News24 | SA’s Lebohang Raputsoe stuns in Swarovski-studded baobab costume at Miss Supranational

Miss Supranational SA Lebohang Raputsoe in her National Costume.

• Lebohang Raputsoe dazzled in a baobab-inspired costume at the Miss Supranational National Costume preliminaries in Poland.
• The intricately designed dress features 26 400 Swarovski stones and a stunning baobab tree headpiece.
• Ahead of the grand finale, Raputsoe urged South Africans to vote for her to secure a spot in the Top 12.

Lebohang Raputsoe captivated the audience at Wednesday’s Miss Supranational National Costume preliminary with a breathtaking design that celebrated South Africa’s iconic baobab tree.

Raputsoe is currently in Poland, where she is among 66 contestants from around the world competing for the title this year.

Ahead of the prelims, the 26-year-old shared on Instagram that she is excited to represent the nation, share her story, and “showcase the incredible dedication, hard work, and talent that went into creating this masterpiece!”

Designed by Hollywood Costumes, the dress features an impressive 26 400 Swarovski stones. Its sleeves are crafted from flowing blue fabric, featuring bold white patterns. Complementing the ensemble is the headpiece, a stunning representation of a baobab tree, complete with an intricately detailed trunk and foliage.

Miss Supranational SA shared a video of Raputsoe walking the stage on Instagram.

“The Majestic Baobab - Tree of Life, a blend of African soil, beauty, landscape, culture, and legacy,” reads the caption.

“26 400 Swarovski stones later show the immaculate work and artistry of women and creatives in our country as we unite in telling the story of the ‘Oh Majestic Baobab’.”

In May, it was announced that former Miss South Africa top 12 finalist Lebohang Raputsoe will represent the country at the upcoming Miss Supranational competition. The announcement came after the Miss South Africa organisation withdrew from the international pageant with no plans to renew its licence.

Shortly thereafter, Bokang Montjane, a former Miss South Africa titleholder, announced her appointment as the new national director of Miss Supranational South Africa.

EXPLAINER | Miss SA exits Miss Supranational as Bokang Montjane steps into local leadership

Raputsoe, an HR professional currently pursuing her PhD, has been in Poland since 9 June, where she has been participating in various events and preliminary rounds.

Her preliminary gown was designed by Jose De Canha and featured a structured bodice adorned with beadwork.

Ahead of tonight’s grand finale, where Harashta Haifa Zahra will hand over the crown to her successor, Raputsoe wrote on Instagram: “I am taking another big leap of faith tonight. And I am fully trusting in the Lord with all my might, heart, and soul.”

She also appealed to South Africans to vote for her in the confidence round. “Those votes will count towards making the Top 12 tonight. We can do this; let’s show our patriotic power. I certainly need you to lift me!”