Former beauty queen Krista Medlock's idea seeks to challenge the enduring premise of beauty pageants: that physical looks are the best litmus test to weigh a woman's beauty.
Though contestants in the "Depth of Beauty'' teen and miss pageants in Dallas will participate in evening gown competitions, the swimsuit parade is out. Motivational speaking is in, personal style is also a new category and contestants will model clothing that represents their personalities. Judges' interviews will gauge the women's intelligence and maturity. Before the pageant, they also attend workshops on positive self-image and financial planning.
But an inner-beauty competition has its critics. What about the girl who loses? "They might say, 'I'm not outwardly beautiful and now I'm not inwardly beautiful,''' says Lenore Wright, an assistant professor of philosophy at Baylor University's Honors College.
Other experts wonder if this pageant can succeed in an age when the business of beauty pervades society in everything from cosmetic surgery to the celebrities many adore.
Depth of Beauty Pageant
Where Inner Beauty Counts
Trend Themes
1. Reimagining Beauty Pageants - The Depth of Beauty pageant challenges the traditional beauty pageant format by focusing on inner beauty and personal development.
2. Shifting Beauty Standards - This pageant reflects a growing cultural shift towards valuing intelligence, personal style, and self-image over physical appearance.
3. Empowering Women - The Depth of Beauty pageant empowers women by promoting positive self-image, financial planning, and personal growth.
Industry Implications
1. Beauty and Personal Care - This disruptive pageant concept opens opportunities for the beauty and personal care industry to develop products and services that cater to inner beauty and self-image.
2. Entertainment and Events - The reimagined beauty pageant format offers potential for innovation and disruption within the entertainment and event planning industries.
3. Education and Personal Development - The Depth of Beauty pageant highlights the need for educational programs and services focused on self-esteem, financial planning, and personal growth.