts famous sites throughout Laos as golden miniatures.

 

 

Christina represented the god's daughter (Nang Sungkhan), Lao New Year princess that carries her four-head god from heaven down to earth for worshipping and getting them washed on The Lao New Year, celebrated every year on 14th to 16th April, after which she brings them back to heaven. The four-head statue is symbolic of god protecting north, south, east, and west. Her costume portrays the legend of how the Lao New Year started.

With a detailed hand-crafted costume displaying the legend of a world heritage, it will be no surprise if Christina’s costume wins the Best in National Costume competition. Miss Universe Laos 2020, Christina Lasasimma will represent Laos at the 69th edition of Miss Universe on 16th May 2021 in the United States. The winner will succeed Miss Universe 2019 Zozibini Tunzi from South Africa for the title.