Summer’s Fabulous Fashion Pageant

By Monica Avila

 From the lovely setting in Salon Eduardos, to the glamorous judges and guests, to the truly gorgeous contestants and hosts, all in all the Miss Arizona Latina and Miss Teen Arizona Latina 2013 Pageant was truly a night to remember.

 The directors of Miss Latina Arizona, Emma Barrios, Francisco Adame and David de Dios, put on a splendid show. Opening acts included a skillfully choreographed dance routine that was a seamless combination of flamenco, salsa and folklorico styles.  Oh, and the costumes, beautiful flowing white silk skirts contrasted by black, were reminiscent of ballet dresses.  The evening was entertaining, elegant and simply spectacular.      

 Now the Winners

 So let’s get the big news out of the way. Everyone certainly had their favorites; the hall was filled with friends, family and fans.  All around chants and cheers of the names of contestants rang throughout the space.  Thirty-one participant names were accompanied by clackers and whistles to make for a lively and exciting crowd.  When the winners were announced at the end of the evening, the crowd went wild, and the feelings of cariño for the participants was perfect. 

 Judges Silvia Bours, Diana Prieto-Bernal, Ernesto Rodriguez, Ruben Pereida, Recio Jackson and Gilberto Trujillo as Judge President, definitely had their work cut out for them.  With so many poised and bellas señoritas, it was surely hard to pick their favorite.  Pick they did, and once the scores were tallied two gorgeous young ladies had their lives changed forever.

Miss Arizona Latina

 Miss Arizona Latina Winner:  Brenda Jakeline Soto was crowned wearing a gorgeous teal satin gown.  The smile on her face shone.

 Miss Teen Arizona Latina Winner:  Michele Allileth Lopez was crowned wearing a shimmery trumpet-style stress.  A happier smile doesn’t exist. 

Miss Teen Latina

Oh the Entertainment

 From the perfect hosts in Irma Deihl and Oscar De La Salas to the silky vocals of Juan Felix and Danny Elb; as well as the dance styling of Rumba Azteca the entertainment was non-stop.  One near by guest remarked, “there is no better place to be.”  Even the intermission was filled with excitement, with cheers and the opportunity to look around at the guests all “dressed to the nines.”  The evening made me proud to be Latina. Photographers had a grand time snapping shots of all the beauty; but what else could we expect from the Latino crowd: beauty and spice and everything nice of course!

 Favorite Gowns

 Of course, no fashion story is complete with out a hint or two about the gowns; and there were so many gowns to choose from.  It was certainly hard to choose just one so I’ll just chat about a few of my faves. Oh, and of course a pair of shoes that were soo soo hard not to snatch right off of the contestant’s feet :) 

 Lavender Grecian Goddess:  This gown was an exquisite choice. This was easily one of the most elegant gowns in the house. 

Less is more:  This simple red gown made the most of the contestant’s skin tone and the fit was beautiful.

Glitz and Glam with a little whimsy: You have to love the sparkle and the interesting shape of this dress.  The umbre gold to black and belt, gave it that extra special touch. 

Okay, everyone wore silver shoes, but this ballroom dance style pair were absolutely my favorite of the night. Simple, elegant and sexy all at once…adore!

 Winners in Other Categories:

 Miss Arizona Latina

First Runner Up: Nalleli Valle
Second Runner Up: Alexis Ariana Hermosillo

Miss Photogenic: Marcela Cota and Elvia Lugo
Miss Congeniality: Celene Meraz
Most Likes: Yesica Lopez
Miss Top Model: Nayelli Valle and Brenda Soto. 

 Miss Teen Arizona Latina

First Runner Up: Iliana Camargo
Second Runner Up: Dianey Beltran

Miss Teen Photogenic: Lizeth Sanchez and Miranda Padilla
Miss Teen Congeniality: Dianey Beltran
Miss Teen Top Model: Brettani Vega
Most Likes: Kinberly Guzman and Annete Ramirez.