Puerto Rico's Michelle Marie Colón shows off national costume for 70th Miss Universe

Miss Universe Puerto Rico 2021 Michelle Marie Colón showed off her national costume for the 70th Miss Universe pageant on the "Viva la Tarde" program of Wapa TV.

The national costume called "Protectora de Nuestras Costas” not only pays tribute to the Puerto Rican Afro-descendants but also carries a message of awareness for the conservation of the environment.

Recycled materials such as plastic bottles, caps, and bags, some of the most common and harmful pollutants in the seas, were collected and transformed into art and music elements for this beautiful creation.

Inspired by Puerto Rico's first indigenous music "la bomba" the costume is a collaborative work of Dominican designers Leonel Lirio and plastic artist Luis Rivas.

“I wanted a dress that had color, movement, and that transmitted energy. I am extremely happy to be able to bring not only these elements to the universal stage but also to be able to represent the wealth of our Afro-descendants. The dress symbolizes the union and inclusion of the Caribbean culture, integrating into one piece," Michelle said.

Photos: Miss Universe Puerto Rico