The Miss Universe season has officially kicked off, and contestants from around the world are already making their way to Thailand, the host country of this year’s global beauty spectacle. But while every candidate arrived looking glamorous, none made quite the entrance that Miss Universe Estonia, Brigitta Schaback, did.
The model and activist transformed herself into a real-life Barbie, complete with her own transparent packaging, and the internet can’t get enough.
Just days before landing in Thailand, Brigitta shared photos and videos on Instagram showing her unique send-off at Tallinn Airport. Inside a clear box resembling a life-sized doll package, she stood perfectly still as onlookers watched in awe.
"Miss Universe Estonia 2025 is officially in transit and on her way to Thailand! With over 16 hours of flying ahead, Estonia’s national treasure had to be shipped in the safest way possible — zero scratches allowed!" the post read.
In the clips, two men carefully lifted the box out of a van and rolled it toward the airport. Once out in the open, Brigitta waved gracefully, embodying the poise and polish of a classic Barbie doll. She looked stunning in a royal-blue evening gown with dramatic sculpted sleeves, her sash and crown completing the look that confirmed her as Estonia’s reigning beauty queen.
Her sleek half-up hairstyle and soft-glam makeup enhanced the illusion of a living doll ready for the runway. The idea wasn’t just a solo stunt. Valeria Vasilieva, Miss Universe Estonia 2024, joined in the fun, sharing her own video pushing the giant box through the airport.
Brigitta’s humor and creativity didn’t stop there. In another Instagram caption that quickly went viral, she joked, "Someone please call DHL — Miss Universe is about to receive its most iconic package straight from Estonia! They said “handle with care,” so I took it seriously. See you so soon, Thailand! Can’t wait to meet you all!"
After the playful performance, Brigitta stepped out of the box and prepared to board her flight to Thailand. A final post captured her standing proudly with the Estonian flag among a pile of luggage.
The viral moment instantly positioned Brigitta as one of the early fan favorites for this year’s Miss Universe crown. Her ability to mix pageant glamour with cultural creativity struck a chord with fans across platforms, many calling her “the real-life Barbie we never knew we needed.”
However, Brigitta’s arrival in Thailand coincided with a moment of mourning for the host country. The contestants landed shortly after the passing of Queen Mother Sirikit, a beloved figure in Thai history.
Out of respect, Miss Estonia shared a solemn tribute upon her arrival. The 2025 Miss Universe pageant is set to take place on November 21 in Thailand, where more than 80 contestants will compete for the iconic crown.