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The Miss Universe National Costume Competition never disappoints with originality. And the 2023 contest is no exception. This contest is a way to represent a country and spread a meaningful message through the medium of fashion. 

For example, back in 2022, the contest was won by Ukraine’s representative, who wore a costume called ‘'The Warrior of Light'. This costume was a personification of the inner strength, courage, determination of Ukrainians, and their love for freedom. 

So, let’s take a look at this year’s costumes and what kind of messages they were meant to send. 

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#1

Ukraine

Ukraine

This costume is a dedication to the unconditional love of a mother and the defenselessness of children in the face of war. Mothers all over Ukraine are begging and dreaming of a sky without missiles. 

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#2

Peru

Peru

The Tumi, a word meaning knife, was once used as a ceremonial instrument in pre-Columbian coastal civilizations. Today it's used as a good luck symbol that can be found in doctor's offices across Peru. 

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#3

Mexico

Mexico

This mystical heroine with a Mexican heart protects the lives of magic beings in her world. The mask headpiece and wings present the perfect fusion of an owl and a deer - animals that represent wisdom and focus.

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#4

El Salvador

El Salvador

Introducing the volcanic and empowerment costume. It honors the transformative power of nature and the human spirit. It features an eruption of volcano elements symbolizing the rebirth of the country. 

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#5

Brazil

Brazil

This costume is a tribute to the majestic blue macaw. As a wing guardian, this delegate brings a message of conservation as danger threatens these birds and the biodiversity they represent.

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#6

Nicaragua

Nicaragua

Check out this great-tailed Grackle. The costume consists of a tight-fitting leotard, a plume decorated with feathers, two immense shiny wings, and an extensive tail decorated with thousands of crystals.

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#7

Iceland

Iceland

This costume represents the midnight sun - a natural phenomenon that occurs during certain months in Iceland. There are several days in which the sun never sets dramatically affecting the country's summer daylight hours. 

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#8

Malta

Malta

In Malta there used to be nearly 50 species of butterflies but overdevelopment caused that number to dwindle. This is both an ode to the insect and an homage to Euro Pride which was recently held in the country.

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#9

Myanmar

Myanmar

In Myanmar Buddhist culture there's a tradition called virtue tree, where donations from savings are collected for the monasteries during festivals. This costume represents a lady dressing up for the ceremony prepared to do good deeds. 

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#10

Thailand

Thailand

Behold The Mother Earth goddess highly revered in worship throughout Thai history. She's often depicted twisting her long hair and producing holy water, which is eventually used to nourish mankind.

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#11

Chile

Chile

Inspired by the condor and made with feathers to create an impressive wingspan this look represents the majestic bird that's native to Chile. Humans are the greatest threat to condors so this delegate wants to raise awareness and prevent extinction. 

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#12

Honduras

Honduras

This look pays tribute to the working spirit of Lenca women - a group dedicated to crafting the colorful designs that haven't changed much in the past 500 years, thanks to ancestral knowledge passed down from mother to daughter for generations.

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#13

Costa Rica

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a small country with diverse ecosystems located between two bodies of water that irrigate the land. This dress represents the rich marine spaces and beautiful beaches while the trident is an ode to coral reef.

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#14

Ireland

Ireland

Celtic goddess of the sea, protecting Irish waters from pollution. Made from recycled plastic lids and reclaimed wool, this costume reminds us that the future of our planet depends on sustainability.

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#15

Venezuela

Venezuela

This handcrafted ensemble is a masterpiece of embroidery and crystal beating. It features red flames, orange and gold, and a mass paying homage to the Dancing Devils - a set of popular religious festivals. 

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#16

Norway

Norway

This costume pays tribute to Queen Sonia of Norway, a great artist who studied dressmaking and is known for wardrobe recycling. Inspired by old folk styles using modern techniques and upcycled materials, this look features the national colors of red, white, and blue.

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#17

South Africa

South Africa

This costume is inspired by the Indian sari, and uses traditional Zulu beadwork to protect this delegate's African and Indian heritage. 

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#18

The Bahamas

The Bahamas

This costume pays homage to a 19th-century doll, a souvenir from the Bahamas world famous international straw market. Woven in burlap and straw accents its gems and stones feature the patriotic colors of gold black and aquamarine.

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#19

Denmark

Denmark

This Nordic ocean dragon is a fusion of fantasy and reality portraying a mythical creature that peacefully resides within the depths of the Nordic Ocean. The costume symbolizes the enduring spirit of the Vikings.

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#20

India

India

Behold a resilient modern Indian who stands tall with grace her diversity, integrity, and strength are embroidered in this armored goddess look. Powerful shoulders highlight the feminine form and the Lotus Halo carries religious symbols.

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#21

Bolivia

Bolivia

The Bolivian Amazonian Warrior was sent to defend against the extinction of the blue-bellied wild bird. The bodice and skirt were embroidered with seeds and the whole costume is made from recyclable materials. Behold this bird defender and all of her splendor Bolivia.

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#22

Guyana

Guyana

80% of Guyana is covered in rainforest, so this costume represents the country's abundance of wildlife. Aside from the array of animals, the skirt features lilies - a beautiful aquatic plant that's native to South America.

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#23

Trinidad And Tobago

Trinidad And Tobago

Tobago the Scarlet Abyss is a small bird with long legs to help it wave through water. As they grow the bird's color intensifies and that brilliant red you see embodies the vibrance and passion of the people in this delegate’s country.

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#24

Angola

Angola

The Mumuhuila women manage their husbands' fortunes and beads necklaces they wear are symbols of their wealth. These women are a vital part of Angolian culture, even wear their many necklaces to sleep. 

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#25

Guatemala

Guatemala

This outfit was inspired by the national flower of Guatemala - the white nun orchid. These delicate beauties inhabit the cloud forest of her country. So, the back of this costume features its gorgeous petals.

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#26

Germany

Germany

Rapunzel is a German fairy tale about a girl crossing borders and looking for the light. This brave German princess never stops believing in the force for good, inspiring this delegate to keep fighting. 

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#27

Panama

Panama

This one represents a popular Panama melody called a drum of joy. On its back, you’ll find a pentagram and musical notes along with 10 flowers of the holy spirit for the country’s natural flower. 

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#28

Saint Lucia

Saint Lucia

This look is a tribute to Nobel Prize winners from her country as St Lucia has the highest number of Nobel laureates per Capita. The laurate Insignia is embedded in this gold and bronze costume. 

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#29

Indonesia

Indonesia

This costume pays homage to the characters in an interpretation of the epic saga Mahabharata. It highlights resilience and wisdom in the face of adversity, encouraging virtuous living and justice. 

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#30

Bulgaria

Bulgaria

Handmade using faux feathers it's the golden owl - Bulgaria's largest nocturnal bird of prey. It personifies courage and fearlessness - a perfect reminder to pursue and achieve our goals. 

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#31

Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan

Queen Tomiris is a significant figure in Kazakh history. This costume celebrates the courage and bravery of the great ruler of the past, while the details and patterns symbolize the country's culture.

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#32

Dominican Republic

Dominican Republic

Plantains are one of the top crops in the Dominican Republic and a favorite local food. This costume called plantain power features the beautiful flower that produces the plantain and ready to eat headpiece. 

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#33

Great Britain

Great Britain

Great Britain gave the world English - the official language of 67 countries. This national costume is a tribute to both the English language and the Oxford Dictionary - an unsurpassed guide that documents around 600,000 words. 

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#34

Jamaica

Jamaica

Port Royal was the wealthiest city in the Caribbean, destroyed by the great earthquake of 1692, the sunken city still boasts a vivid profusion of marine life and breathtaking treasures. 

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#35

Korea

Korea

This outfit was made by the same designer who crafted looks for the girl group blackpink, who performed at Coachella this year. It's a modern interpretation of a tire worn by royalty at a coronation ceremony. 

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#36

Malaysia

Malaysia

Sonet is a decorative handwoven fabric made by interesting gold or silver thread in between the base design. Traditionally worn by royalty today it is used all over the country for weddings and other festive occasions.

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#37

Mongolia

Mongolia

This look draws inspiration from 13th century Mongolia. In those days women's hair stood so tall it reached for the heavens, and their head was topped with hats like that, much like their aspirations reach skyward.

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#38

Namibia

Namibia

Oryx is Namibia's national animal. It represents rising resilience and adaptability.

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#39

Spain

Spain

This costume pays tribute  to Spain's traditions with a flamenco-inspired dress that has dramatic ruffles around the train and wrists. 

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#40

Vietnam

Vietnam

This costume was inspired by the worship of the Tom Fu mother, which was recognized by UNESCO in 2016. Combined with the Lotus it showcases the temperament and soul of the Vietnamese people. In case you didn't notice she's a fan of the lotus in Vietnam. 

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#41

Australia

Australia

Drawing on one of Australia's most prized assets, this dress is a celebration of its incredible and unique native wildflowers. On display the flowers symbolizing the land, sea, sun and people. 

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#42

Bahrain

Bahrain

This costume is called a beat of pearl and is a please to preserve by Bahrain's pearl heritage. The glistening objects are one of the world's great treasures and a key part of the gulf country's culture and economy. 

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#43

Finland

Finland

Growing up as a redhead Paula admired Scandinavian and fairy tale characters with red hair. they gave her confidence so this costume is an ode to Finish children and the characters that inspire them to succeed. 

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#44

Portugal

Portugal

The dress represents the Portugal Republic and was inspired by its famous poster.

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#45

Switzerland

Switzerland

This ensemble honors the Swiss guard steadfast protectors of the Pope. The Renaissance style uniform is adorned with stones to make it more feminine and comes complete with a bedazzled weapon. 

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#46

Cambodia

Cambodia

This goddess outfit honors the Mekong river. Much like the pure powerful waters in the Mekong, the women of Cambodia embody strength and power. This costume represents the flow of health, happiness and prosperity. 

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#47

France

France

This la vie en rose costume was custom made for youth at Moulin Rouge. French singer Edith Piaf sang at the world-famous Cabaret in 1944 and this look pays homage to the iconic figure on an international stage.

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#48

Japan

Japan

Here we see a kimono that was crafted by a female leader in Japan's beauty industry. Made in a traditional style with a sprinkle of sparkle, the red represents the sunrise of a new day, while the white signifies pureness.

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#49

Nepal

Nepal

A world flawed by conflict often leads us to confine the peaceful dove to a cage. This attire embodies Nepal's desire to promote peace, both as an enduring legacy within their country and around the world. 

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#50

Pakistan

Pakistan

This costume is all about individuality. The delegate aims to celebrate the rich and diverse culture, history and lifestyle of her country through this outfit. Pakistan is home to multiple ethnicities and 74 Languages. 

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#51

Poland

Poland

Here we see white and red, the colors of Poland's flag, but the costume's unique design is meant to represent all the other contestants' homelands as well. It's an ode to pageantry and the world's most beautiful women. 

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#52

Albania

Albania

The eagle is a symbol of Albanian nobility. And it's no coincidence that its wings are golden, as in the country it represents beautiful and prosperous. This proud, graceful bird is not afraid to soar to new heights. 

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#53

Lebanon

Lebanon

The dress worn by Lebanon's Miss Universe delegate Maya Aboul Hosn. 

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#54

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico

This costume “Fiesta de la Calle San Sebastián” pays tribute to the architecture of Old San Juan, while representing the most important cultural Festival in Puerto Rico. It's a celebration of music, folklore and art. 

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#55

Aruba

Aruba

This indigenous queen safeguards what matters most – our planet. In her care she defends not just her people, but the very earth beneath our feet. Standing firm against the threat of climate change. 

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#56

Cayman Islands

Cayman Islands

One of five subspecies found only on Cayman Island the pygmy blue butterfly is one of the smallest in the world. About the size of a pinky nail they have black and white banded antennae and despite their name, they are primarily copper brown. 

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#57

Laos

Laos

This dress is made of red lao silk with golden stripes and symbolizes patience. It was inspired by the craftsmanship and wisdom of her country's people, that has been passed down from generation to generation.

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#58

Netherlands

Netherlands

The tulip is the most famous flower in the Netherlands, and every color has meaning. The orange represents enthusiasm but this delegate is enthusiastic about all the colors, as she has evolved into the proud woman you see here. 

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#59

Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe

Covered in cowry shells to represent womanhood, the orange fabric on the back of this outfit symbolizes Zimbabwe setting sun. On the shoulders you'll notice mighty lions covered in gold, a mineral found beneath their land.

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#60

Cameroon

Cameroon

This costume honors women who've made an impact on the women's empowerment movement in Cameroon. It's meant to inspire girls who may not yet believe in themselves that they too can change the world. 

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#61

Czech Republic

Czech Republic

The inspiration for this natural costume is a beautiful jewel - the Czech garnet. Because the gem is known for its red color a nude fabric was used so both the delegate and the stones would stand out creating the appearance of one large gem.

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#62

Greece

Greece

Behold o the Priestess of the Goddess Aphrodite. This costume consists of an all-silk tunic brown to symbolize Mother Earth. A handmade metal piece was designed above the tunic which symbolizes vegetation.

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#63

Nigeria

Nigeria

This look represents the power and impact women have had on Nigeria throughout history. It's an ode to three notable Queens in particular whose influence as heroines and warriors shaped the great nation.

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#64

Argentina

Argentina

Inspired by the sun of May, this costume represents the national symbol or Argentinian flag. The look comes complete with a cape showcasing the iconic World Cup and traditional cuisine.

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#65

Egypt

Egypt

When flooding the Nile River used to leave behind silt that was rich in minerals allowing crops to flourish. These days the river is tainted due to tons of waste being dumped in it, so this costume is a call to stop the pollution. 

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#66

Hungary

Hungary

This Modern take on a traditional Hungarian folk costume features a red velvet jacket that closes under the bus with a sash. Underneath is a fine silk peasant blouse and one of a pattern skirt. 

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#67

Italy

Italy

This dress chronicles Italian scientific history. It represents the light of reason illuminating the great female minds of the past and present. From the darkness of illiteracy at the bottom to the bright sun on top. 

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#68

Kosovo

Kosovo

This look was inspired by singer and actress Nexhmije Pagarusha. Known for music and fashion she experimented with different styles and had a profound impact on the country. 

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#69

Canada

Canada

This costume is a testament to the values of diversity and acceptance that Canada upholds. It features elements from countries competing at Miss Universe intertwined with Canada's flag

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#70

Curaçao

Curaçao

This costume represents Curaçao’s inspiring athletes who want to one day compete at the Olympic games beneath their island flag. It embodies determination and resilience while blending regal beauty with athletic symbolism. 

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#71

Latvia

Latvia

The daisy is the national flower of Latvia. Its presence in meadows and fields has long inspired poets and it is often depicted in traditional latvian art, embroidery and even folk songs.

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#72

Slovakia

Slovakia

The gold florals are a nod to Rye Island, as they look like wheat.

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#73

Colombia

Colombia

This piece is inspired by an iconic river in the Llanos region. It's a testament to the enchanting landscapes of the Colombian Eastern plains crafted with Swarovski crystals and adorned with glass beads. 

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#74

Equador

Equador

Behold the Ecuadorian Railway completed in 1908. On the back is a wagon featuring a steam-producing chimney and on top you'll find a crown representing the lanterns used by the rail workers.

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#75

Mauritius

Mauritius

Vaco is a Mauritian artist known for his depictions of Island life. This native design topped with a shell Crown was inspired by the artist and reflects the beauty and colors of the island nation. you won't hear us wine about a native design from Mauritius. 

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#76

Paraguay

Paraguay

 Legendary guitarist Mangor the outfit is adorned with sequins and colors that represent the energy that flows through music. and the colors of the two flags stand for justice, peace, and Freedom. 

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#77

British Virgin Islands

British Virgin Islands

Lady Ursula and her 11 lamps represent the 11,000 virgins who according to legend were martyred along with the Romano British princess St Ursula. The white in her dress signifies purity and the gold triumph. 

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#78

Equatorial Guinea

Equatorial Guinea

This costume is inspired by Equatorial Guinea's national emblem - the Ceiba is one of the largest trees in the tropics, its strength is a metaphor for the country's power against colonial chains. The crystals represent the divine liberation through Independence. 

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#79

Singapore

Singapore

Here we see a blend of heritage and rich cultural Tapestry. The ensemble is embellished with Indian and Southeast Asian Accessories, and to honor Singapore's national identity vibrant shades of red were incorporated. 

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#80

Belgium

Belgium

This stunning costume is an ade to Latin dance and features red - the color of the Belgian flag. The train's fabric is from her Royal Highness Princess Devine van de Prinsenhof, who's an artist and fashion designer. 

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#81

Croatia

Croatia

This look was inspired by the natural beauty of the Lika region - the largest national park in Croatia and a world heritage site. The costume features the area's rarest flower and a leak of a cap that's a mod modern version of a Roman empire headdress. 

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#82

Philippines

Philippines

It's a bird. it's a plane, it's the Philippines. Crowned with a captain's hat this costume is a salute to the delegate's role as an Air Force reservist. This look is representative of her country, resilient and radiant.

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#83

USA

USA

Behold America's famous landmarks. As the daughter of a Venezuelan immigrant the Statue of Liberty is especially meaningful to this delegate. also featured our red white and blue fireworks and thousands of crystals. 

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