Miss International 2026: Venezuela’s Valeria Di Martino Showcases Wayúu Weaving Heritage in Traditional Costume

Fashion Desk, Delhi Magazine: Venezuela’s representative at Miss International 2026, Valeria Di Martino, has brought the traditional weaving culture of the Wayúu community to the international stage through a colourful costume inspired by the indigenous people of northern Colombia and Venezuela.

Di Martino shared photographs of the outfit on Instagram, describing it as a tribute to the women who preserve the traditional weaving practices of the Wayúu community.

The costume features bright colours, floral motifs, geometric patterns, decorative tassels and an elaborate golden headpiece. Its design draws inspiration from traditional Wayúu tapestries, known for their distinctive patterns and cultural meaning.

In her Instagram caption, Di Martino explained that weaving is considered a sacred language among the Wayúu people, with knowledge passed down from mothers to daughters.

Costume Designed Around Wayúu Traditions

The outfit was created by Venezuelan designer Nidal Nouaihed, according to coverage by Venezuelan media. The design incorporates the traditional geometric patterns known as Kanasü, which are an important part of Wayúu textile art.

The golden headpiece is inspired by the traditional status and appearance of Wayúu princesses, known as Majayüt. The overall look combines traditional textile references with high-fashion styling.

Valeria Di Martino also showcased another colourful look inspired by Venezuelan culture during the talent show at Miss International 2026. Read more about her Venezuela-inspired talent show outfit.

Di Martino also referred to the legend of Walekerü, a mythical spider associated with the origin of Wayúu weaving. According to the cultural tradition described in her post, this knowledge has been passed through generations of women.

Traditional craftsmanship continues to influence modern fashion, including jewellery trends. Readers can also explore our guide to the evergreen trend of pearl jewellery, which looks at how pearl accessories complement both traditional and Western outfits.

Who Is Valeria Di Martino?

The competition is taking place in Japan, with the national costume competition scheduled for November 14 and the final scheduled for November 25, 2026.

Through this costume, Di Martino has used the international beauty pageant platform to highlight the textile traditions and cultural identity of the Wayúu community.

For more stories on global fashion, celebrity style, lifestyle trends and culture, explore Delhi Magazine’s Lifestyle and Fashion Magazine section.

About the Author

BulBul Chauhan

Bulbul Chauhan is a writer from Sonipat, Haryana, with a keen interest in Indian culture, festivals, lifestyle, and fashion. A postgraduate from GIET, Sonipat, she enjoys exploring India's rich traditions, festive celebrations, evolving lifestyle trends, and the world of fashion. Through her writing, she aims to bring readers closer to cultural stories, everyday trends, and the traditions that connect people across generations.