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19 March 2024

No more bikinis at Miss World pageant

The competition is about personality, it is 'beauty with a purpose' . (AFP)

Published

Tender figures, abs and well-toned body have been a major highlight in the Miss World pageants and now the owner of this popular show has decided to do away with the round.

Julia Morley, Miss World chairperson, has decided to get rid of the swimsuit round starting from next pageant.

Speaking to 'Elle' magazine, Morley said, "I really ... don't need to see women just walking up and down in bikinis. It doesn't do anything for the woman. And it doesn't do anything for any of us."

Morley's late husband Eric  was the founder of Miss World in 1951 by and since the show has featured a segment dedicated exclusively to swimwear. However, recently the show conducted this segment privately with a panel of judges and now the swimsuit round will be done away with completely.

"We don't want to just make them feel like they are walking bodies, you know," said Morley.

Chris Wilmer, national director of Miss world America/Miss United States told ABC News, “Instead of focusing on taut abs and sexy swimsuit bods Miss World plans to feature a beachwear round. "It'll be more of a fashion competition than a bikini show," Wilmer said.

He further added that the competition is about personality, it is 'beauty with a purpose' and hence the round was introduced in 1974.

In this the contestants are judged on their most relevant and important charity project in her nation.

Miss World contestants will still compete in events including dance, talent, top model gown and beauty with a purpose.

Wilmer says, "Pageantry is an age-old industry and I think with Morley getting rid of swimsuit and making it more of a lifestyle competition sends a strong message and I applaud her for it."

Rolene Strauss of South Africa was crowned the 64th Miss World winner in London Dec 14 and it marked the final event featuring contestants wearing bikinis.