Miss Earth Malaysia 2021, Nisha Thayananthan, appears on the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival in the mermaid-inspired gown designed by Minh Tuan Couture. Photo courtesy of Minh Tuan Couture

The evening gown, inspired by the graceful beauty of the mythical creature, is designed by Vietnamese designer Nguyễn Minh Tuấn. It features a seamless blend of emerald green and purple hues, with the silhouette resembling a fishtail, accompanied by translucent mesh fabric.

The standout elements of the design include intricate and meticulously crafted embellishments, incorporating exquisite details such as sparkling crystals, pearls and shimmering gemstones, adding an elegant and captivating touch.

The soft, sinuous pattern of pearls, along with the 3D structured details, accentuates the hips and brings vibrancy to every line of the design.

Notably, the delicate colour transition printing technique, from the intricate embellishments to the layered chiffon fabrics, has been skillfully executed, resulting in a harmonious and impressive overall look.

The design is an exquisite fusion of the graceful and enchanting beauty of a mermaid and the creative vision of fashion designer Nguyễn Minh Tuấn and the team at Minh Tuan Couture.

"I am thrilled to have the opportunity to return to the Cannes Film Festival with my new design. Every May, the world of cinema and fashion becomes more vibrant with the presence of glamorous gowns and outfits worn by celebrities at Cannes. I also hope that not only my own designs but also other Vietnamese brands will have the chance to shine on this prestigious red carpet," the fashion designer said.

Another two designs inspired by butterflies and Hà Nội’s iconic landmark, Turtle Tower, crafted by Minh Tuan Couture, were selected by Hollywood star Caylee Cowan for her appearance in Cannes last year.

Nisha Thayananthan, 31, has participated in many prestigious beauty pageants and won Miss Earth Malaysia 2021. She is the only representative from Malaysia to make it to the top 20 in the history of Miss Earth and won the highest place for Malaysia in a beauty pageant under the 'big six' international competitions.

Thayananthan is a surgeon currently living and working in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and Ireland. She has been lots of awards including Inspirational Doctor of the Year 2021 Award, Outstanding Student of the Year 2019, presented by Prime Minister Razak of Malaysia, Asian Volunteer Expert Award, presented by the UK, Honorary Award from Pahang Charity Organisation and is a UNEP Ambassador. VNS