Miss Universe Thailand 2026 Contestants Transform Into Delectable Thai Dishes for Viral Costume Round (Watch Video)
Miss Universe Thailand 2026 contestants made headlines with their National Costume Competition, transforming into iconic Thai dishes and fruits under the 'Fruits & Food: Thailand Soft Power' theme. Held on August 18, 2026, at MGI Hall, the creative outfits, including giant shrimp, Pad Thai, and grilled chicken, have gone viral.
The Miss Universe Thailand 2026 (MUT 2026) pageant spiced things up with its highly anticipated National Costume Competition on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, where 77 contestants dazzlingly transformed into beloved Thai dishes and fruits. Held at the MGI Hall, Bravo BKK, the event captivated audiences with its "Fruits & Food: Thailand Soft Power" theme, a spectacular display aimed at showcasing the nation's rich culinary heritage and cultural identity to the world. Is BLACKPINK Lisa Dating Thai Actor Blue Pongtiwat? Here’s What We Know.
The flamboyant and imaginative ensembles have garnered immense attention, cementing the competition's reputation for its unique approach to national costumes. As the pageant moves towards its preliminary round today, August 20, and the grand finale on August 23, the buzz around these edible-inspired outfits continues to escalate.
Miss Universe Thailand's Costume Round Outfits Viral
The runway was a veritable feast for the eyes as contestants presented costumes that were both extravagant and deeply symbolic of their respective provinces' specialities. The daring theme saw participants literally embody Thailand's most famous flavours, foregoing traditional gowns for larger-than-life representations of culinary delights.
Among the standout creations that quickly went viral online, Sunisa Pinklab, representing Trat, stole the show by transforming into a colossal, quirky giant shrimp. Phairin Srekaew from Uthai Thani paid homage to one of Thailand's most iconic street foods, Pad Thai, with an elaborate costume featuring giant noodles that made the dish a full-fledged runway look. Meanwhile, Warabhorn of Yasothon embraced a more traditional aspect of Thai food culture, appearing as a vibrant local fruit vendor.
Sasiprapa Vitayatanagorn, representing Khon Kaen, brought her province's famous grilled chicken to life, even making an appearance holding an actual piece of the local delicacy. Tharina Botes from Bangkok presented a costume celebrating the classic Thai meal's harmonious blend of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavours. Other notable designs included a mango sticky rice costume from Kalasin and Rutchaneekorn Prasertpornsak from Chonburi paying tribute to the traditional coconut dessert, Khanom Sai Sai.
From Pad Thai to Khanom Sai Sai, Miss Universe Thailand Contestants Dress Up as Food for Costume Round
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A Platform for Thai Soft Power
The National Costume Competition is a pivotal segment, offering contestants a unique opportunity to earn crucial cumulative points towards the prestigious "Celestial Ascent" crown. The ultimate winner of MUT 2026 will earn the honour of representing Thailand at the 75th Miss Universe competition, scheduled to take place in Puerto Rico later this year.
Under the leadership of pageant president Nawat Itsaragrisil and pageant manager Veena Praveenar Singh (Miss Universe Thailand 2025 and first runner-up at the 74th Miss Universe), the 2026 competition is being staged on a grander scale, with significant global attention. The "Fruits & Food" theme is a powerful vehicle for promoting Thailand's "soft power," highlighting its rich cultural tapestry and world-renowned gastronomy. Netizens Choice 2026: BTS’ Jungkook and Lingling Kwong Lead Global Top 10 Winners – Full List Inside.
What's Next for MUT 2026
Following the visually spectacular National Costume Competition, the contestants are now preparing for the Preliminary Competition, which takes place today, August 20, at MGI Hall. The journey will culminate with the highly anticipated Final Competition on Sunday, August 23, where one contestant will be crowned Miss Universe Thailand 2026, ready to embark on her international journey.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 20, 2026 02:08 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
