Miss SA is all set for Miss Universe

24 July 2009

Miss South Africa Tatum Keshwar will be jetting off to the Bahamas’ for the Miss Universe contest on 31 July. Contestants from more than 80 countries around the world will be judged in three categories: swimsuit, evening gown and interview as they vie for the coveted title of Miss Universe 2009. In recent years, worldwide broadcast distribution of the popular pageant has topped more than 180 countries.

Tatum arrives in Nassau on 1 August and the first couple of days will be filled with fittings, video tapings and opportunities for her to get to know her fellow contestants. On the 5 and 6 August she’ll be visiting the Ardastra Gardens, Fort Charlotte, Clifton Heritage Site and the National Art Gallery. She’ll also get to meet the Governor General.

On the 7 August she’ll visit a Bahamian arts & crafts centre and attend the welcome dinner. Several South African designers including; Gerrit Pienaar, Hendrik Vermeulen, Haroun Hansrot, Malcolm Kluk & CGDT and Katherine Kidger have put together a couture collection of formal garments. Tatum is spoiled for choice when deciding what to wear at the different Miss Universe events.

There’ll be plenty of opportunities for the camera’s to catch a glimpse of Tatum in her swimwear as she enjoys island day trips to Exuma & Bimini and Eleuthra & Abaco. The televised swimsuit show will take place on 9 August at the Grand Bahama Yacht Club in Port Lucaya.

The National Costume show is planned for 10 August at the Rain Forest Theatre at the Wyndham Hotel. Tatum is wearing a modern Zulu bridal gown designed by RjKay Creations.

“Tatum will look like a heavenly princess in my modern interpretation of traditional Zulu garments,” says Paledi Segapo from RjKay Creations.

The first authentic Zulu item Tatum will be wearing is the “Isicholo” - a wide red hat made of straw and which symbolises a woman’s crowning glory. This flaring red beaded headdress is reminiscent of the hairstyle of her ancestors. Beads are the pride of the Zulu nation encompassing a symbolic language that includes messages of love and encouragement, and RjKay has beautifully hand crafted “Amacici” earrings in pink, white, sea blue and other colours. The second item is the “Isikoti” - a traditional cape made of eleven beaded panels stitched together with animal print fabric signifying royalty, authority and strength. The third item Tatum will be wearing is an “Isidwaba” - a pleated skirt made of cowhide that is softened by hand. Other accessories include beaded neck and arm bracelets and an “Isagila” - a short stick signifying joy.

From 12 to 22 August Tatum will be in rehearsals prior to the live telecast on the 23 August at Atlantis, Paradise Island where Venezuelan Dayana Mendoza, Miss Universe 2008, will crown her successor. During her reign, Dayana has travelled the globe as an advocate for HIV/AIDS education, research and legislation. The newly crowned Miss Universe will go on to do the same.

Charlene Sauerman and JJ Schoeman have both designed stunning dresses for Tatum to wear at the finale. Charlene is an industry icon, and for over 17 years she’s dressed some of SA’s most prominent celebrities, brides and socialites.

Charlene’s design is a symphony of mint and silver, movement and shape, line and texture. Charlene’s glamorous style is aptly depicted in her choice of lustrous fabrics; silk chiffon, silk satin and Chantilly lace. Intricate crystal beading has been interwoven into the design. Tatum’s unusual beauty is the inspiration for Charlene’s design - her rich long dark hair, exquisite almond shaped eyes, elegant figure and beautiful long legs.

Tatum will also be wearing two unofficial dresses from Charlene Sauerman at other Miss Universe events.

“My knowledge and experience of global pageants has influenced the creation of my evening gown design. I know that as Tatum steps on stage she has to make an impressive statement and her gown has to be an absolute showstopper,” says JJ.

The fabrics JJ has chosen to adorn Tatum’s slender shape are silk stretch and dreamy silk chiffon in hues of pink. The fabrics are silky and fluid, giving the dress movement and grace, perfectly accentuating her figure, emphasising her long legs and revealing her slim upper body and feminine neckline.

“Swarovski crystals are the basis of the design and perfectly complement the romantic pink fabric. The effect is shimmery and dazzling,” says JJ.

The dresses are strikingly accentuated by chandelier Swarovski jewellery created by Cape Town jewellery designer, Dagmar Jungbauer.

“I have created the jewellery to enhance and beautify the specially designed garments,” says Dagmar. “I believe jewellery is an extension of a person and each finely crafted piece not only needs to enhance the garments but must also capture the spirit of the wearer.”

“We know Tatum will proudly represent South Africa at this year’s Miss Universe and our good wishes and thoughts will be with her,” says Sue Klerck, Marketing Executive, Sun International. “South African beauty queens have always drawn media attention; mainly for their poise and beauty. Nevertheless only one Miss South Africa has ever held the coveted title of Miss Universe and that was Margaret Gardiner in 1978. Her beauty, glamour and unmistakable warmth made her a sure winner.”

“Tatum is unusually beautiful and her Indian ancestry gives her an exotic allure. Her elegant figure and height affords her the advantage of being able to model clothes well. She has a vibrant personality that perfectly complements her beauty,” says Sue.