Miss Puerto Rico Universe raved about how “fantastic” Walter Mercado was

Seeing the documentary ‘Much, much love’ about the life of legendary astrologer Walter Mercado (1932-2019) caught the attention of Puerto Rican queen Estefanía Soto, not only because of how ‘fantastic’ she was on a physical level, but also because of her guts to defend a different style.

That reaction of astonishment and admiration that the Netflix production aroused is what Miss Universe Puerto Rico wants to provoke as soon as she appears on the stage of the international competition wearing the quintessential costume Joshuan Aponte made for her in homage to the famous forecaster.

I think part of the idea was right to bring a little bit of that collective memory to those who know him, but to spark the interest of a young generation that is very active in social issues and has a genuine commitment to what is acceptance and the freedom of every human being. So if they didn’t know him, I hope they feel that intrigue to know who he was and join that connecting message that Walter carried, ”explained the young graduate with a master’s degree in intercultural mediation from the University of Leuven. in Belgium.

‘I love how fantastic he was, that androgynous face. That permission that was given to be who he was at a time when in society, because there were still many taboos and he was not allowed to be free and was exposed at a time when, in fact, he was often the target of ridicule, and he was a very brave figure to me “, Hero.

The typical costume presented at the Tapia Theater yesterday consists of a piece in violet and gold colors, representing mystery, spirituality, wisdom and nobility, as well as light, creativity, abundance, wealth and power. The striking sleeves evoke the lusciousness of Mercado’s unique style, while a wide slit in the skirt accentuates the beauty’s slender legs.

This piece is complemented by a cape that emphasizes the phrase popularized by the astrologer: “Much, much love.” Approximately 86,400 hand-placed Austrian crystals were used for this.

The crown of gold jewelry and stones represents the 12 constellations and the stars. It also includes 78 individual pieces, one for each city on the island, plus six last quarter moons that represent the quest for the sixth Miss Universe crown for the island.

The candidate said her idea to honor Mercado’s legacy was immediately well received by the local competition organization. Image consultant Clark Ivor was the first to tell.

“(I told him) I think it would be a great inspiration for the typical costume, something different and above all something universal. I think part of what also caught my attention in being able to wear him in a typical costume was that (Mercado) transcended what Puerto Rican identity and culture are. It’s literally a universal message and I’m going to the universe, so it was great, and they embraced it, ”he said.

Denise Quiñones, director of Miss Universe Puerto Rico, said she was just so impressed with the documentary about the astrologer that it seemed right to acknowledge him.

“Since he told me it looked great, I felt it was a slightly different concept and the best part was that I was also done watching Walter’s documentary and that I had the same sense of pride in the figure he represented . for Puerto Rico and worldwide for so many people, and all its message of love, unity and acceptance, ”stressed the actress, singer and former international beauty queen.

The pandemic challenged her

Not having the chance to have regular rule, but rather extraordinary given the constraints of the COVID-19 pandemic, Estefanía Soto discovered new ways to get closer to her countrymen and prepare from a distance.

I am very proud because I think I have met the challenge of reinventing myself and showing that we are able to continue to do what we are passionate about, even in times of crisis; that it is only worthwhile to focus and find creativity, what it takes to reinvent yourself “, he claimed.

The Miss Universe pageant will take place on Sunday, May 16 from the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida.

On a physical level, Soto is putting the finishing touches on the details regarding the makeup and hairstyle that will complement the final dress, the designer of which has already been selected. On an emotional and intellectual level, she is ready to present herself as “a woman with a strong stride, free, fresh and proud of what she is.”

He added, “that it is an image that inspires every human being, not just women, every human being to seek his own ‘self,’ and as Walter says, follow that embrace of identity and who we are.”