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SASHES AND TIARAS.....MISS UNIVERSE 2017 National Costumes: My TOP 20!

Kimono Diva: Miss Universe Japan Momoko Abe wows the audience at the Miss Universe 2017 National Costume Presentation, Planet Hollywood Las Vegas


             Photos Courtesy of Missosology Facebook Page, HO/The Miss Universe Organization



In the run-up to Sunday night's Miss Universe 2017 Beauty Pageant Finals, the 92 contestants (Yes, NINETY TWO!) have been participating in pageant-related events, photo-ops, rehearsals and of course, actual competition events. One of these--not really associated with who eventually wins the Miss Universe crown, but still A FAVORITE of Pageant Fans--is the National Costume Presentation.






Kimonos, Sequins, Mirrors and Feathers--Miss Universe 2017 National Costumes Presentation, Planet Hollywood Hotel & Casino Las Vegas


This past Sunday was the much-anticipated "Miss Universe 2017 National Costume Presentation", which showcased the "National Costumes" of the 92 contestants. The show usually takes place on the "big stage" but I assume the stage wasn't ready (or was it already being used by Britney ?) since it took place on the Mezzanine of the Planet Hollywood Las Vegas Hotel & Casino. Well, the show happened and here are my TOP 20 FAVES from the Miss Universe 2017 National Costumes, beginning with Number One:







No. 1: Miss Universe Japan Momoko Abe--Momoko's National Costume for Japan BROUGHT THE HOUSE DOWN! She wore a costume that started as a Ninja Warrior--all in black--which then (after a a slight tug-and-pull from her hand at the shoulder), quickly became a FABULOUS brightly printed Kimono Dress. I don't know how many times she had to practice that to get it right but, it was FLAWLESS and brought "Oh No She Didn't" Oooh's & Ahhh's from people who forgot to read my BLOG HERE. It should win The Best National Costume, if there is such a contest and if it isn't judged by the "public" or internet.









2. Miss Universe Venezuela Keysi Sayago: I loved this costume when I previewed what the Miss Universe contestant's would wear as their National Costumes HERE and I still love it. So much so, that it made my No. 2 Spot. This design--by Venezuelan designer Alejandro Fajardo (who also designed her evening gown)--was inspired by the Venezuelan Woman--a "Mirrored Warrior". When she comes out, she opens up her "wings" to show off the Venezuelan flag, like a peacock's fabulous feathers. The costume represents strong, independent women--fair and balanced--intuitive, spiritual and above all, free.





3. Miss Universe Myanmar Zun Thansin: Zun wore this very massive costume which included not just her dress, but her accompanying STAGE! The costume was inspired by traditional Burmese folk orchestra which involves many instruments including drums and gongs. Folks: She literally brought the WHOLE Hsaing Waing STAGE WITH HER! It was all designed by Dr. Thazin Kin.







4. Miss Universe Canada Lauren Howe: Lauren stunned the audience with her Canadian "Queen of Ice" costume. The design was inspired by the Canadian Winters in the mountain tops of the Rockies. Check out all those elaborate and gorgeous sequins, feathers, icicles...heck, even the heels of her shoes are made to look like SNOW! Bravo! The costume was created by Bismark Martinez.









5. Miss Universe Costa Rica Elena Correa: Elena's bright and bold feathered costume is celebrating Costa Rica's  Pre-Columbian Gold Museum in the capital city, San Jose. This costume--designed by Nicaraguan designer Erick Bendaña--features golden peacock feathers and many, many crystals. This was probably THE MOST IMPRESSIVE of those very popular Pre-Columbian feathered costumes favored by the Latin American/Caribbean contestants; a STUNNER for sure!







6. Miss Universe Thailand Maria Poonlertlarp: Maria's costume represents an ancient story depicting the existence of thunder and lightning. Designed by Prapakas Ansusingha (headdress was created by Toi Marilyn), Maria is playing the God of Thunder and brought along a doll depicting the God of Lightning. The entire design is pretty spectacular and I would DIE to be able to touch the fabrics and sequins!











7. Miss Universe Guyana Rafieya Husain: Rafieya wore this golden bedazzled costume symbolizing the World's largest single drop waterfall, known as the "Jewel of Guyana". Designed by Zara Khan, the costume features 20,000 crystals and 100 yards of crystal strands, which depict the waterfall. The rooster plumage adds a fabulous exclamation point to the entire look.





8. Miss Universe Vietnam Loan Nguyen: Loan wore this brightly colored costume which uses the traditional Vietnamese Ao Dai dress as a starting base and then takes details such as the conical hats and color combinations inspired by local festivals.The costume was designed by Nguyen Huu Bihn and was VERY IMPRESSIVE. So much so, it made the No. 9 Spot in my Top 20.







9. Miss Universe Russia Ksenia Alexandrova: Ksenia wore this stunning ballgown of a costume inspired by Russian Gzhel pottery/ceramics. The design features hand-painted flowers and delicate rhinestones and that glorious traditional Russian folk headdress. Everything about this was Russia Perfect! This costume should be re-vamped as part of a fabulous "Nutcracker Ballet" for the "Mother Gigogne" dance number, where all the kids come out from underneath!







10. Miss Universe Indonesia Bunga Jelitha: Miss Universe Indonesia chose this costume to highlight the plight of the Orangutans. Titled the "Warrior of the Orangutan", the costume tries to raise awareness of deforestation and the impact it is having on the natural habitat of the Orangutan. The look was designed by Indonesian designer Rinaldy Yunardi and features recycled "rattan", gorgeous sequin work and a faux fur vision of the beautiful Orangutan on her back (see photo above, right).





11. Miss Universe Guatemala Isel Suniga: Isel wore this costume which brought lots of "Oooh's & Ahhh's" from the audience in attendance for its colorful design and the fact that her back kite/wheel tuned! The costume was inspired by a tradition in her country where people fly kites over cemeteries to promote peace and scare off evil spirits as well as the Festival de Sumpango/Festival de Barriletes Gigantes. This was quite fabuloso!















12. Miss Universe Laos Souphaphone Somvichith: Souphaphone's traditional costume featured gorgeous Laotian silk fabrication and paid homage to the Laotian Loy Krathrong "Festival of Lights". The contestant was very referential when she did her presentation, adding to the uniqueness of her look. Before she arrived in Las Vegas, the Miss Universe Laos Organization had put out that this would be her National Costume:




But...at the last minute, it had been swiped for the "Festival of Lights" one. Did she make the right choice?






13. Miss Universe Nicaragua Berenice Quezada: Designed by Jorge Salazar Caliz, this colorful costume is named "The Slopes of Volcano Mombacho". The area where the volcano is located at is one of the 78 protected areas in Nicaragua and served as the inspiration for this costume, showcasing the variety of flora, fauna and minerals that are abundant in the volcano's area. Mombacho has more than 700 different plants registered including many orchid species. The costume is very colorful and certainly one can see the flora and fauna in it with all those flowers and feathers. It was one of my favorites in my "Preview of Miss Universe 2017 Costumes" BLOG HERE, and now it made my Top 20 Favorites!









14. Miss Universe Cayman Islands Anika Conolly: Annika's gorgeously colored costume represents the Cayman Islands Parrot, the national bird of the islands. The Cayman Islands parrot is a subspecies of the Cuban Amazon Parrot, known for its bright colors. I think the costume is made fabulously, using sequins, feathers over a glittery "nude gown" to really pay homage to this beautiful bird.







15. Miss Universe Mexico Denisse Franco: Denisse's costume was inspired by Frida Kahlo, of course, as one can see from the image above. The costume is  based on the traditional dress "La Tehuana" from the Isthmus of Tehuantepec in the state of Oaxaca. The dress is known for its colorful design and artisanal hand-done embroidery. I loved this costume and homage to Frida by Miss Universe Mexico; she had the drawn-in eyebrows, the artists brush, palette and the flowers on her head Kahlo was known for. Many people on the web (of course!), supposedly have been criticizing Denisse and the costume because (wait for it!)...she wore THE CORSET ON THE OUTSIDE, as opposed to tucked under the skirt. Ayyyy Dios Mio!! I guess these people forgot that these "National Costumes" are "inspirations" and creative visions of the designers and not necessarily have to be EXACT traditional versions; go to a shop or museum for that. The Miss Universe National Costume Presentation is not for 100% exact traditional wear--there are sequined and feathered BODYSUITS trying to represent BIRDS here for heaven's sakes!

















16. Miss Universe Trinidad and Tobago Yvonne Clarke: Yvonne got my attention with her very bright feathered and sequined costume. This look was inspired by the Cocrico--also known as the Tobago pheasant--the only game bird found in the island of Tobago, known for its color, long tail and "quaint" (read: Annoying!) morning calls.





17. Miss Universe Puerto Rico Danna Hernandez: Made by hand with the help of an electric generator because there was  no electricity (!), this costume for Miss Universe Puerto Rico depicts the vivid color of red representing the happiness and passion of Puerto Rico. Designed and made by Jaer Caban, the costume is inspired by the Royal Poinciana--also known as "The Flamboyant Tree", the red flowers can be seen in the back "Wings" of her costume. And naturally, she's proudly holding a sequined flag of Puerto Rico.











18. Miss Universe Spain Sofia del Prado: Inspired by the Spanish artist Salvador Dali, the costume incorporates some of his most iconic works and images including his famous mustache, the melting watches from "The Persistence of Memory" and "Landscaping With Butterflies" paintings, the "Mae West Lips" as well as "Eye of Time" jewels. I thought this was a cool "artistic" homage to an iconic Spanish genius.





19. Miss Universe Philippines Rachel Peters: In the No. 19 spot, I had to add Rachel Peters Miss Universe Philippines for simply looking like A SEX BOMB in her "national costume". When she stepped out onto the stage, I was like "Someone give her the SEXIEST National Costume Award NOW!". Her costume was inspired by the Sarimanok--or "Golden Chicken"--a legendary bird of the Maranao people from Mindanao. The bird is supposed to be a symbol of fortune for the Maranao people. Dubai-based designer Val Taguba designed the golden swimsuit and overskirt and Jojo Bragais designed the knee high shoes. While it might not have been such a showstopper like Miss Universe Japan's or Myanmar's "Entire Burmese Orchestra Stage" costume, it was still HOT HOT HOT!









Lastly...





20. Miss Universe Peru Prissila Howard: To round out my Top 20 national Costumes of Miss Universe 2017, I wanted to add another golden sexy look--this time from Peru. Prissila wore a Gold Inca Empress costume, entitled "Warrior of the Sun: Queen of the Incas". The look represents the strength, respect and knowledge of the ancient Peruvian woman. The gold represents the Sun God of the Incas. The costume was designed by Beto Pinedo and is meant to show the power of women.



**Which one is YOUR FAVORITE Costume?? Is Your FAVORITE on my Top 20 List here?



And don't forget about my NEW "The Pageant Coloring Book"! Where you can create your very own Evening Gown Competition with 25 of my hand-drawn Pageant Queen illustrations. Click HERE to purchase NOW on amazon.com:

ICE STYLE.....2017 Internationaux de France Grand Prix of France COSTUMES: MEN

Suited Man: Georgia's Moris Kvitelashvili doing his Short Program at the 2017 Internationaux de France Grand Prix of France, Grenoble France


In my last post HERE , I discussed the LADIES COSTUMES from the 2017 Internationaux de France Grand Prix of France. So, naturally, it's time for the MEN to get the "Nick Ice Style" take.







Alexander Samarin of Russia: Alexander was the only male from  Russia to compete at the 2017 Internationaux de France/Grand Prix of France and for his Short Program to Moonlight Sonata performed by E.S. Posthumus and I'm No Angel (cover of Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata) by Era, he wore this costume above. I liked this blue and black costume, especially the top. The design featured several gradations of blue --along with a small nude illusion panel and sheer/black panels with "branch"-like details...







I thought those black details were great and wonderfully placed--especially on his upper torso where the cameras would focus during a lot of his skate. Keeping the vibrant blue colors at the top also was a wonderful stage--or shall I say "ICE"-impacting touch!









Free Skate to La Naissance de Yaha by Saint-Preux, The Unforgiven III by Metallica and House of the Rising Sun performed by Dave Evans--This costume was a bit of Rock & Roll, a bit "Punk" and a but OH NO IS THAT A "ROSS DRESS FOR LESS" BELT???!!! I liked the maroon-colored solid/sheer top with the faux leather belt strap details and I got the point of the costume in terms of his music. But...THAT BELT!!!??? Why Oh Why can't Figure Skating Costume designers come up with an alternative? Or at least, be creative enough to design a belt that goes with the costume--maybe one just like the faux leather straps on his top? Seriously...Is it that difficult?







Moris Kvitelashvili of Georgia: For his Short Program to Feeling Good by Leslie Bricusse, Anthony Newley performed by Michael Buble, Moris donned this gray/silver and black costume. The look featured a fitted open jacket with stand-up band collar, vest and band-collar white shirt--and yes, black pants. I thought the fit and style were nice and complimentary to his lean physique. I also liked the dégradé-like beading details, especially on the front of the jacket as well as vest, collar and pocket flaps...














The black oversized jewel buttons were also quite fab!






Free Skate to Radioactive, Dream, and Believer by Imagine Dragons--On the other hand, I wasn't so much a fan of Moris' Free Skate costume. It looked a bit too all over the place/mish-mash'y. There was Ultra Suede-like fabrication, patches of faux leather, zippers, rhinestones and a "Rasta"-like flag on his shoulder. Here's an image I found when I Google'd the music he skated to:






Sooooo, maybe his costume was inspired by this? Maybe???








Misha Ge of Kazakhstan: Misha Ge is one of my FAVORITE male figure skaters. I love his skating but I especially LOVE how he BOWS after his skate like a Bolshoi Ballet Dancer! Oh, and yeah, he also embraces fab costumes. For his 2017-2018 Short Program to Ave Maria by Giulio Caccini performed by Ikuko Kawai, Misha wore this look above. It is a bit "Game of Thrones" Medieval-like in its colors, details and macabre red-and-black details. I liked the asymmetry of the draping and ruffles as well as the "Are those birds and blood on his chest" imagery, and I can't help but add my fondness to his low-slung sequined "triple belted" top. It was sexy yet a bit 90's Retro Fab.









Free Skate to Meditation (from "Thais") by Jules Massenet--In my Ice Style post for the 2017 Rostelecom Cup HERE, I talked about Misha's costume for his Free Skate. While I liked it--the golden/violet/silver sequins were nice and ombre shaping on his top was pretty--I just wasn't a fan of the nude illusion panel I saw here:










Misha Ge of Uzbhekhistan in his Free Skate at 2017 Rostelecom Cup 


But...




Here it is above at the 2017 Internationaux de France Grand Prix of France. Did he get rid of that illusion panel? Yes he did! In fact...it looks like a completely new top. Re-fit and ready for the rest of the very important Olympic Season! Thank you Misha Ge!


**UP NEXT: The PAIRS and ICE DANCE COSTUMES HIGHLIGHTS of the 2017 Internationaux de France Grand Prix of France!



And don't forget about my NEW "The Pageant Coloring Book"! Where you can create your very own Evening Gown Competition with 25 of my hand-drawn Pageant Queen illustrations. Click HERE to purchase NOW on amazon.com:

ICE STYLE.....2017 Internationaux de France Grand Prix of France COSTUMES: LADIES

Maria Sotskova Debuts her new Short Program Costume--2017 Internationaux de France Grand Prix of France--Grenoble France


The 2017 Internationaux de France was held this past weekend in Grenoble France. Previously known as Grand Prix International de Paris (1987-1993) , Trophee de France (1994-1995, 2016), Trophee Lalique (1996-2003) and Trophee Eric Bompard (2004-2015) (take your pick of a sponsor!), this was the fifth of six I.S.U. Grand Prix of Figure Skating Competitions in advance of the Grand Prix Finals. As you may know, I have covered all the previous Grand Prix events of the season here--on my ICE STYLE BLOG so just click on "Ice Style" in the header for ALL the reviews.  Now, it's time to discuss this Grand Prix of France Costumes and I'll begin with the LADIES COSTUMES that I have not discussed in the past Grand Prix events/competitions.







Polina Edmunds of USA: This violet colored sequined jumpsuit costume is what Edmunds wore for her Short Program to Palladio by Karl Jenkins performed by Escala. I had never seen this costume before and so, naturally, when she stepped on the ice, I was like "OOOHHH...OK...Polina is giving a ONE PIECE JUMPSUIT!" Polina is a tall skater (compared to other ladies--She's 5'6" and Ashley Wagner for comparison is 5"3") and the jumpsuit can make her look even longer and leaner. This costume featured beautiful rhinestones jutting out like sun-rays--or crowns, take your pick--in a solid/"nude" panel design. This is definitely a "different" look for Polina and...








I liked the color and sequin work. The "open" nude illusion back was quite seductive  as well.








Elizabet Tursynbayeva of Kazakhstan: Elizabet skated her Free Skate to The Prayer performed by Celine Dion, Andrea Boccelli in this lilac costume. I liked the costume; the ombre-dyed look featured a gathered upper torso with exquisite silver sequin embellishment. The costume looked EXPENSIVE for sure. If there was any critique, I just felt the ruching in the front torso looked heavy--especially for her TEENY TINY frame. I am sure they were trying to give the illusion of a bust when there isn't one (she's 17 and 4'10"!) but maybe they should take away some of that gathering and make it...flatter...but still with a little ruching?! The sequins, however were GORGEOUS!














Maria Sotskova of Russia: Maria wore this pink costume for her 2017-2018 Short Program to Swan Lake by Petr I. Tchaikovski, and IT WAS BEAUTIFUL! I loved this elegant costume featuring a pink chiffon base with 19th Century-like design details reminding me of a Romanov Russian Princess. The rhinestone-studded necklace, bracelets and bodice embellishment were superb! I also loved that back. I was thrilled to see that this was a NEW COSTUME for her.  At the last Grand Prix she competed at-- 2017 Skate Canada International --she wore this:





And I remembered that she had worn THIS SAME COSTUME for last season's Free Skate to different music (not "Swan Lake"). I also said something to the effect of "either her team is being cheap or I.S.U. isn't giving the Russian skating federation enough funds. In addition, I also wished that she would have worn A NEW COSTUME. As it turns out, I guess her new costume just wasn't ready. 



Time for another Costume Redux...kind of:





Mae Berenice Meite of France: I have discussed Mae Berenice and her costumes for this season before at the 2017 Rostelecom Cup of Russia--click HERE--so when I saw this look at the Grand Prix of France for her Free Skate to Les Nocturnes de Chopin and Happy by C2C, I was like "WAIT! There is something different!". I remember her lady-like Peter Pan collar and rather basic white and black costume (at least for her!) but those rhinestones were NOT THERE! I swear!...








I was right! On the left is the costume at 2017 Rostelecom Cup and on the right is what she wore this weekend in France. Rhinestones on the once-basic Peter Pan collar--as well as on her cummerbund, front button placket and wrist bands. Back when I saw the costume at the Rostelecom Cup I thought it just needed something. I guess someone must have read my blog (wink! wink!).


**UP NEXT: THE MEN'S COSTUMES of the 2017 Internationaux de France Grand Prix of France!



And don't forget about my NEW "The Pageant Coloring Book"! Where you can create your very own Evening Gown Competition with 25 of my hand-drawn Pageant Queen illustrations. Click HERE to purchase NOW on amazon.com:

SASHES & TIARAS.....MISS WORLD 2017 Finals! Winner + Top 15 Semifinalist's GOWNS RECAP!

World Queen: Miss World India Manushi Chhillar is the new Miss World--Miss World 2017 Finals, Sanya China





Most Photos Courtesy of Miss World Official Facebook Page


Saturday night were the Grand Coronation Finals of the 67th edition of Miss World, held in Sanya People's Republic of China. 118 contestants from all over the world (the most of any international beauty pageant this year!), competed for the coveted title of Miss World. The beautiful Manushi Chhillar , who represented India was crowned at the end of the competition as Miss World 2017.








Crowned: The outgoing Miss World 2016--Puerto Rico's Stephanie Del Valle crowning Miss World India Manushi Chhillar as Miss World 2017--Miss World 2017 Finals, Sanya China









You Won! Miss World 2016 Stephanie Del Valle of Puerto Rico congratulates Miss World India Manushi Chhillar on winning Miss World 2017--Miss World 2017 Finals, Sanya China





World Costumes: Miss World 2017 contestants during the "Dances of the World" segment--Miss World 2017 Finals, Sanya China





World Dancing: Miss World India (center) --and eventual Miss World 2017--during the Miss World 2017 Dances of the World segment--Miss World 2017 Finals, Sanya China




Incredible India: Manushi stands 1.75 m (5' 9"), is 20 years old and until now, held the Femina Miss India 2017 title. Both of her parents are doctors and she was pursuing (at least until she dove 110% into being the Most Beautiful Woman in India--and now the World!) a medical degree at a Women's Medical College in India. I have a feeling she might be putting that on a temporary (if not permanent) hold.






Six Beauties--Miss World winners from India: (Clockwise, left to right) Reita Faria (Miss World 1966), Aiswarya Rai (Miss World 1994), Diana Hayden (Miss World 1997), Manushi Chhillar (Miss World 2017), Priyanka Chopra (Miss World 2000), and Yukta Mookhey (Miss World 1999). 


She also becomes the sixth Indian woman to be crowned Miss World. It had been since 2000 (when Priyanka Chopra was crowned Miss World) that an Indian woman had bagged the title. And if that is any indication--looking back at past winners who have become A-list Hollywood and Bollywood actresses like Priyanka and Aishwarya Rai--then Manushi is probably destined for World stardom.





Time to discuss...THE EVENING GOWNS!!! First, I HAVE to BOW DOWN to the outgoing Miss World 2016 Stephanie Del Valle of Puerto Rico and HER GORGEOUS "Goodbye" Evening Gown:




Turquoise Queen: Miss World 2016 Stephanie Del Valle (right) with Miss World 2013 Megan Young (R), co-host of the Miss World 2017 Beauty Pageant--Miss World 2017 Finals Sanya, China


When Stephanie came out in this glorious blue gown, I just about fell off my couch: INCREDIBLE! This gown was EVERYTHING!!! The design featured a light blue-over-nude sequined slightly fit-and-flare gown with azure chiffon back capes and thousands upon thousands of the MOST EXQUISITE crystals in deep blue, turquoise, and silver. The off-the-shoulder style gown fit her to perfection and was OUTSTANDING at any angle! It was THE DEFINITION of a fabulous 360 degree gown...








Side Gown Diva: Miss World 2016 Stephanie Del Valle, crowing the finalists at the Miss World 2017 Finals, Sanya China




The gown was the INCREDIBLE work of...





Puerto Rican designer Carlos Alberto: From the looks of it, it was inspired by that iconic Miss World crown and the colors in it. He used thousands of Swarovski crystals to create the very impacting jeweled details and embellishments that really made this gown ONE OF THE BEST IN A LONG TIME when it comes to pageant gowns. I really, really hope someone paid him A LOT of money for this, because YOU KNOW this will be knocked off by less expensive pageant gown manufacturers and he will not make a dime out of that--and we also know that just making a gown for free for a Miss World or Miss Universe isn't going to get 10,000 orders! Soooooo, let's just hope he was compensated VERY HANDSOMELY for this gorgeous one-of-a-kind gown! He's worth every dollar. Stephanie looked like like an Azure Caribbean Queen in this. One of the BEST handing-over-the-crown gowns IN A LONG TIME!








The Top 15 Semifinalists--Miss World 2017 Finals, Sanya China


Now, it is time to talk about the Miss World 2017 Top 15 Semifinalist's Gowns--starting with the eventual WINNER...





Miss World India Manushi Chhillar: Manushi wore this powder pink sequined gown from Indian-based designers/brand Falguni and Shane Peacock . The gown fit Manushi perfectly and was "Miss World Appropriate" with its delicate pink color, no "Hoochie" super high slit and nothing too exposed. While it might not have been extraordinary or "take-my-breath-away" Couture Fab, there was really nothing wrong with it; it was, as I suggested, Miss World Perfect.

Score: 9.10







Here are the rest of the Top 15--from Best Gown to OK--of the Miss World 2017 Top 15 Gowns (well, Top 14, not including Miss World India who I already discussed above):



1. Miss World Indonesia Achintya Nilsen: Achintya Milsen won the top award for her gown at the "Miss World--World Designer Competition & Fashion Show" with THIS gorgeous gown...so it was no surprise that she would also land as my Top Fave in Evening Gown at the Miss World 2017 Finals. The white mermaid-shaped gown she wore here was from Indonesian designer Priyo Oktaviano and was fit to perfection! The shimmery stiffened fabrication made the gown an architectural stand-out and featured side "cut outs" and a slimming torso silhouette. The subtle gold sequins down the front made for a nice touch.

Score: 9.50







2. Miss World Kenya Magline Jeruto: Kenya's representative--for me--had to be THE PRETTIEST WOMAN in the pageant! So I was happy when she made the Top 15. And happier when I saw her choice of gown; she looked chic and made her even prettier! I loved this pink sequined organza gown which featured a column dress with full overskirt. The pink color was just right against her GORGEOUS skin color and I loved the pointed sequin details especially on the upper torso and sleeves that really brought wonderful attention to that 3/4 shot. If there was any critique, it would be those black (Black??!! Really??!!) platform heels...with THIS color of a gown??? Oh huney. No. But I will overlook this detail only because she was so Lupita Nyong'o BEAUTIFUL!

Score: 9.30



3. Miss World India Manushi Chhullar: See my critique above.





4. Miss World France Aurore Kichenin: Aurore went the "Pageant princess" route with this very pretty white gown. The dress featured a full dress shape, gold paillettes, and a nice sweetheart neckline shape. Her styling was on-point with the gown (the up-do bouffant was just right) and her makeup as well as earrings were good. This contestant knew EXACTLY which pageant she was attending (not the va-va-voom Miss Universe huney!) and so she went with Elegant, Sweet, Virginal and Pretty. Good choice.

Score: 9.00





5. Miss World Mexico Andrea Meza: Andrea became the 1st Runner-up of Miss World 2017. She wore this white column gown which featured a sequined base with delicate silver and gold crystals. The strapless gown fit her well and was a good choice for her skin coloring and figure. Nothing extraordinary or Gown Fab...just safe...but I guess, that's not the name of the game when it comes to what these contestants wear for the Miss World. Obviously. Unless, you're giving up the crown like Stephanie Del Valle!

Score: 8.99









6. Miss World El Salvador Fatima Cuellar: This was the farthest a contestant from El Salvador has ever made it in Miss World so...Felicitaciones to her! Her pink colored column gown was pretty. Once again, she wasn't going to win the Supermodel of the Gown Fashion World with this. But yet, it was still a good choice. The dress had beautiful silver sequins enveloping her upper torso laid over iridescent pink fabrication. The length was right, the fit was good and she looked muy linda.

Score: 8.95





7. Miss World Russia Polina Popova: Polina wore this same red strapless gown with a paillette-covered overskirt for the "Miss World/World Designer Fashion  Show & Competition". I liked it then and obviously, still do now. The bold red is a nice color against her porcelain skin and blond hair. While it might look a teeny bit Christmas-y" to some people, I still get the nice gown impact. I just wish she had added a bit more volume to her hair. It was flat and lackluster.

Score: 8.90






8. Miss World South Africa Ade van Heerden: Take a guess what I am going to say? Yep: Pretty. The South African representative wore this baby blue sequined off-the-shoulder gown featuring plumage at the bottom. This was Pageant Nice. Nothing super chic, or extraordinary just "Pretty Pageant Gown 101". Been there-done that. But, it works for "Miss World" and the feather plumage was a nice touch at the hem.

Score: 8.50




9. Miss World South Korea Ha-eun Kim: OK, part of me is intrigued by this gown--the shape...the silver sequin detail. But...Ha-eun just keeps HOLDING the darn gown and all I want to do is SCREAM and say "DROP IT so I can SEE IT!!!" The blush color is nice and the fit looks great. It looks like an expensive NOT off-the-rack gown and I give her points for that. And yes, I still do love that silver sequined applique! But yeah: DROP IT and Own it like a Pageant Diva!

Score: 8.45





10. Miss World Nigeria Ugochi Ihezue: Ugochi won the Miss World Top Model title, which is understandable since she is like EIGHT FEET TALL (OK, just six feet+) and has the ideal size 2 model figure and...she's gorgeous! For the Miss World 2017 Finals, she wore this blue gown featuring rhinestone trim and sequined details and (GASP!) sexy side cut-outs! While I think she looks HOT, I think she might have missed the Memo that this wasn't Miss Universe but instead, Miss World. This was just TOO MUCHEY SEXY for the Miss World Organization. A) It wasn't pink. And B) There was too much skin exposed. My suggestion is that she save this for when she is reassigned to compete in a future Miss Universe Beauty Pageant. But, I still give her points for "bringing" the sexy to Miss World. Thank you darling.

Score: 8. 40









11. Miss World England Stephanie Hill: 2nd runner-up Stephanie Hill wore this baby blue colored gown featuring a column dress with a demure high neckline, flowing overskirt and sequined appliques around the midriff. It was pretty, had nice stage impact. Her side swept hair was also pretty (take note Miss World Russia!).

Score: 8.30





12. Miss World Jamaica Solange Sinclair: Solange also chose a blue color for her evening gown, but her blue was more vibrant, more "royal". The lace sequined dress featured a nude background, sweetheart scalloped neckline and upper neck/drop shoulder detail. The gown fit nice and the vibrant color was perfect for her. I just wasn't a fan of the lace front torso panel pointing to "that area" and the nude right underneath it. I would have liked it better if the sequined lace slowly went from heavy to light as it made it's way down to the hem.

Score: 8.15





13: Miss World Macau China: Congratulations for Miss World Macau China in being the first representative from that Chinese territory (formally a Portuguese colony) for making it into the Top 15 at Miss World. She wore this lilac-hued tulle and sequined gown. While I liked the ice-looking encrusted paillettes in the gown, the style looked a bit "clunky" on her, and she looked more like an Ice Dance Figure Skating competitor--as opposed to a Miss World contestant. And speaking of clunky...WHAT ARE THOSE TACKY WHITE PUMPS!!!??? #OhNo

Score: 8.00





14. Miss World Japan Haruka Yamashita: Sorry Miss World Japan but this was a Gown Fail. She's pretty and I get the whole "Miss World Demure" look but this dress looked like something one can find in one of those Santee Alley stores in Downtown L.A. It was soooo $199 Basic Prom. She also succumbed to the the Accessorized Virus (get rid of that necklace, those earrings...). And once and for all: LADIES!!! DROP THE DARN DRESS!!! On the good note, the bold color was nice.

Score: 7.50









15: Miss World Mongolia Enkhjin Tseveendash: Now, I'm a sucker for a big dramatic ballgown. If it is done well. This was just TOO MUCH and TOO BIG. The gown and all that fabric literally swallowed her up. She was just too covered up! It lacked the refinement or exclusivity of say, one of those UBER EXTRAVAGANT creations from Michael Cinco , for example. And the sequined appliques of butterflies (and are those branches?) looked a little like an afterthought. I get this as a wedding dress for a Mongolian Bride but not as Miss world evening gown.

Score: 7.45









EXTRAS: I wanted to end my Miss World Gown Recap on a more positive note, highlighting some Gowns that I thought were QUITE FABULOUS but from contestants that didn't make the Top 15. These three ladies made the Top 40 but afterwards, just stood in the background. All I wanted to do was pull them to the front and replace some of my not-so-favorite Top 15 Semifinalist's Gowns with THESE ladies! So....for that, they get a SPECIAL GOWN MENTION here:



Miss World Philippines Laura Lehmann: This was by far one of the BEST GOWNS worn by a Miss World 2017 contestant at this year's Finals! The style, the silhouette, the gorgeous DRAPING, the GLORIOUS color! This fabulous strapless ballgown was designed by Filipino designer Mark Bumgarner  and featured a coral colored silk satin organza ballgown shape with exquisite side fold draping and an open side front slit. This reminded me of those Good Ol' Days of Angel Sanchez/Guy Melliet Miss Venezuelas: Beautiful!....and the shoes!! TO DIE FOR!

Score: 9.90





Miss World Venezuela Ana Carolina Ugarte: Speaking of Miss Venezuelas, I LOVED this pink sequined gown worn by Miss World Venezuela Ana Ugarte. When I was watching the Miss World 2017 Beauty Pageant, and all the contestants were onstage in their gowns, I just couldn't take my eyes off of her! And this dress! I thought this was a Haute Couture Pageant Fab version of that "perfect Miss World dress"; Princess-like, Pink, Elegant, nothing vulgar or too sexy with a touch of drama...just right! I LOVED the sequined column gown but the star was the beautiful taffeta ballgown overskirt and the gathered midriff draped panels. Bellisima!

Score: 9.85





Miss World Vietnam My Linh Do: This is another one of those gowns that got my attention as I "surveyed" all the 118 Miss World 2017 contestants onstage. Now, you may ask, what got my attention? HELLO THE GOLD SPARKLY SEQUINS!!! At first I thought this was VERY "Showgirl" Too-Mucheey but...after seeing the other BORING and too-prissy Miss World gowns, I was like "Yep! LOVE THIS!!" She wore this gold sequined "nude" gown featuring a halter neckline, side front slit and golden feathers sweeping the train/hem. With her hair up, the nude pumps and cross earrings, I thought she looked pretty fab!

Score: 9.4



Now, after doing a little bit of web research I realized that those feathers were a "late" edition to the gown. How do I know? Exhibit A:






Miss World Vietnam 2017: Same Gown, pre-feathers.


Lastly...



Miss World Ukraine Polina Tkach: Polina wore this UBER grand ballgown for the Miss World 2017 Finals--as well as the Miss World "World Designer Fashion Show and Top Model Competition".  I thought this strapless blush-colored gown was impacting and definitely could be noticed from the "nose-bleed" section! The sequined netting-like fabric seemed luxe and overall, this had elements of a fab Haute Couture-style gown. If there was any critique, I thought the inner crinoline petticoat was too short. Look at the photo and see where it stops...like almost TWO FEET from the bottom of the outer gown! it doesn't make any sense. that inner petticoat should be almost to the floor so...the gown is completely sitting on it as opposed to partially. But other than that: Fab gown Miss World Ukraine!

Score: 9.3








CONGRATULATIONS Manushi Chhillar on being crowned Miss World 2017 and being the SIXTH representative from India who has won the coveted crown!...






And don't forget about my NEW "The Pageant Coloring Book"! Where you can create your very own Evening Gown Competition with 25 of my hand-drawn Pageant Queen illustrations. Click HERE to purchase NOW on amazon.com:

ICE STYLE.....2017 NHK Trophy Grand Prix of Japan FIGURE SKATING COSTUMES: PAIRS & ICE DANCE

Dance Fierce: Russia's Victoria Sinitsina and Nikita Katsalapov during their Short Dance--2017 NHK Trophy Osaka Japan


Finishing up my 2017 NHK Trophy ICE STYLE Costumes blogs, I have discussed the LADIES HERE , the MEN HERE and now it's time for the PAIRS and ICE DANCE Costumes. Some of the Pairs and Ice Dance skaters who skated at 2017 NHK Trophy--Sui and Han, Stolbova and Klimov, Virtue and Moir, and Hubbell and Donohue, for example--have already skated in some of the previous three 2017-2018 Grand Prix competitions/events and I have already covered them here in my blog. If you're wondering my thoughts on their costumes go HERE , HERE and HERE .







Now--it's time for the PAIRS and ICE DANCE costumes of 2017 NHK Trophy that I haven't discussed previously--let's start with the PAIRS:







Alexa Scimeca Knierim and Chris Knierim of USA: Alexa and Chris skated their Short Program to Come What May (Moulin Rouge soundtrack) wearing these costumes above. The color scheme stayed within a pretty lilac/lavender/purple category. Alexa's costume featured a beaded bustier-like corset-inspired costume giving hints of Nicole Kidman's in the movie/musical. What I really loved was Chris' look:








The subtle beading on Chris' neck was a nice touch, especially since there are so many close-ups of them while they are skating. I also liked the sheer softness of his top. 






Free Skate to Ghost - The Musical--For their Free Skate, Alexa and Chris wore these looks. they were less "costume-y" and quite classic and subtle. They were nice and I guess a good choice considering the musical accompaniment...well, at least the lilac-hued color story was similar to the Musical's posters!  Also.....



Alexa's costume reminded me of something Nancy Kerrigan might have worn and in addition, Alexa and Chris together reminded me of Gordeeva and Grinkov.







Kristina Astakhova and Alexei Rogonov of Russia: Short Program to Adagio For Strings by William Barber, Lacrimosa (from "Requiem in D Minor") by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and O Fortuna (from "Carmina Burana") by Carl Orff. These were great costumes worn by the Russian Pairs couple of Astakhova and Rogonov. There were elements of rawness and fight (mimicking the powerful music they skated to) plus the sweetness of the lightly dusted crystals and modernity of the asymmetrical hems. I also loved how both of their necklines were so similar and his costume looked like a perfect costume pair to hers. Speaking of her...










Love that open back: So Red Carpet/Runway Fab!


ICE DANCE:





Anna Cappellini and Luca Lanotte of Italy: Cappellini and Lanotte skated their fun Short Dance to Cha Cha: Kaboom performed by Ursula 1000; Samba: Skip to the Bip performed by Club des Belugas; and Samba: 1008 Samba. While most of the Ice Dance men are utilizing this Samba/Rhumba/Cha-Cha Shorty Dance to be Muy Caliente Sexy Hot with their costumes (sheer, plunging and tighter!) here, while still super tight fitting, Luca is all covered up!! And in all black! I get that Anna's fuchsia-and-silver colored costume makes a bold color statement alone but still, I just wish he didn't look like a valet about to take my car away. Her costume, on the other hand, is one of my favorites of the season! It is spectacular with the crystal beaded bodice and fuchsia ruffled skirt that is just the right length for her teeny tiny frame. In a way, by making him fade away, it highlighted her even more...which was probably the point!









Free Dance to Biongiorno Principessa (from "La Vita e Bella" soundtrack), Life Is Beautiful (from "La Vita e Bella" soundtrack) by Nicola Piovani, arranged & performed by Mi Loco Tango, and La Vita e Bella (from "La Vita e Bella" soundtrack) by Nicola Piovani arranged by Claudio Mandonico. Cappellini and Lanotte are known for their very Italy-centric Ice dances and this Olympic Season was no exception for their Free Dance. She wore an ivory colored dress with beaded top section and nude illusion neckline. I thought she looked quite Mumsy and matronly and I just did not understand the nude illusion neckline; she looked like one of the ten wives of a cult leader! I did like Luca's high-waisted pants-and-shirt costume. The pants were super tight which was a good thing, but the colors were SOOOOO drab. I get the whole We're-Italian-peasants-dancing-up-a-storm theme but still, I wish they didn't look so sad and uninspiring.





Misato Komatsubara and Timothy Koleto of Japan: For their Short Dance to Salsa: Ahora Quien by Marc Anthony; Rhumba: Ahora Quien by Marc Anthony; and Samba: Samba do Brasil (Radio Remix) by Bellini, these are the costumes the Ice Dance team representing Japan wore. Remember what I said about how PLUNGING and how SEXY these Ice Dance men were costumed for their Latin-inspired Short Dances...Exhibit A: Timothy Koleto. Look at him compared to turtlenecked Luca Lanotte. Anyhow--I liked Timothy's look as well as Misato's dress. Her black and gold costume was exotic and more Near East Empress as opposed to Hello Havana...but it was great for the music/program as well as fun and impacting.





Free Dance to Where Is It Written? by Barbara Streisand, Michel Legrand, End Credits (from "Sabrina" soundtrack) by John Williams, and A Piece of Sky by Barbara Streisand, Michel Legrand--Komatsubara and Koleto wore the blue and black looks above for their Free Dance. These were romantic and pretty costumes. The beautiful rhinestones on her upper torso looked like a starry sky and I loved how they went from blue to silver. And I also appreciated how he got some of those rhinestones on his top--as if while touching her...or just being near her...he was "sprinkled" with Swarovski crystal dust!







Oleksandra Nazarova and Maksim Nikitin of Ukraine: Well HELLO FABULOSA!!! For their Short Dance to Rhumba: Chuvirico (from "Wanted") by Perez Prado; Mambo: Cu-cu-rru-cu-cu-paloma (from "Mambo No. 5) by Perez Prado, Rosemary Clooney; and Mambo: La Pantera Mambo (Pink Panther Theme) by Henry Mancini, this Ukrainian Ice Dance team--and especially her!--went all out Cha-Cha Queen. While admittedly, this is on the more "Kray-Kray" side of the Fiery Hot Samba/Rhuma/Cha-Cha costumes the ladies are wearing, it was still A LOT OF FUN to look at! I loved the bold purple and gold fringe and how it literally wrapped around her leg. With so much going on with her, it was kind of a nice "fringe commercial break" to have him just in black with a purple tie! 





Lastly...









Victoria Sinitsina and Nikita Katsalopov of Russia: One word: SEXYLICIOUS! This Russian Ice Dance pair were oozing S.E.X. I'm surprised the ISU didn't give them a "Not appropriate to be viewed by anyone under 16" rating! For their Short Dance to Rhumba: Agua de beber by Al Jarreau; Samba: Balumukeno by Bonga Kuenda; and Samba: Batacuda Brasileira, they wore these looks above. Nikita was "comfy sexy" in his un-tucked gray/black shirt and tight pants; not much there to see. It was Victoria who was Muy Caliente in her attire--if you could even call it that; she was barely wearing anything! Victoria's costume consisted of a beaded bra top and two swaths of asymmetrically cut fabric...and that's it! I thought the side cowl drape was interesting and I was kind of fascinated how she just looked as if she went into a bin and wrapped a couple of fabric scraps around her and called it a day. But in closer inspection...








These weren't just any fabrics but this beautiful silver gray paillette encrusted silk chiffon! And Ladies and Gentlemen, can we just take a minute to look at her incredible and fat-free SIX PACK ABS of STEEL!!??? Even Nikita was like "OH DEAR!!!!"






Free Skate to Piano Concerto No. 2 Op. 18 and Vocalise by Sergei Rachmaninov--For their Free Dance, they went much, much, MUCH more subdued, which made sense, especially with their classical musical accompaniment. They stayed in the same gray/black color theme as in their Short dance but this time, Victoria got a little more fabric yardage for her dress. I liked the delicate look of her costume and the shimmering waistband. In terms of Nikita, I have to be honest and say that I just didn't really understand his "shredded" and ripped shirt I-just-came-from-the-Apocalypse vibe. I wished he was more elegant here. 

SASHES AND TIARAS.....Miss International 2017 Finals: Winner + MY TOP 10 BEST GOWNS!

First Ever--Miss International Indonesia Kevin Lilliana is crowned Miss International 2017, Tokyo Japan

Some Photos Courtesy of Missosology as well as Miss International's Instagram 


Tuesday night was the Finals of the 57th Annual Miss International Beauty Pageant , which were held in Tokyo Japan! I have already discussed 28 of the NATIONAL COSTUMES from the pageant's Opening "National Costume Parade of Nations" Competition which you can see HERE ...so now it's time for the BIGGIE: The Winner and THE GOWNS!!! 



First the WINNER:






INDONESIA!!!!! Miss International Indonesia Kevin Lilliana is Miss International 2017--Miss International 2017 Beauty Pageant Finals, Tokyo Japan


The winner was Kevin Lilliana , the contestant representing Indonesia. This is THE FIRST TIME that Indonesia has won a Miss International. In fact, it is the first time the nation has won the top prize of ANY of the Grand Slam "Big 5" International Pageants including Miss Universe, Miss World, Miss International, Miss Grand International and Miss Earth. The doll-like 21-year-old Lilliana is a professional model, attended Maranatha Christian University in West Java Indonesia and stands 1.77 m (5' 10"). She bested 68 other beauties from around the globe for the title.










Crowned Beauty: Outgoing Miss International 2016 Philippines' Kylie Verzosa crowns the new Miss International--Indonesia's Kevin Lilliana--Miss International 2017 Finals Tokyo Japan







Swimsuit Gal: Miss International Indonesia during the Swimsuit Competition of the Miss International 2017 Finals, Tokyo Japan.







International Queen and her Court--Miss International 2017, Indonesia's Kevin Lilliana (Center) with (L to R) 1st Runner-up Miss International Curacao Chanelle Wilhemina Maria, 3rd Runner-up Miss International Australia Amber Dew, 2nd Runner-up Miss International Venezuela Diana Croce, and 4th Runner-up Miss International Japan Natsuki Tsutsui



And now, THE GOWNS!!! First, who won "Best Dressed" and the Top Five Finalists (including the Winner) and then I'll discuss my List of TOP TEN BEST Gowns form the entire pageant...



Most Stylish: Miss International Indonesia Kevin Lilliana (the eventual winner of the ENTIRE thing!) got the "Best Dresser" Award which, just by the gown she wore--was VERY WELL deserved! So, it makes sense that I begin with Kevin--the Winner and her gown...and then I'll go through the rest of the Top 5 + my actual TOP 10 BEST GOWNS...







Haute Gorgeous: Miss International Indonesia wore THE BEST GOWN of the night which was so nice, considering SHE WON the top crown! I absolutely loved her aquamarine sequined gown designed by Ivan Gunawan. The dress--entitled "Thallasa: Mother of Sea" featured exquisite textured sequined applique only seen with the likes of Couture designers such as Elie Saab or Zuhair Murad...









Indonesian Sea Queen: The gown was inspired by the blue water surrounding Indonesia, featured a slight fit-and-flared column gown and beautiful silk chiffon sleeve capes. It was impacting even if she didn't have a fan blowing the chiffon out! Congrats to Kevin and especially her gown's designer! SUPERB!

Score: 9.98







1st Runner-up Miss International Curacao Chanelle Wilhemina Maria: Chenelle was the 1st Runner-up and this was her gown. The dress was VERY "Pageant Betty" and so was Chanelle's entire look--right up to her SUPER bouffant up-so hair! She is SOOOOO beautiful and looked like a Barbie Doll in this. I just wished her gown and style was a bit more chic and modern, but I get that it is Miss International and they like their beauty queens, perhaps more "Pageant Betty perfect". So...the pink/lace off the shoulder gown with chiffon back capes and "Pageant Betty" bouffant hair was...probably just right. But, for my take on the gown, it was just a bit too "old school" for me. But the length was right and the fit was nice.

Score: 8.00





2nd Runner-up Miss International Venezuela Diana Croce: Diana also wore a pink gown. Naturally. I'm sure the Miss Venezuela Organization knows what kind of look works with the Japanese Miss International Organization and this was just right. I have to admit that I wasn't a big fan of this dress. The gown featured gathered powder pink tulle in many tiers with silver crystal rhinestones accenting it. It was pretty and "Princess"-like but it wasn't Runway Fab or caused any Gown Gasps from me. It just hung on her without any impact. It was....flat.

Score: 8.50





3rd Runner-up Miss International Australia Amber Dew: This was a big surprise for me. I thought this was such a "Nothing Here To See" kind of pageant gown. The length was good but the top fit so weird (too high cleavage) and the white on such a super blond woman...well, not a good style choice. This--compared to what Miss International Indonesia wore??? Well, I cannot even discuss it: No Comparison. It's like a Ford vs. a Mercedes.

Score: 7.90







4th Runner-up Miss International Japan Natsuki Tsutsui: Natsuki wore this powder blue iridescent satin organza gown for the Finals of Miss International 2017. The dress featured a fit-and-flare "mermaid" lite silhouette and had white sequined applique and, if that wasn't enough, side nude illusion and back train overskirt. It was like an 80's doll gown costume; just dated and too "Pageant Betty". But at least it fit nicely and the length was right. And the saving grace? Natsuki! She was sooooo PRETTY! But, the gown was still dated and pageant tacky.

Score: 7.98



OK, now that we got the Top Five out of the way, time for my TOP TEN BEST LIST of Miss International 2017 Gowns:

My Number One is...



1. Miss International Indonesia Kevin Lilliana: I already talked about how STUNNING I thought this gown was so...

Score: 9.98





2. Miss International Lithuania Patricija Belousova: THIS GOWN. Was. Everything! I thought Miss International Lithuania's dress was so modern, so chic, so Haute Couture Refined. Loved it. Wish I knew who designed it to give them credit but I spent WAAAY TOO much time looking for that info. and I eventually gave up. Note to the ladies: PLEASE give DESIGNER credits on your Instagram and/or Facebook--even if you actually PAID for it! Otherwise, I give up. Anyhow...I loved this slate blue/gray ballgown and it was MY SECOND FAVORITE of the pageant.

Score: 9.95





3. Miss International Thailand Ratiyaporn Chookaew: This gown was flawless. The ivory crepe and nude tulle column design featured a center front slit, silver rhinestone sequins, sleeves and faux plunging neckline covered in nude illusion. The style was elegant and chic and the fit was perfect.

Score: 9.90





4. Miss International Ethiopia Bamlak Dereje: Miss International Ethiopia was one of the more model-beautiful contestants even though she didn't make the Top 15. I also liked her choice of evening gown. She wore this silver encrusted design featuring a column gown with a tulle backed overskirt. The crystal sequin fabric was absolutely beautiful and expensive looking and the style was Runway Fab. I also had no problem with the ankle length since she accessorized the look with those silver shoes. Her side-swept hair and minimal styling was on-point!

Score: 9.50





5. Miss International Laos Phounsap Phonnyotha: This golden colored gown was my 5th favorite in the 2017 Miss International Beauty Pageant. Phounsap wore this dress featuring gold satin crepe with beautiful gold and silver jeweled sequins in a halter neck style with blush colored back chiffon "falls". It was classic, elegant and Pageant Perfect!

Score: 9.30







6. Miss International Vietnam Huynh Thi Thuy Dung: This was an exquisite gown worn by Miss International Vietnam. The fit was perfect. The length was also perfect. And the style--especially the fit-and-flare gown with beautiful overskirt--was stage impacting. The blue sequined fabric looked luxe and I loved her chic center-parted chignon hairstyle.

Score: 9.10











7. Miss International Panama Darelys Santos: Designed by Venezuelan designer Julio Mora this red strapless gown was very Miss Venezuela but here we saw it on the Panamanian delegate...and it looked FAB! Darelys has an envious perfect figure--with her long lines and TEENY TINY waist/no hips so she's like a perfect clothes hanger. And this gown--especially the color and sequined torso detail--really made her a stand-out in the pageant!

Score: 9.05





8. Miss International El Salvador Fatima Mangandi: It's not every day you find a Miss El Salvador in my Top Ten Best Gowns List but there is a first for everything! I liked this lavender colored sequined gown for its perfect silhouette, fit and lovely upper torso detail. Muy Bien Fatima!

Score: 9.00





9. Miss International United Kingdom Ashley Powell: Ashley was one of the Top 8 Finalists and in fact bagged the Miss International Europe award. She wore this UBER mermaid-shaped pink-and-nude gown designed by Almodal Haute Couture by Leo Almodal Philippines. The dress could be considered very "Pageant Betty" for its silhouette and pink coloring but it fit BEAUTIFULLY and really made a strong Gown Statement. The flower applique was absolutely gorgeous as well! Ashley looked like a Pageant Queen fro my  #PageantColoringBook for sure!

Score: 8.95





10. Miss International Mexico Citlaly Higuera: Citlaly wore this royal blue ballgown for the 2017 Miss International Beauty Pageant Finals. The style was grand and very stage-impacting. The color was great for her as well as the silhouette. There were slight issues with the construction; the dress looked ripple-ly and maybe there were issues with the inner interlining which you can kind of see in above photo. But, the overall effect was impressive! And her waist looked SOOOOO teeeny tiny!

Score: 8.85














CONGRATULATIONS to Kevin Lilliana, Miss International 2017! And for being THE FIRST Indonesian candidate to get a TOP International Beauty Pageant crown! 




And don't forget to check out my NEW "The Pageant Coloring Book" to create your very own EVENING GOWN COMPETITION!! It is available NOW on amazon.com: Click HERE to purchase:


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SASHES AND TIARAS.....Miss International 2017 Finals: 28 NATIONAL COSTUMES Recap!

Most Haute Costume: Miss International Japan showing off her national costume--Miss International 2017 Finals, Tokyo Japan



Some Photos Courtesy of Miss International Facebook Page, Miss International Instagram and Missosology 


This Tuesday night were the Finals of the 57th Annual Miss International Beauty Pageant . Miss International--based in Japan--has been known as one of the Top Three "Grand Slam" of international beauty pageants and tends to be a little more "traditional" (than the sexier and more flashier Miss Universe) and has the motto of "Love, Peace and Beauty". The winner was the gorgeous representative from Indonesia. I will discuss the Finals and Gowns in a following post but for now...it's all about the National Costumes!



The 2017 Miss International Beauty Pageant begun with all 69 contestants in their national costumes in the tradition Parade of Nations National Costume Show....




China!--Miss International 2017 Finals, Tokyo Japan





Colombia!--Miss International 2017 Finals, Tokyo Japan





Ecuador!--Miss International 2017 Finals, Tokyo Japan


Here are 28 national costumes worn by the contestants of Miss International 2017 but let's begin with...The Winner of "Best National Costume":





Miss International Japan Natsuki Tsutsui: Miss International Japan won the "Best Costume" and it was 100% deserved! When she first walked out onto the stage in this, I just about fell off the couch and gave her (and whoever designed this) a standing ovation! This was a super-chic Haute Couture version of a Geisha Diva. There is just no other way to describe it!







Miss International Indonesia Kevin Lilliana: Kevin--who eventually won the crown of Miss International 2017--wore this colorful costume designed by Annisa Febby  @annisabanyuwangi and according to the description, it is MBOK JAMU GENDONG and the Ancient Secret Potion. In this costume, Kevin is a fabulously dressed potion seller. I loved the colors and the sequin applique work was EXQUISITE! If I was ever in Indonesia and saw someone on the street selling something with THIS costume...I would by WHATEVER she is selling!







Miss International Australia Amber Dew: Amber wore a costume featuring a white iridescent leotard with a tie-dye layered overskirt, a gold waistband and what looks like a depiction of the Sydney Opera House on her back. It's cute if not a little unrefined "happy hands at home"-looking.





Miss International Brazil Bruna Zanardo: Bruna went for the Rio Carnival Queen look with her gold and rhinestone-encrusted sleeved bodysuit and matching thigh-high boots. She looks like a fabulous baton twirler-meets-figure skater!

Miss International Belgium Virginie Philippot: For her Belgium costume, Virginie wore a gown with black sequined top section and canary yellow satin organza full skirt. The colors--at least the black and yellow--represent 2 out of the 3 colors featured in the Belgium flag--the yellow representing the yellow lion of Brabant; and the black is the black lion of Flanders and Namur. She looks pretty but not sure it's much of a "costume" per se.





Miss International Bolivia Carla Maldonado: Carla's costume consisted of a gold sequined bodysuit and an attached overskirt/cape in the same gold sequined fabric. The overskirt was also covered in hundreds of turquoise and aquamarine colored feathers. it was all topped off by a "Carnival"-like feathered mask. It was very festive and stage impacting.






Miss International China Jia Chi: this yellow silk brocade costume was one of the BEST of all the Miss International 2017 contestants. The design featured a perfectly fitted fit-and-flare style gown with a Mandarin-collared caplet, both featuring beautiful birds and flower embroidery. This entire costume was topped off with an elegant gold headdress. It was chic, runway fab and if you just took off the headdress, this would be a stunning evening gown alone! 





Miss International Colombia Vanessa Pulgarin: Designed by Sergio Perez Atelier--according to the lovely contestant, the colorful costume depicts the magical story of "Fura & Tena" which is part of the culture in the zone of Boyaca, an area rich in emeralds. Fura and Tena are two mountains situated over the river Guaquimay. Not sure what any of that means but I do love the scenes of butterflies and flowers and perhaps the river (the blue in her dress?). It's quite a beautiful costume for sure!





Miss International Curacao Chanelle Wilhemina Maria: The beautiful Chanelle (who won the 1st Runner-up title) wore this fun and vibrant costume depicting Curacao Carnival and the bright blue, pink and yellow colors one sees at the fabulous Carnival.





Miss International Dominican Republic Jennifer Valdez: Jennifer's costume is depicting the Dominican republic national football team and a sexy leotard/onesie version of the team's jersey. She bedazzled the actual futbol (soccer ball) and the number on her jersey as well as her "sweatband".





Miss International Ecuador Jocelyn Mieles: Jocelyn wore this design by Gustavo Otero representing the Diablada de Pillaro--an ancestral tradition of parades that occur from New Years day to the 6th of January, where everyone dresses as devils in spectacular masks. This was one of the most impressive of these "Parade/Carnival"-like costumes with the fire red color and gold details and those incredible "wings" that look as if they are on fire. Fabuloso!





Miss International El Salvador Fatima Mangandi: Fatima's costume was in line with the popular "Feathered Queens" popular with the Latin American contestants. Hers featured lots of neon green colored leaves on her wings as well as a standout headdress embellished with gold jeweled sequins. The costume pays homage to the flora, fauna and riches of the El Salvador rain forest.





Miss International Guatemala Ana Lucia Villagran: Mayan Empress was the theme of Miss International Guatemala's costume showing this elaborate and colorful wings, a gorgeously sequined bodysuit and THAT FABULOUS headdress! Oh, and if that wasn't enough, she's holding a golden mask with royal blue tassels. She looks like she should be on top of one of those Mayan pyramids, commanding an entire country!







Miss International Honduras Vanessa Villars: Here is another grand and feather-fab costume at Miss International 2017 Finals--this time from Miss International Honduras. I love the black and red  feathered "wings" with the indigenous-like gold and red motifs. The headdress as well as the rest of the costume on her body is elaborate and nicely done. I also appreciate that no stone was left un-turned in that she made sure her shoes and legs went with the rest of the costume.





Miss International India Ankita Kumari: India always brings it when it comes to making a costume statement (and why not?) and this one worn by India's Ankita Kumari was well done. The red with gold sequined paillette skirt is GORGEOUS (I want that hanging on a wall like art!) and of course, who doesn't appreciate a HUGE peacock feathered circular back "wing"??!! I do.











Miss International Mexico Citlaly Higuera: Inspired by the Aztec culture, Citlaly wore this (yes, another feathered costume!), focusing on the God Quetzalcoatl, designed by Oaxacan designer Manuel Medina. I liked the use of the Mexican flag's colors and the sexy depiction of the God...and those Coque/rooster feathers! Dios Mio!







Miss International Myanmar Sao Yoon Wadi: Miss Myanmar International 2017 National Costume is inspired by Chin Lone - a type of sport (translated as rattan ball) from Myanmar. Chin Lone is a widely played sport and has been a part of the culture for a long time. The description on the Miss Myanmar International Facebook Page goes on to say that "The beauty about playing Chin Lone is the sport itself is not a competition among the players but for players to perform their parts well and in unity in order to maintain balance. Therefore this National Costume dress is created with rattan replicating the shape of Chin Lone to imply the peace and unity - the essence of the sport which agrees with the nature of Miss International crown". It was designed by Ahlatt Lumyaung (sketch above) and personally, I think it's quite unique and fun!





Miss International Nepal Niti Shah: Niti Shahh wore this Traditional nepali costume featuring a full black skirt with gold embroidered deities, a gorgeous multicolored waist/hip accessory, silk brocade top and gold headdress.





Miss International Panama Darelys Santos: The tall and slim Panamanian beauty Darelys Santos wore a "Congo Queen" costume, inspired by the traditional dances from the Atlantic Coast. the traditional costume usually features a patchwork pollera skirt of different fabrics, but here she instead gave it a Pre-Columbian Feathered Empress twist. I like it!





Miss International Peru Tiffany Lopez: Tiffany wore a costume depicting an "Allegorical Costume" created by the Institute of Nina Design showcasing the riches of the Inca rulers with the gold and turquoise details.

Miss International Paraguay Tatiana Rolin: Tatiana's gorgeous costume features a bodysuit/jumpsuit in stretch tulle covered in hundreds of crystals and fabric appliques depicting the flora and fauna of Paraguay and super vibrant sequined headdress reminiscent of a very regal bird. She looks like a Principal dancer/Performer for a fabulous Cirque du Soleil show!







Miss International Philippines Maria De Leon: Maria wore a fantasy/modern version of the Filipiniana Terno. The steel gray colored costume was designed by Cary Santiago  and featured an intricate Sarimanok (a mythical bird) headdress (above photo) to match. I thought this was a unique take on the traditional Filipina dress but one still saw the references with the "Butterfly" sleeves. The elaborate embroidery was quite stunning and I liked how it was followed throughout, even down to the shoes. I just wished it was more fitted. A fit-and-flare--or mermaid-shaped version--of this would have been PERFECT!





Miss International South Africa Tayla Skye Robinson (with Miss International USA Shanel James): Tayla's costume was a a "Peacock Queen" and featured LOTS and LOTS of peacock feathers, a jeweled sequined upper torso, more peacock feathers as a stand-up back collar and a sweeping royal blue iridescent overskirt.





Miss International Spain Elizabeth Ledesma: Elizabeth wore a very España/Sevillana dress featuring a bubblegum pink lower torso, nude illusion with gold applique top section and those fabulous Seville-style ruffles. Oh, and of course, she carried a fan! I thought she looked gorgeous and the costume was almost like a "Barbie Doll" version of a Miss Spain.





Miss International United Kingdom Ashley Powell: This had to be one of the, shall we say "unusual' costumes of Tuesday night's Miss International 2017 Beauty Pageant. Miss United Kingdom was literally CARRYING a red with faux ermine trim caped GOLDEN LION! And huney, I was like "yep! I TOTALLY get it! She's from Great Britain!". In fact the costume is inspired by the Royal Arms of England, a coat of arms showcasing lions. I think it's definitely VERY original and at the same time, showing something of the UK culture. Listen, at least she's not carrying a plate of fish & chips on her back! Then again, that could be fabulous too...if the fish was completely done with golden Swarovski crystals!







Miss International USA Shanel James: Before you say "Is she Wonder Woman?" or "Is she Wonder Woman AND an Eagle?"...The beautiful US contestant, in fact, wore a costume paying homage to the Department of Defense, which is where she works at! This is why you see eagle-like wings, the stars, the arrows and olive branches. In addition, James said that when else would she also have the chance to do her best "Victoria's Secret Wings Model" look other than the Miss International National Costume competition! The great costume was created by Pixton Design Group based in Charlotte North Carolina.







Miss International Venezuela Diana Croce: Diana wore this Liquiliqui (typical "black tie" ensemble for men in the llanos (plains) of Venezuela. The costume--involving a jacket, shorts and boots--was designed by Venezuelan designer Douglas Tapia and created in Maracaibo. The original idea came from Osmel Sousa--the "Tsar" of the Miss Venezuela organization. He didn't want an elaborate costume since she would be traveling many, many hours to get to Japan from Venezuela and wanted her to have something easy to pack and comfortable to wear. The look was inspired by a concert piece from Juan Vincente Torrealba, a Venezuelan harpist and composer. The costume was done in black and white using paillettes and French Guipure lace with pearls and black crystals simulating the typical architecture of colonial Venezuela. Fusing architecture, music and a tribute to the women of the Venezuelan llanos/plains seems like a nice costume for the country's contestant.



Lastly...



Miss International Vietnam Huynh Thi Thuy Dung: As you can see above, Miss International Vietnam wore this feathered fantasy costume featuring oversized wings, exaggerated extra long sleeves, replicas of swans in her front torso AND...Lucite heel SUPER platforms! Now, I get the White Swan costume and hints of an Ao Dai somewhere in this but...those shoes were just TOO MUCHEY. Even for a costume.



**UP NEXT: The GOWNS of Miss International 2017 Finals!



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ICE STYLE.....2017 NHK Trophy Grand Prix of Japan FIGURE SKATING COSTUMES: MEN

Sequined Swan Boy: Adam Rippon of USA during his Free Skate at 2017 NHK Trophy Grand Prix of Japan, Osaka Japan





Top Three: (L to R) Adam Rippon of USA (Silver medalist), Russia's Sergei Voronov (Gold), and Israel's Alexei Bychenko (Bronze)--2017 NHK Trophy, Osaka Japan


In my last 2017 NHK Trophy ICE STYLE post HERE , I discussed the LADIES COSTUMES highlights (and Mirai Nagasu's costume change!), so now, it's time to talk about the MEN and their costumes and how much I LOVED Adam Rippon's new Free Skate look...But, let's start with Israel's boy, Alexei Bychenko:





Alexei Bychenko of Israel: To his Short Program for this Olympic Season, Alexei went full-on "Israeli Proud" with Hava Nagila (Jewish Folk Song). His costume for this staple song at Jewish weddings and bar/bat mitzvah celebrations involved black pants, a loose/un-tucked white shirt and a beige unbuttoned vest. It's a look that works for the music but I wish it was just a teeny bit more interesting.









Free Skate to Pagliacci by Ruggero Leoncavallo--For his Free Skate, Alexei continued the black/white/beige color theme he started with his Short Program. This costume for "Pagliacci" looked more appropriate for "Hava Nagila" and I wish he would have worn this! (it was a more "fancier" look). Well, at least he didn't go full-on Pagliacci clown:











Deniss Vasiljevs of Latvia: For his Short Program to Recondita Armonia by Giacomo Puccini, Deniss went Period costume, staying slightly to the "Tosca" costume script, which takes place in the early 1800s, during the "Regency Fashion Era". He wore black pants, black brocade vest with gray back, and a ruffled-and-lace men's blouse with fluffy necktie. I liked this look and especially, keeping the interest up top with the blouson sleeves and that nice jeweled pin.







Free Skate to Put the Blame On Mame by Doctor 3, Anyone to Love and Sway by Michael Buble--For his Free Skate, Deniss went for a "Lead Singer of a Band"-look with his shimmering costume. The look had tuxedo-like pants, dark open neck shirt and a bi-colored jacket featuring one gold side as well as a blue one. This was a "costume" that I could totally see Michael Buble wear in one of his concerts so it seems appropriate that this was Deniss' choice.





Dmitry Aliev of Russia: Short Program to Masquerade Waltz by Aram Khatchaturian. I loved this costume worn by Russia's Dmitry Aliev of Russia for his Short Program. The "Admiral"-like costume featured a red/maroon colored double-breasted snug-fitting stretch jacket, gorgeous collar and cuffs with sequined appliques and those great frilly epaulets. With the accompaniment of the sweeping music and this costume, I was almost transported to a fabulous ball in Imperialist Russia. 







Hiroaki Sato of Japan: For his Short Program to Terre-Merre (from "Totem" - Cirque du Soleil) by Guy Dubuc and Marc Lessard, Japan's Hiroaki Sato wore this above. If I hadn't known that the music was from "cirque du Soleil", I would have probably commented and said that his costume looked VERY "Cirque du Soleil" so....I guess, he was perfect! The striking turquoise and violet colors juxtaposed with the peacock feather-like details gave an air of a flora and fauna creature sliding through the ice as if it were a magical lake. 







Sergei Voronov of Russia: Sergei skated his Short Program to Adios Nonino by Astor Piazzolla. This is a Tango and therefore, I assume Sergei was going for a "Modern Tango" look with his red and black costume. The top was a bit odd with the different panels and I was especially confused about the nude-like ones. Was this supposed to be skin-colored illusion? And if so, why the odd placements in the midriff and neck area? he looked a little more "Tron" than Tango.





Free Skate to Sarabande Suite--This all-black look was a little better than his Short program costume--only because it looked sleeker and less like a just-out-of-fashion-school student designed it. I wished those "straps" on the shirt might have been studded in black Swarovski crystals and I'm not a fan of the gloves but...at least he DID NOT wear that tacky "Ross Dress For Less" 90s belt a lot of these male figure skaters cannot let go of! So, I am happy for the small things.





Jason Brown: I discussed Jason Brown in my 2017 Skate Canada International costumes blog HERE but if I am not mistaken, I think Jason (kind of) changed his costume...kind of! For his Free Skate to Inner Love by Maxime Rodriguez at 2017 NHK Trophy, he wore this beautiful stretch velvet blue dégradé top with silver sequined accents. For the pants, he donned dark indigo-colored stretch velvet pants. So...what was different? ....







Above was what he wore at his previous Grand Prix this season--at 2017 Skate Canada International--notice the pants; they MATCH the royal blue of his top. But in the new look, they're not matching so...I guess it's kind of a costume change. Which one do you guys like better? Darker or Matching Pants?









Adam Rippon of USA: Adam wore this "Rock & Roll" Flashy look above for his Short Program to Let Me Think About It (Eddie Thoneick Remix) performed by Ida Carr feat. Fedde Le Grand. I LOVED IT! Adam has been on a costume roll wearing SUPER TIGHT sexy tops with plunging necklines and see-through fabrications, and I am a big fan! A) Adam is like FAT FREE and lean as a toothpick so...he can do it! And B) It's refreshing to see something that is fun, flashy and NOT an all black boring look straight out of a department store. I really like the faux leather panels and the rhinestones accenting the top. Throw in that center front zipper and sheer stretch chiffon and Adam is ready to hit the dance floor! All that's missing is a FAB disco ball.







Free Skate to Arrival of the Birds ("Crimson Wing" soundtrack) by The Cinematic Orchestra

O by Coldplay--This is the same program music from last season but Thank Goodness, it was a different costume. Not that I didn't like last season's costume but THIS WAS GORGEOUS! The look--designed by Veretto Sport and designer  Braden Overett --included blue skin tight pants and a second-skin sequined top. That top was OUTSTANDING--like Figure Skating Haute Couture! There were hints of the sky and bird's wings (to go along with the music) but not so overtly like last season's feathered costume.



In case you are wondering, this is what he wore last season to the same program/music:








**UP NEXT: The PAIRS & ICE DANCE COSTUMES highlights from 2017 NHK Trophy!



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SASHES AND TIARAS.....Miss World 2017 World Designer Fashion Show: My TOP 15 GOWNS!

Worldly Gowns: Miss World 2017 contestants modeling designs of designers from their own nations at the 2017 Miss World "World Designer Fashion Show/Miss World Top Model Competition", People's Republic of China







Some Photos Courtesy of Miss World Official Facebook Page


The 2017 Miss World Beauty Pageant is taking place in the People's Republic of China with the Grand Finals happening next week on November 18th in Sanya China. Lots of pre-Finals competitions and events have been happening in advance of the final crowning night and earlier this week was one of MY FAVORITES: The Miss World "World Designer Fashion Show and Miss World Top Model" Competition.








Miss World 2017 contestants in their "Word Designer" gowns--Miss World Designer Fashion Show & Top Model Competition, China


The Miss World Beauty Pageant has a fabulous fashion show showcasing the contestants modeling gowns created by designers from their home countries and this year they continued the tradition with all the 118 contestants doing just that. The designs were judged and a special award is given to the "World Designer" whose design was judged the best. On the same night, 30 contestants were chosen to compete in the Miss World Top Model competition with the winner being fast-tracked to be in the Top 40. The Miss World 2017 Top Model was the 6 foot+ tall Miss World Nigeria Ugochi Ihezue. She was so tall that the gown she wore from a featured Chinese designer was VERY SHORT (see photo below!).






Miss World Supermodel: The winner of the "2017 Miss World Top Model Competition", Miss World Nigeria Ugochi Ihezue (2nd from left), with her Runners-up (L to R) Miss World Croatia Tea Nlinaric, Miss World Thailand Patlada Kulphakthanapat, and Miss World China PR Guan Siyu-- Miss World Designer Fashion Show & Top Model Competition, China


OK, now to more important matters: MY TOP 15 BEST Gowns worn by the "Miss World 2017" contestants for the 2017 Miss World "World Designer Fashion Show". I watched the video of the fashion show (watch at the end of this post)--showing all the 118 contestants in her home-designers gowns--and so I have to say that my criteria was based A LOT on how they modeled the designs and basically how they "worked it!"...






Too Typical and Boring...for Miss World Designer--(L to R) Miss World Rwanda Elsa Iradukunda, Miss World Ecuador Romina Zeballos and Miss World Uruguay Melina Carballo--Miss World 2017 World Designer Fashion Show/Top Model Competition


I also think of this "Miss World "World Designer" Competition/Fashion Show as a way to not just showcase the hometown designers but show some creativity that might be "unique", but still chic and stylish with an Haute taste level. Several contestants wore gowns that, while pretty and OK--looked like they came from a "Pageant and Prom" Shop (like the ones above). And then, there were some that were TACKY-LICIOUS, like the ones below:






Oh Dear!--Miss World 2017 contestants wearing designs that would end up in the "Uh Oh" List (L to R) Miss World Egypt Farah Shaaban, Miss World Scotland Romy McCahill, and Miss World Equatorial Guinea Catalina Mange Ondo-- Miss World 2017 World Designer Fashion Show/Top Model Competition


So...yeah, I wasn't interested in those but more with ones that had a unique creativity and at the same time, looked RUNWAY FAB.



I will start with the actual winner--Miss World Indonesia:





1. Miss World Indonesia Achintya Holte Nilsen: Achintya wore this beautiful creme colored gown from Indonesian brand and designer, Provocate by Melta Tan. And yes, she--or her dress--was judged to be the BEST design from the Miss World 2017 World Designer Fashion Show. The gown was gorgeous and very Haute Couture in its style, design and perfect fit. The dress featured that very popular "nude dress" look with a see-through ivory colored crinoline base with gold sequin applique/embroidery, topped off with a stiffened overskirt that had a sweeping train and the same gold applique that was featured in the main dress. It was pretty much THE PERFECT Miss World gown.

Score: 9.95





2. Miss World Cote D'Ivoire Mandjalia Gbane: Mandjalia wore this SUPER FAB gown above. Her runway presentation was EVERYTHING! She was not only beautiful but supermodel fab. The brick-red colored gown itself also was fab, featuring lots of drama with that outstanding cape and gold details. The fit was IMPECCABLE. Take a look at the length and where all the seams hit: Just right! Mandjalia served them Cote D'Ivoire Couture HUNEY!!

Score: 9.85







3. Miss World Mexico Andrea Meza: OK, I have to say that for Andrea it was A LOT about her FIERCE runway presentation as I watched the video. She blew me away with how she worked this gown overtime and I was excited by the bold neon hue of her highlighter yellow gown. When I finally simmered down my excitement and took a closer look at the entire look including the gown and those UBER KRAY-KRAY strappy platform shoes, it was all a little TOO MUCHEEY but...here's the thing: I LOVED IT! I expect this Miss World "World Designer Fashion Show" to be almost like a Runway/Fashionable version of the "National Costumes Competition" so...for me, Andrea's gown and entire look/presentation was one the BEST!

Score: 9.75







4. Miss World Thailand Patlada Kulphakthanapak: I LOVED this elegant and classic gown design worn by Miss World Thailand. The golden silk design featured a simple sheath/column gown style with a dramatic "Queen of Siam"-like cape and gold sequined embellishment on the neck and back of the cape at the hem. This was one of those perfect examples of a unique gown that had "hints" of its Thai origins but still did not look like a costume and remained Runway Fab!

Score: 9.60 





5. Miss World Liberia Wokie Dolo: I LOVED this gown worn by Miss World Liberia. This was unique, colorful and entrance-making impacting! The neon yellow/green color looked AMAZING against the contestant's luxurious skin color and I also enjoyed the Haute Couture-like oversized leaf embellishments. This reminded of an old-school Yves Saint Laurent Haute Couture gown-meets-Jean Paul Gaultier. If I had any critique, it would be the nude platform heels. Those looked like an afterthought and were the wrong styling choice. But I will just pretend those shoes are not there...for now.

Score: 9.50





6. Miss World India Manushi Chhillar: First off--Miss world India is GORGEOUS! OK, now, onto her gown: Also GORGEOUS! The heavily beaded dress was from Indian designers Falgune and Shane Peacock and featured that popular 'nude gown" look of nude illusion with geometrically placed rhinestones, all ending with a small flourish of pink colored ostrich feathers at the hem. She looked like a Hollywood A-List star on the red carpet of Cannes.

Score: 9.40





7. Miss World China PR Guan Siyu: The "Host Candidate" from the People's Republic of China had the pressure of making her nation's fashion designers proud with her gown choice for the Miss World/World Designer Fashion Show & Top Model Competition...and I think she did quite well! There were elements of Parisian Haute Couture--the fit, silhouette, expensive fabrication, Marie Antoinette mini panier--as well as hints of Chinese Traditional Dress with the neckline/collar, cap sleeves, embroidery. This was a strong World Designer Statement for the beautiful contestant from China. If there was any wish, it would have been stronger more "Runway Diva" hair.

Score: 9.30





8. Miss World Honduras Celia Monterrosa: Three words came to mind when I saw Miss World Honduras SAUNTER down the runway and they were YOU GO GIRL! I mean, seriously, look at her in this photo! Bravo Mija! I thought this royal blue/purple jersey gown was SEXY as all heck, and dramatic (that fabulous cape!) and fit perfectly. It definitely was impacting and she could stop traffic ANYWHERE (and for good reasons!) wearing this.

Score: 9.25





9. Miss World France Aurore Kichenin: Miss World France's gown made my Top 15 List here at No. 9. I thought this was an elegant design that looked refined and very Haute Couture in its intricate and exuberant gold sequined/metallic embroidery. The design featured a column gown with an attached overskirt. It was dramatic but without going over-the-top and reminded me of something from the Lebanese Couturiers who show in Paris, like Elie Saab or Zuhair Murad. I also have the same wish for her as I had for Miss World China: More Diva-like hair; her hairstyle looked way too sporty for such a red carpet-like gown.

Score: 9.10





10. Miss World Vietnam Do My Linh: This gown worn by Miss World Vietnam was stunning, elegant and very entrance-making. While it didn't really have any hints of traditional Vietnamese dress elements (I would have LOVED a Chic Couture Ao Dai perhaps!), it still made a strong classic impact, especially with the beautiful star-studded sequins and flowing overskirt silk chiffon drape.

Score: 9.05





11. Miss World Guyana Vena Mookram: I was impressed with this strapless sequined overskirt-style gown worn by Miss World Guyana. The dress fit very well, was the PERFECT length and the color and fabrication looked rich! I also loved her slicked-back hair and minimal accessories of earrings and a statement ring.

Score: 9.00 





12. Miss World Hungary Virag Koroknyai: OK, I'll be honest, at first I thought "Ummm, that's A LOT of flowers!" but I actually loved this entire look! The fit-and-flare shaped gown itself featured a sheer white iridescent organza-like fabrication with hand-sewn raw-edged flowers and a satin waistband. I loved the raw-edged organza/tulle flourish at the shoulders and yes, I even liked how it was all topped off with a matching hair accessory. It was unique (and in a good way) and made a strong runway impact.

Score: 8.99









13. Miss World Nepal Nikita Chandak: LOVE LOVE LOVE this mermaid-shaped gown worn by Miss World Nepal. It meshed elements of a tradition "pageant gown"(with the silhouette, sweetheart neckline and pouf bottom) as well as East Asian/Nepalese influences with the very rich and striking gold sequin work. She looked like the Queen of Nepal!



Score: 8.95





14. Miss World Canada Cynthia Menard: Cynthia wore this white fit-and-flare gown with a dramatic chiffon cape at the Miss World/World Designer Fashion Show and I thought it was a strong enough gown statement that I wanted to include it in my Top 15. She looked like a Runway Snow Angel in this look which was appropriate being that she was from Canada! The silver sequined lace scalloped hem trim reminded me of snowflakes and icicles and I also loved how she presented the design on the runway.

Score: 8.92





15. Miss World Russia Polina Popova: Last but certainly, not least, I also liked this red ballgown worn by the beautiful Polina Popova Miss World Russia. The red was so rich and vibrant, it definitely made everyone stop and gasp a "Wow!" and the gown itself looked expensive and fabulous with the dramatic tiered overskirt covered with hundreds upon hundreds of shimmering paillettes. There was a hint of a Supermodel Russian Doll in the overall look.

Score: 8.90



EXTRA:



Miss World Cook Islands Alanna Smith: I wanted to add Alanna's gown here because it was "different', made a DEFINITE IMPACT as she came down the runway and for its quite glorious way of celebrating her South Pacific islands' flora and fauna. This could have been a perfect costume for her but...it also made for a very glorious gown choice. I absolutely loved the feathered and flowered details at the shoulders/neck/bust and her crown...and the pretty ombre dyed chiffon. This to me, was like the Cook Island version of a very elegant and Haute Indian sari. And for that, I wanted to give Alanna (and whoever designed this) props!





Click below to watch Miss World 2017 "World Designer Fashion Show":





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ICE STYLE.....2017 NHK Trophy Grand Prix of Japan FIGURE SKATING COSTUMES: LADIES

Pink Geisha: Satoko Miyahara of Japan performs her Short Program to "Memoirs of a Geisha" at NHK Trophy 2017, Osaka Japan


We have gone through three of the I.S.U. Grand Prix of Figure Skating series competitions for this 2017-2018 season, including the Rostelecom Cup of Russia, Skate Canada International, Grand Prix Cup of China and now, it's time for the 2017 NHK Trophy , or Grand Prix Japan. I have discussed all three and the respective costumes for Ladies, Men, Pairs and Ice Dance here on my ICE STYLE Blog (search the keyword "Ice Style" or "Latest" here on this blog to check out those Costumes Recaps). I have discussed some of the Ladies who skated at the 2017 NHK Trophy already (at Rostelecom Cup HERE) so now, let's discuss some of the LADIES Costumes I have not talked about from 2017 NHK Trophy:







Alena Leonova of Russia: I love me some Alena! Why? Because she LOVES a good costume! In fact, I would put here in that category of figure skaters who fully embrace a "themed" costume! For her Free Skate to Tune Maari Entriyaan (Bollywood Selection), she didn't just "suggest" Bollywood, she gave you SARI FIERCENESS! Alena wore a purple chiffon sari-inspired look along with a nude-colored crop bodice, all bedazzled in oversized, multicolored jeweled sequins, gold trim and silver rhinestones. She even donned that gold accessory down the center part of her hair. #Love







Satoko Miyahara of Japan: Japan's Satoko Miyahara wore this pink costume for her Short Program to Memoirs of a Geisha (soundtrack) by John Williams. It was quite delicate, subdued and pretty. There weren't any overt hints of a Geisha or Kimono. What we did see was a powder pink costume with beautiful petal-like silver rhinestones and dégradé pink skirt.







Free Skate to Madame Butterfly Act 3, Goro's Entrance (Madame Butterfly Act 2)  and Butterfly Bids Her Child Farewell (Madame Butterfly Act 2) by Giacomo Puccini--Continuing with her Japan-centric music for her programs, Satoko wore this blue design for her "Madame Butterfly" Free Skate. Once again, this wasn't in the "Alena Leonova" in-your-face/obvious in terms of an "ethnic" costume look; instead it was a figure skating costume "interpretation". Miyahara wore this blue costume which featured solid and nude illusion, beautifully sequined, giving a hint of a delicate Kimono-like robe.











Polina Tsurskaya of Russia: One word--WOW. I LOVED this blue and nude costume worn by Russia's Polina Tsurskaya for her Short Program to Light of the Seven (Games of Thrones soundtrack) by Ramin Djawadi. The costume featured rhinestone-studded "branches" set on a nude illusion base with perfectly cut solid panels in blue violet. She looked like an Ice Queen--or a GORGEOUS White Walker from "Game of Thrones"...and I guess that was the point. 





So Young Park of Korea: South Korea's So Young Park skated her Short Program to Black Swan by Petr I. Tchaikovski, arranged by Clint Mansell in this costume above and I loved it. She looked ethereal, delicate and pretty. I liked that it wasn't your typical all black or white costume for "Swan Lake", but was instead this stunning deep blue, gold and black beauty. I also loved the subtle sequined "feathered" hair crown. 









Yuna Shirawa of Japan: Yuna skated her Short Program to The Girl With Flaxen Hair by Claude Debussy in this pastel pretty costume. The design featured lilac, aquamarine and nude colors and  beautiful flowers-and-leaves sequined embroidery on the upper torso. 





Free Skate to Pictures At An Exhibition by Modest Mussorgsky: For her Free Skate, Yuna wore this maroon/deep purple-colored costume above. It had silver jeweled sequins and a small nude illusion panel. It was nice and I especially loved the heavy-to-light effect of the rhinestones. She also added a matching color hair bow.







Mirai Nagasu of USA: I've talked about her Season 2017-2018 costumes HERE when was at the 2017 Rostelecom Cup but it was a nice surprise to see a NEW COSTUME for her Short Program to Nocturne No. 20 in C Sharp Minor by Frederic Chopin, which was the same music for her last season's Short Program. This new Cabernet-red colored design featured a stretch lace bodice/sleeves/skirt with silver rhinestone studded front bodice. It was OK but, frankly I liked last season's costume better:









I really liked this costume last season, and I still do. This is what I said in my 2017 Rostelecom Cup Costumes Recap when she wore this again: "Would I have wished she might have 'changed' the costume just a teeny-tiny bit? Maybe. But, this is so outstanding that heck, why not? Give it a second run! Since is the first event of the season, I'm kinda hoping these repeat program gals and guys will at least give us a switch in costumes. One can only hope!" And she did. But maybe, I just wanted something better.



**UP NEXT: THE MEN'S COSTUMES Highlights of 2017 NHK Trophy Grand Prix of Figure Skating



And don't forget about my PAGEANT COLORING BOOK!! Enjoy making your very own Pageant Evening Gown Contest via my coloring book! Click the photo to purchase on Amazon.com NOW!