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Beauty pageants are contests that focus on judging and ranking people on their physical attributes. Controversial events that folks either find empowering or objectifying. Whatever your opinion is, we can all agree on one thing – the shows are always pretty stunning. 

The competitions came to be around the 19th century, with the first-ever Miss America contest being held in 1921. Nowadays, such events are not as popular as they might've been before – however, some organizations do stand out.

Despite the fact that beauty pageants are mostly focused on women, nowadays, many organizations host contests solely for men. For instance, Mister Global – a competition that has been taking place in Thailand for nearly 8 years – has once again amazed folks with their national costume competition.

More info: Mister Global

BP got a hold of Mister Global, and asked them to reveal more about the competition: "the national costume competition is a major highlight of the contest. There are a lot of pageants and people from around the world waiting for this, as it's one of the most exciting sections. We can see and learn about fashion culture from different countries through a national costume, designed and presented through a contestant that represents their country. Besides, we have a very talented photographer, David Ryo, who makes the national costume portraits more interesting."

Moreover, Bored Panda has managed to reach out to Pradit Pradinunt, the CEO of Mister Global, and asked him to tell us more about the contest: "the first Mister Global pageant was initially held in Pak Chong city, as a publicity event. The pageant gained fame and since then has been held in fascinating places around Thailand, developing into a leading international male pageant. Throughout the webcast, contestants are judged in four categories: fashion wear, swimwear, evening wear and interview."

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Pradinunt then added: "the men who participate in the Mister Global system, yearly inspire others to make an impact on social causes. The Mister Global pageant provides the winner and contestants with a global platform through committed partnerships with companies, sponsors and brands. During his reign, the winner is given the tools to personally and professionally enhance others by providing charitable efforts to affect positive change, all while increasing awareness of environmental causes. Mister Global pageant has become a grand slam male pageant on its 3rd edition. It is a fast growing pageant and one of the most awaited events of the year".

#5

Korea

Korea

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Kitsune Nocturne
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Very handsome, with a subtle and understated strength to it. I love the contrast of the fabrics chosen.

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BP also asked the man to describe what is it like being the president of Mister Global, to which he said: "as the leader of the Mister Global Organization It has been a challenging and not an easy job since our founding in 2014. We have been in contact with national directors and contestants from around the world. There are differences in language, culture and time. In addition, we must take these matters into consideration when organizing a pageant. Diversity really matters. And the contest itself must be an event that adds value to society around the world and inspires the new generation. And we as an organization learn more from contestants too".

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#9

Philippines

Philippines

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For folks who aren't that familiar with beauty pageants and Mister Global in general, Pradit Pradinunt said: "to make it easier to understand, we are like other beauty pageants – Miss Universe or Miss World, but in male version. We have an activity during the pageant where contestants spend some time together, learning news and promoting the host city's tourism and charitable awareness. Preliminary interviews, swimwear competition, national costume and evening wear competitions which are entertaining and exciting. But we are not only an 'entertaining event', we are doing something that can inspire people around the world, especially the younger generation".

#10

Mexico

Mexico

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Moezzzz
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2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My husband is Hispanic. Gonna show him this and see if he'll wear something like it lol

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Lastly, the CEO gave a piece of advise to those who'd like to participate in male beauty pageants: "I would like to invite all of the people from around the world to open their minds and look at the male pageant in a different way. Male pageant is not just sexy men competing but something more than that. Also who wants to compete? This is not just competing, it's activities full of fun, friendship and once in a lifetime experience where you may be the one who can inspire people to come forward to do something different, and maybe even change the world."

#15

United Kingdom

United Kingdom

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Amy Doyle
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2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I love all the colorful vibrant outfits and then you get the UK. Still nice though.

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#18

Cuba

Cuba

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Nathaniel
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I am not saying it is a bad look by any means, he pulls it off well, it is just in comparison to the other offerings? 1/10 for effort.

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#22

Romania

Romania

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#23

Panama

Panama

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llsewer avatar
Jaguarundi
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That beadwork is so intricate and beautifully made! The cat-face on the chest piece is a work of art, as is the necklace. Incredible!

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#25

Spain

Spain

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llsewer avatar
Jaguarundi
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The materials and craftsmanship in the costuming is so wonderful! Even the slippers are spectacular.

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#26

South Africa

South Africa

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kayrose avatar
RoseTheMad
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Ok, this just kinda looks like something you'd see at a pride parade though ngl

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Persephone
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Most have a native and cultural background, but there are just a few I struggle with understanding, although it could be bc of my own ignorance! This is one I don't understand the cultural relevancy of, but I'm always open to being educated!

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Mattewis88
Community Member
2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is by no means close to anything traditional for us... wtf was this designer thinking? Closest I guess could be if they're trying to resemble a King Protea but its a streeeeetch. Rather put him in two tone Khakis as its more traditional for caucasian South Africans if they were afraid of appropriating the black South African culture.

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AW
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

everybody calm down, there's an explanation! "In the words of South African President Mr. Cyril Ramaphosa: " Gender-based violence is a male problem. So men need to step up and fight South Africa's shameful scourge."... I often times speak about gender-based violence and femicide, and as I have previously said, it is not all men, but all women. All women has at some point been scared, intimidated or threatened. All women knows someone or knows of someone who has been affected by GBV. And sadly has been a victim themselves. ... My national costume represents the King Protea, South Africa's national flower. Embracing both the feminine and masculine. I want to encourage all men to be better and do better and empower all women by providing them with a place they are safe and free to live the life of their dreams. At the end of the day a king can't be a king without the strength of his queen. "

zselyke_szekely avatar
UpupaEpops
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I love the message but... Surely there would have been better ways of conveying it.

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zselyke_szekely avatar
UpupaEpops
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What the f**k is this? 😅 great fairy costume, but it's in no way South African.

amyj avatar
AMY J
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

WHAT. How does THIS represent South Africa? No man....

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Blaze001sa
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I like it. Immediately thought of the Protea. The crown and hints of green are lovely.

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Lucky2BAlive
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Ummm ever have that moment where so many comments roll through your noggin that you just cannot choose just one? Yup. There right now.

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Dietcocoabean
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The comment by AW gives a very good explanation of this costume choice, if you haven't seen it.

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Anne Van Staden
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm south african and I have nooooo idea what he is wearing or what he is representing

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Lollipop Girl 🇺🇦
Community Member
2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Woah, I know the outfit doesn't represent SA's culture, But that cape is gorgeous.... tho it would look better if they'd ironed it

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Emma London
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is smart, as it would be offensive to present a white dude in an actual South African native garb.

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29Pandas
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

South African native here... umm... what even is this?! Never seen anything like it in SA!

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Amy Doyle
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Love it but as soon as I saw this I immediately though 'fairy goddess' 😅

vthart avatar
Viv Hart
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This costume is in NO WAY South African, a typical outfit would be tribal dress, either Zulu or Xhosa, as an example.

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Lucky2BAlive
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Went to the wrong audition. Didn’t get the lead in the all male remake of Frozen, however, did get the lead in the amulet film The Not So Little Mermaid?

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Kyra DarkStar
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Culture appropriation. Pretty sure the white South Africans never dressed this way.

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Zitronella
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Calm down. Gone are the days when men weren't allowed to wear pink suits. Anyone who blasphemes about the female appearance here comes out as an out-of-date thinking person. Don't you think so?

marshafredell avatar
Lovin' Life
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Beautiful attire. Looks like a fairy costume but I'll take him

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Susan
Community Member
2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What the hell? Everyone looks hot. I feel bad that I'm listing after these guys. This guy? Playing dress up with his small Nieces is the vibe I'm getting

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Eb
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't know what it represents but I could totally see myself entertaining at home in that.

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Molly Block
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I just can't take this guy seriously. Blame it on the pink tulle.

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Tammy Manning
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

mmm How is this representing South Africa? Where is the traditional? We have so many diverse cultures with the most beautiful bead work, embroideries, fabrics, patterns and colours. This looks nothing like a traditional costume of SA? It looks like he would wear that at the Carnival. Not sure what the designer was thinking. They could have pulled elements from all the cultures and created something beautiful and unique, that would have been the best representation.

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Julia El Cee
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

South African here: That is definitely NOT South African. Like RoseTheMad said, that's the only context I'd see this working. The fabric and cut are not traditional anything.

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Jo Davies
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You show a South African man this and he would donner you! Nope.

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Victor Botha
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What utter bullsh!t. I'm from Soutth Africa and this is NOT the national costume of our country. Not even close. None of these are true representations of their national costumes, they are catwalk costumes that reflect nothing of the actual national costumes of the country they're supposedly representing.

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UpupaEpops
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The Romanian is. It's from the Bistrita region. Actually, the real deal is even more OT.

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Jessi Lovely
Community Member
2 years ago (edited)

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White South Africa 9.1% (through colonisation) black 76.4%, the rest is mixed, Indian etc. Just putting it out there for awareness. This man is drop dead gorgeous tho and looks gay so I’m all the way here hahahaha But also the country of melanin yo, lets gooooo that pink would POP against chocolate skin have you SEEN Valentino’s new pink collection GAWD

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Maiun
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

'Looks gay' wtf? If he was in a suit would you think he looks gay? Stereotyping much?

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#28

Brazil

Brazil

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Priscila Pedrosa
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Omg! This is a reference to Northeast of Brasil, my homeland! I just loved it !

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#30

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico

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Note: this post originally had 33 images. It’s been shortened to the top 30 images based on user votes.