No wigs please - the new rules shaking up beauty pageants

In a significant shift for beauty pageants in Ivory Coast, the rules are changing to promote natural beauty. For many years, contestants have relied on long wigs and elaborate hair extensions to enhance their appearance. However, Marlène-Kany Kouassi, who won the Miss Ivory Coast title in 2022, has become a symbol of this new movement by proudly wearing her natural hair. Her victory is remarkable, as she is one of only two winners in the last sixty years to do so. This change is not just a local phenomenon; it reflects a broader conversation about beauty standards around the world, where many still equate beauty with Western ideals. The organizers of the Miss Ivory Coast pageant have decided to ban wigs, weaves, and hair extensions from the preliminary rounds of the competition. This decision aims to encourage contestants to embrace their natural hair, whether it is styled in braids or left in its natural state. Victor Yapobi, the president of the organizing committee, stated, 'We want the candidates to be natural - whether with braids or straightened hair, it should be their own. Beauty must be raw. ' This new rule has sparked excitement among many contestants who feel that it allows them to express their true selves. One contestant, Emmanuella Dali, expressed her joy about the new rules, saying that they give her a better chance of success as she prefers not to wear wigs. She feels proud to represent her identity as an African woman. However, the change has also raised concerns among some contestants and hairdressers. Astrid Menekou, a contestant and makeup artist, admitted that she was initially shocked by the no-wig rule, saying, 'I didn't expect this rule! But now? I like my hair, and that's OK. ' This highlights the mixed feelings surrounding the new regulations, as some women see wigs as a form of personal expression and creativity. The beauty pageant's new rules could have significant economic implications as well. The hair industry in Ivory Coast is worth over $300 million annually, with wigs and weaves making up a large portion of that market. Hairdresser Ange Sea expressed her concerns, stating, 'This rule is not good for us. Many women love wigs. This will hurt our business. ' As the preliminary rounds of the pageant unfold, the debate over beauty standards continues, with many hoping that this initiative will lead to a greater acceptance of natural beauty in society. The upcoming Miss Ivory Coast 2025 pageant will be a crucial moment to see how these changes will influence the competition and the perception of beauty in the country.