Former Miss Universe Zozibini Tunzi Weds in 700-Hour Custom Dress
Zozibini Tunzi’s Dream Wedding Features a Handcrafted Gown and an Intimate Ceremony
Zozibini Tunzi, the stunning former Miss Universe, has officially tied the knot in a breathtaking custom wedding dress that took over 700 hours to create. The South African beauty, who won the Miss Universe crown in 2019, married her longtime partner, Luthando Bolowana, in an intimate ceremony on March 22, 2025. The wedding, held at Belair Pavilion in Cape Town, was a dreamy celebration of love, fashion, and craftsmanship.
Tunzi, known for her elegance and grace, was stunned in a custom wedding dress designed by Vietnamese fashion designer Phan Huy. The gown, adorned with intricate beaded flowers, was a masterpiece of artistry and dedication. Meanwhile, Bolowana looked dashing in a cream suit jacket and black trousers, perfectly complementing his bride’s radiant look. The couple’s love story, kept private until now, was finally shared with the world in a heartfelt Instagram post.
The wedding was documented in a beautiful video by Cinastage, capturing every emotional moment—from Tunzi walking down the aisle to Bolowana’s teary-eyed reaction. The former Miss Universe expressed her joy, writing, “Husband and Wife. A place so safe and sure. Here we are—Home.” The custom wedding dress, a symbol of love and artistry, became the centerpiece of this unforgettable day.
A Fairytale Wedding at Belair Pavilion
The couple chose the picturesque Belair Pavilion in Cape Town for their special day, surrounded by close friends and family. The venue, known for its lush gardens and elegant architecture, provided the perfect backdrop for their romantic ceremony. Guests were treated to an intimate gathering, filled with love, laughter, and heartfelt moments.
Tunzi’s custom wedding dress was the highlight of the event, showcasing Phan Huy’s exceptional craftsmanship. The off-the-shoulder gown featured semi-sheer detailing and hundreds of hand-beaded flowers, each meticulously crafted by a team of artisans. The veil, adorned with over 300 organza flowers, added a touch of ethereal beauty to the ensemble.
The designer revealed that despite Tunzi’s busy schedule, the dress fit perfectly during the first fitting—a testament to the precision and skill of his team. The bride’s radiant smile as she walked down the aisle confirmed that every hour spent on the custom wedding dress was worth it.
The Making of the 700-Hour Masterpiece
Phan Huy, the creative genius behind Tunzi’s gown, shared the intricate process of designing the custom wedding dress. The project took three months to complete, involving multiple stages and a dedicated team of artisans. Each floral detail was hand-cut and shaped, with over 14 types of beads and stones carefully incorporated into the design.
The 3D floral branches on the dress were crafted by four skilled artisans, ensuring every element was flawless. Huy expressed his honor in being chosen to create such a significant piece, stating that the gown was a labor of love. The custom wedding dress not only reflected Tunzi’s impeccable style but also celebrated the artistry behind high-fashion bridal wear.
Tunzi’s choice to wear a wedding dress by an international designer also highlighted her support for global craftsmanship. The gown’s unique floral patterns and delicate beadwork made it a true work of art, setting a new standard for celebrity bridal fashion.
A Love Story Kept Private—Until Now
While Tunzi has always been private about her personal life, her wedding marked a rare moment of sharing her joy with the world. Her Instagram post, captioned “22/03/2025
,” introduced Bolowana as her husband, sparking an outpouring of love from fans and fellow celebrities. The couple’s chemistry was evident in every photo and video from their special day.
The emotional ceremony included touching moments, such as Bolowana tearing up as Tunzi walked toward him. Their first kiss as husband and wife sealed their union, leaving guests in awe of their love. The former Miss Universe later described their marriage as “a place so safe and sure,” emphasizing the deep connection they share.
Tunzi’s custom wedding dress perfectly mirrored the elegance and uniqueness of her love story. From the intricate details to the flawless fit, every aspect of the gown symbolized the beauty of their journey together.
A Wedding Video to Remember
Cinastage, the team behind the couple’s wedding video, captured the magic of the day in stunning detail. The footage included aerial shots of the venue, behind-the-scenes preparations, and the emotional ceremony. Fans were given a glimpse of Tunzi’s final moments as a bride-to-be before she stepped into her new role as a wife.
The video highlighted the grandeur of the custom wedding dress, showcasing its movement and intricate details as Tunzi walked down the aisle. Bolowana’s emotional reaction added a touching element to the visuals, making it clear that this was a day they would cherish forever.
Tunzi’s decision to share these intimate moments with her followers allowed fans to feel like part of the celebration. The video, paired with her heartfelt caption, made it one of the most memorable celebrity weddings of the year.
Why This Wedding Stands Out
Tunzi’s wedding was more than just a celebrity event—it was a celebration of love, culture, and artistry. The custom wedding dress represented the merging of South African elegance with Vietnamese craftsmanship, creating a gown that was both personal and universally stunning.
The couple’s choice to keep their ceremony intimate reflected their desire for authenticity. Unlike many high-profile weddings, theirs focused on genuine emotions rather than extravagant displays. Every detail, from the venue to the dress, was carefully selected to reflect their unique love story.
As a former Miss Universe, Tunzi has always been a symbol of grace and empowerment. Her wedding continued that legacy, proving that true beauty lies in love, craftsmanship, and meaningful moments. The custom wedding dress was not just a fashion statement but a symbol of a new chapter in her extraordinary life.
A Dress as Unique as Their Love
Zozibini Tunzi’s wedding was a breathtaking celebration, made even more special by her custom wedding dress. The 700-hour masterpiece by Phan Huy will undoubtedly inspire brides worldwide, showcasing the beauty of handcrafted elegance.
From the emotional ceremony to the stunning visuals, every aspect of the day was unforgettable. Tunzi and Bolowana’s love story, now shared with the world, serves as a reminder that true happiness is worth celebrating in style.
For those dreaming of their own fairytale wedding, Tunzi’s custom wedding dress sets a new standard for bridal fashion—proving that when it comes to love, every detail matters.
