Miss Universe 2025 Armenia Costume Sparks Fierce Debate

The Miss Universe contest has once again brought controversies, and Armenians did not stay on the sidelines.

Peggy Garabekyan, the Armenian-American model and Miss Universe Armenia 2025, presented a national costume at the international pageant that sparked intense debate. Critics argue it strays far from traditional attire, while the creators say they sought to blend multilayered elements of Armenian culture.

Public opinion is split: some see the costume as a bold, modern interpretation of identity, while others view it as tasteless. Designer Aram Nikolian notes that costumes in such competitions often resemble masquerade-style creations, and the Armenian presentation was even considered unusually modest. He adds that society frequently focuses on insignificant things while ignoring real values.