kicks off its preliminaries

The 65th Miss Universe pageant’s preliminary round just wrapped up in the Philippines. The contestants showcased their countries' heritage through elaborate outfits during the national costume show on Thursday.

Miss India, Roshmitha Harimurthy wore a costume that incorporated a representation from most Indian traditional wear, north and south. Kiran Jassal, a Sikh woman with roots in India, represented Malaysia at the Miss Universe pageant. Kiran wowed the audience with her futuristic silver jumpsuit. It had a replica of the iconic Petronas Towers on her shoulders.

Miss Myanmar Htet Htet Htun impressed the crowd with her elaborate costume. Instead of walking the runway, she performed like a puppet while carrying the "stage backdrop" on her back. And as in any pageant, some candidates had issues with their costumes.

Miss USA Deshauna Barber was dressed as a superhero. She was supposed to transform with wings, but had technical difficulty. She instead posed with her silver shield.

Fan favorite Miss Venezuela Mariam Habach, who channeled ocean goddess Yemaya, was in an exaggerated blue and white balloon dress with a scepter on one hand, and a mask on the other. She had difficulty walking to a point she was assisted off stage.

Although the spectacular national costume segment had no bearing on the preliminary scores, it was a show featuring the candidates' culture all of them exuding confidence and grace under pressure.