Miss Dominican Republic Kimberly Castillo will be wearing a dress featuring the Virgin of the Highest Grace's image when she represents the typical wear for her country at the Miss Universe competition

The Virgin of the Highest Grace is a portrait of Virgin Mary in a nativity scene, and she is known as the patron saint of the Dominican Republic

Castillos dress was created by designer Leonel Lirio, according to Hoy Noticias. It is an intricate look, as there are a few different kinds of fabric and lots of details. Castillo will wear a lace veil, and the image of the Virgin is will be on the front of the dress

Lirio said he was inspired by the Virgin of the Highest Grace because Castillo hails from Higüey, where the Virgin is found inside the Basilica.

The Virgin of Highest Grace is a symbol of humility. She represents the poor, needy and those who find light in the darkness through faith.

"This has been the basic inspiration for the realization of this [dress]," Lirio said. "The technique used for this design is the digital sublimation printed in the tissue, formed by the planes, like the original concept of the altarpiece that currently sits in the Basilica, built in her honor in the east region of the country."

The design of the dress and the hand-embroidery were done by Lirio, but the headpiece and the silverware were created by Luis Riva..

Castillo has received backlash for her outfit, with some saying it shows a lack of respect. According to Telemundo, Castillo has spoken out about her outfit choice and said her intention was never to offend the religious community of her country, but some don't believe she should be personifying the Virgin of Highest Grace at a beauty pageant.

The Miss Universe 2014 beauty pageant is on Jan. 25, 2015.

Related