The Miss Universe 2025 National Costume Show in Thailand delivered not only over-the-top fashion and cultural pride but also an unexpected display of camaraderie that quickly stole the spotlight.
Held in a packed arena buzzing with excitement, 122 contestants showcased elaborate national costumes inspired by nature, heritage, and iconic symbols. Feathers, metallic structures, oversized floral arrangements, and intricate embroidery filled the stage as each candidate presented a vibrant, creative, and extravagant interpretation of their country’s identity.
After individually presenting their looks, the contestants gathered for one final collective walk. It was an opportunity for the audience to take in the full spectacle of colors, textures, and gigantic costume structures that often extended far beyond each contestant’s personal space.
It was during this closing segment that a touching moment between Miss Chile, Inna Moll, and Miss Cuba, Lina Luaces, quietly unfolded. As the contestants arranged themselves on stage, Miss Cuba found herself partially hidden behind larger costumes. Noticing this, Miss Chile subtly stepped aside and offered part of her space, gently motioning for Miss Cuba to move forward so she too could be seen and appreciated.
The two were later seen holding hands and smiling. It was an image that radiated friendship, support, and the spirit of healthy competition. Within hours, the clip circulated widely online, drawing emotional reactions from pageant fans around the world.
Social media users flooded comment sections with praise. One Cuban fan wrote, “My respect to the Chilean queen, I’m Cuban and it brought me to tears.”
Another added, Solidarity is what makes us beautiful.” Others highlighted the grace behind the gesture, “Only a true queen would make such a gesture.”Chilean fans expressed their pride as well.
Many praised Miss Chile, commenting. “Inna Moll is our future Miss Universe.” Another popular message read, This is what being a queen is about, not just external beauty.” And one Chilean supporter summed up the sentiment with, "We chose the right one to represent us.”
More highlights from the runway:
Beyond the tender exchange between Miss Chile and Miss Cuba, another moment dominated headlines when Miss Jamaica, Dr. Gabrielle Henry, suffered a dramatic fall during the preliminary evening gown round. As Henry crossed the stage in a flowing orange gown and high heels, she missed a step and tumbled completely off the stage. The incident was captured in several audience videos that spread across social media.
Subsequent footage showed Henry being carried out on a stretcher, prompting immediate concern from fans and pageant followers worldwide. Miss Universe owner Raul Rocha later issued an update through Instagram, assuring the public that Henry had been evaluated at a hospital in Bangkok and was not suffering from any broken bones. The Miss Universe Jamaica Organization also released a statement confirming she was receiving medical care and that initial reports indicated no life-threatening injuries. Despite the frightening fall, supporters praised Henry’s earlier performance that night in the swimsuit, national costume, and evening gown rounds.
Another standout moment from the national costume presentation came courtesy of Miss Norway, Leonora Lysglimt-Rødland, whose daring salmon-inspired ensemble became an instant global sensation. Stepping onto the runway encased in a shimmering pink-and-silver fish costume complete with fins, scales, and a sculpted salmon head, she fully committed, delivering fierce poses, playful “fish glare” expressions, and undeniable confidence.
The costume, a tribute to Norway’s maritime heritage and fishing traditions, drew cheers from the audience and immediate attention online. The show’s voiceover amplified the fun, announcing, “This salmon-inspired gown mirrors both the delegate’s movements as a baton twirler and the essence of Norway’s leading export,” followed by the now-viral line, “This river runner is a stunner, Norway!” The biggest surprise came during her reveal moment, when Lysglimt-Rødland slipped out of the massive salmon exterior to unveil a semi-sheer bodysuit designed to mimic the inside of the fish.