During the “Miss Universe 2022” pageant in New Orleans, USA, Ukraine’s 28-year-old Viktoria Apanasenko from Chernihiv wowed the crowd by unveiling her “Warrior of Light” costume. Her first appearance on the stage was enchanting; the model captivated the audience with her breathtaking dress.
The outfit — aptly named “Warrior of Light” – symbolizes Ukraine’s fight for freedom and independence. The dress embodies warriors fighting for Ukraine on the front lines, all those supporting them, volunteering, lobbying, trying their hardest in different countries and continents, promoting Ukraine’s victory, and overcoming the darkness together. The outfit designer, Lesya Patoka, envisioned the image of Archangel Michael, who protects Ukraine with a sword, when creating the outstanding costume. “The Warrior of Light costume symbolizes the struggle of our people against darkness. Like Archangel Michael, who defends Ukraine with a sword, he protects us.”
The “Warrior of Light” outfit was created in Ukraine for four months in extreme conditions, under the sound of sirens, without electricity, by candlelight. The dress dazzled the audience with its spellbinding wings, which opened during Apanasenko’s performance. “The wingspan is 5 meters, they also have armor with Ukrainian embroidery and golden spikes,” says Viktoria Apanasenko on her Instagram.
“Viktoria has a weapon in her hands, her body is covered with armor, and at the same time she brings light through the darkness that came to our peaceful lands with the aggressor. The one-piece jumpsuit symbolizes armor and hugs Victoria like a second skin.”
Six months ago:
