Global Brands Group Holding Limited (“Global Brands” or the “Group”; SEHK Stock Code: 787), one of the world’s leading branded apparel, footwear, and fashion accessories companies, today announced that it will partner with the bebe brand (“bebe”) to relaunch a newly transformed e-commerce platform and its international brick-and-mortar stores designed to meet the heightened shopping expectations of the savvy, confident female consumer.
The announcement represents the first initiative under Global Brands’ direction of bebe’s e-commerce platform, direct-to-consumer divisions and international operations. The Company has also appointed designer Nathan Jenden as Creative Director to lead this effort. Mr. Jenden is well known for his eponymous collections, as well as his time as Creative Director at Diane von Furstenberg.
“bebe is an iconic fashion brand with a loyal, global following,” said Sandra Campos, who was recently appointed President of the bebe division at Global Brands Group. “With Global Brands’ renowned expertise behind us, we see a tremendous opportunity to relaunch a new e-commerce platform that best reflects who our global customer is and how she shops. We are very excited to welcome Nathan on board, as he’s a strong and proven design talent, with a remarkable pulse on keeping up with today’s consumer. He understands who she is, where she’s going, and how she wants to be reached. And we are confident that he is uniquely positioned to best lead the creative vision of the bebe brand.”
Mr. Jenden joins Global Brands Group’s bebe division after spending over a decade working with fashion icon Diane Von Furstenburg, and then catering to a prominent client list that counted music mogul and mega star, Madonna. He launched his own label during New York Fashion Week 2005, and by his third collection, he had Philip Treacy on board for the headpieces, and Christian Louboutin doing the heels – an impactful collaboration, which got him noticed by WWD and the International Herald Tribune. Mr. Jenden studied at Central Saint Martins and the Royal College of Art, and made his foray into the fashion world as an apprentice to John Galliano.
“bebe is one of the original brands in the world of contemporary, chic women’s fashion, which brought something new to market that wasn’t like anything we had ever seen at that time,” said Nathan Jenden. “I believe passionately in the brand’s diverse consumer who adores seductive, decorated and feminine clothes through her life twenty-four seven, and our vision is to target her complete lifestyle from clothes to accessories and beyond. We are looking at what a woman wants now, how she shops, and what she needs, and we’ll seek rich and engaging conversations with our customers to ensure we are part of their integral global community.”
Joseph Gabbay, Chief Executive Officer of Bluestar Alliance LLC, which forged a partnership with bebe stores, inc (Nasdaq: BEBE) in 2016 to create new licensees and product extensions for the brand, commented, “As we continue to build out the wholesale and department store distribution for the bebe brand, it was a natural transition for Global Brands Group to take over the bebe e-commerce platform. Global Brands Group has been a strategic licensee and can now seamlessly synergize the international distribution, e-commerce platform and wholesale business. Our efforts will concentrate on an omni-channel distribution approach to service and expand the bebe customer, both domestically and internationally.” Bluestar Alliance LLC will continue managing the brand with the existing partnership remaining intact.
Ralph Gindi, COO of Bluestar Alliance LLC, also commented, “A robust marketing initiative is set to be shared for the upcoming Fall 2017 season. Since our acquisition less than a year ago, we have introduced two major advertising campaigns. First featuring globally recognized model Irina Shayk, shot on the islands of Greece, followed by the more recent and active campaign featuring model Hailey Clauson. The latter campaign was shot by Luigi & Iango and can been seen today in outlets such as Vogue, Elle & InStyle amongst others. During festival season bebe activated with the campaign #bebefest. Through top funnel marketing, our omni channel approach & efforts yielded 18 Million impressions and new streams of revenue via customer acquisition. As we continue forward our integrated marketing activities in all aspects (print, social media, press & brand marketing) will speak directly to the loyal bebe customer and showcase its DNA, season after season.”
The following is a press release from Alternative Press:
To celebrate 32 years at the forefront of alternative music and youth culture, Alternative Press is excited to announce the launch of its new clothing brands.
Your Brand, which will launch later this month with four clothing designs and two accessories, will feature new designs inspired by youth music culture and its community. Each release will be a limited-edition launch exclusive to altpress.com. Future releases will include collaborative designs with popular artists featured by AP and iconic brands within the music community.
The Legacy line will feature classic designs released over the past three decades. These designs will be consistently available on altpress.com. To kick things off, AP has launched a small run of T-shirts, dubbed the APone collection, featuring rare artwork and prints handpicked from the very first issue of Alternative Press. The APone line can be found at altpress.com/apone.
“It’s a really exciting time in AP’s office with the APMAs in only four weeks, and we are so stoked on the launch of our new clothing line,” says Alternative Press General Manager/CFO Joe Scarpelli. “APone is part of our Legacybrand, which is one of two new lines launching underneath our umbrella toward the end of June. We couldn’t be more excited to expand AP’s brand with this new line of merch that celebrates both our history and future.”
“RuPaul’s Drag Race” contestants (Photo courtesy of VH1)
The following is a press release from RuPaul’s DragCon:
Presented by RuPaul and World of Wonder Productions, the inaugural RuPaul’s DragCon NYC will be held at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center on September 9-10, 2017. Tickets will go on sale Thursday, June 8, 2017, at Noon EST/9am PST at RuPaulsDragCon.com.
The two-day convention, a homecoming for RuPaul and World of Wonder Productions, will welcome fans from around the globe to the first DragCon held in the Big Apple. RuPaul’s DragCon NYC was announced after a record breaking 40,000+ fans attended the third annual DragCon held in Los Angeles earlier this year.
RuPaul’s DragCon NYC will feature vendors and exhibitors, exclusive merchandise, panel and Q&A sessions, autograph and photo opportunities with drag stars—including many from the Emmy award-winning series “RuPaul’s Drag Race”—with more to be announced!
A renovated guest room at W Barcelona (Rendering courtesy of Marriott International, Inc.)
The following is a press release from Marriott International:
W Barcelona, an iconic flagship of W Hotels Worldwide, part of Marriott International (NASDAQ: MAR), today unveiled a multi-million Euro transformation of all 473 guest rooms and suites, along with the addition of Europe’s first W Sound Suite (a music studio and writers room, now available at four W Hotels around the world). The award-winning in-house design team at W Hotels partnered with London-based design studio Bowler James Brindley to reimagine the hotel, inspired by the 24/7 energy and privileged location on the shores of the buzzing Barceloneta.
“W Barcelona has been known for its innovative design since it first opened its doors in 2009,” said Anthony Ingham, Global Brand Leader, W Hotels Worldwide. “The completion of this multi-million Euro makeover ensures this beachside escape will continue to lead the market with its forward-thinking decor and unrivaled guest experience.”
Since the hotel’s inception it has become one of the most distinctive landmarks along the Barcelona coast. Famed for its iconic sail-shape and unprecedented sea views, W Barcelona continues to disrupt and redefine the Barcelona hospitality scene. Regularly hosting fashion events, product launches and high profile guests, the hotel has made a bold impression on both locals and international jetsetters alike.
City and Sea Converge
The new room design celebrates both the city and the sea, embracing the unique views afforded by the hotel’s guest rooms. The color palette is derived from the blue hues of the sea, with pops of white, teal and rose gold to accentuate the light and complement the views from the floor-to-ceiling windows. The notion of underwater camouflage is displayed in the room’s carpet, which is a playful interpretation of the sea bed seen through the waters of the Mediterranean.
In a nod to Barcelona’s celebrated culinary scene, the modular furniture in the sitting area reflects Spanish tapas culture – chic, small tables and chairs with pendant lighting. The guest room wall reflects the city’s grid with an innovative lighting structure that transforms the mood from day to night. The new rooms also feature signature accent pillows showcasing modern images of iconic characters from Barcelona’s history including Gaudí, Dalí and St. Eulalia.
All guest rooms also feature a range of new in-room services including Nespresso coffee machines, tea making facilities, 49-inch flat-screen televisions and Bose blue-tooth sound systems. Signature W amenities are still available to all guests including the Bliss® Spa sinkside six bath products; the signature W Hotels Bed; access to high-speed WiFi; and the brand’s signature Whatever/Whenever service, which provides guests whatever they want, whenever they want it.
W Sound Suite at W Barcelona (Rendering courtesy of Marriott International, Inc.)
Eat. Sleep. Record. Repeat.
Following successful launches at W Bali, W Seattle and W Hollywood, W Barcelona lives up to the city’s reputation as one of the most innovative music capitals by opening Europe’s first W Sound Suite. In partnership with Coca-Cola, this private music studio and writer’s room enables professional recording artists, studio musicians, producers and hotel guests alike, to record in style while on the road. The main mixing room of the W Sound Suite at W Barcelona features a private vocal booth and a lounge big enough for artists and their entourage. W Barcelona will offer private master classes lead by W Barcelona’s Music Curator, exclusive recording sessions and an original space for creative brainstorming sessions for musicians and hotel guests alike.
W Sound Suites are in part the brainchild of the W brand’s North American Music Director, DJ White Shadow, the Chicago-based producer best known for his work with Lady Gaga. The W Sound Suite at W Barcelona is equipped with the latest in studio technology and offers professional specifications in a stylish, comfortable and sound-proof space. To outfit the space, W Hotels partnered with industry leader, Native Instruments, who provided the latest generation of the world’s leading production suite (Komplete 11), a state-of-the-art control keyboard (Komplete Kontrol S-Series), the cutting-edge groove production system used by hip-hop producers around the globe (Maschine) and an all-in-one DJ system (Traktor Kontrol S8), among other items. W Hotels also worked with world-renowned audio company, Shure, to provide new SHR440 headphones, X2u microphones, KSM32/SL microphone condensers and BETA®181 microphone for the ultimate recording experience.
“Barcelona is an epic city known for its nightlife, culture, and most of all- music,” said DJ White Shadow, North American Music Director, W Hotels Worldwide. “The latest W Sound Suite at W Barcelona will be the perfect place for international artists to record while on the road. And for hotel guests that have always dreamt of the spotlight, they can book it too!”
To celebrate the launch of the newest W Sound Suite, W Barcelona will host a new content series in collaboration with local record labels and upcoming artists compiled and selected by PIEM, Music Curator at W Barcelona. The first event will feature TheGround– famed Berlin-based electronic music duo composed of Florian Kruse and Hendrik Burkhard. The celebrated producers will present their unreleased EP in an intimate in-studio performance.
Celebrating In Style
In celebration of the hotel’s striking new room design, W Barcelona has partnered with internationally renowned artist and muralist Ricardo Cavolo to create a limited-edition footwear collection in collaboration with Muroexe, a Spanish urban shoe brand.
Inspiration for the Ricardo Cavolo x W Barcelona sneaker collection is easily found in the hotel’s stunning location on the shores of the Mediterranean, with design elements such as waves, palm trees, the sun and the color blue incorporated throughout. These unique features are accentuated by Cavolo’s trademarks – fire and hearts – for a lighthearted spin on footwear. The sneakers are available for purchase for 150 Euro at W-Barcelona.com/RCxW.
Raf Simons at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Raf Simons was the big winner at the 2017 CFDA Fashion Awards, held in partnership with Swarovski, at The Manhattan Center’s Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. Simons won both Womenswear and Menswear Designer of the Year for Calvin Klein. It is the second time in CFDA history that a designer was honored with this award for both Menswear and Womenswear. The first time was in 1993, when Calvin Klein himself received both honors.
The 2017 CFDA Fashion Awards were hosted by Seth Meyers. Presenters included Diane von Furstenberg, Nicole Kidman, Jon Bon Jovi, Armie Hammer, Alek Wek, Mandy Moore, Anna Wintour, Amber Valletta, Karen Nelson and Kerry Washington.
Celebrity guests included Matt Bomer, Salma Hayek, James Franco, Chloë Grace Moretz, Kate Bosworth, Amanda Peet, Rebecca Hall, Kathy Najimy, Nate Berkus, Ellie Kemper, Mandy Moore, Heidi Klum, Jaime Alexander, Priyanka Chopra, Diane Kruger, Lupita Nyong’o, Choe Sevigny, Brooke Shields, Erin Foster, Brit Marling, Bernadette Peters, Olivia Munn, Mia Moretti, Olivia Palermo, Gigi Hadid, Bella Hadid, Harley Viera-Newton, Lily Aldridge, Josephine Skriver, Joan Smalls, Arizona Muse, Coco Rocha and Erin Wasson.
Eryn Allen Kane performed Martha Wash’s “Carry On” at the end of the event.
The Council of Fashion Designers of America, Inc. (CFDA) is a non-profit trade association, founded in 1962, whose membership consists of more than 500 of America’s foremost womenswear, menswear, jewelry and accessory designers.
The following statements were issued via press release:
“Tonight, we have come together to honor the best and brightest talents and bring recognition to all of American fashion,” said Steven Kolb, President and CEO of the CFDA. “It was also a night to put a spotlight on the industry’s commitment to civic responsibility. We would like to thank Nadja Swarovski and Swarovski for 16 years of a partnership that always inspires.”
“When Steven and I started to work together 10 years ago, our main goal was to make the CFDA more and more of a family, a family of talent,” said CFDA Chairwoman Diane von Furstenberg. “In a world where everything is changing so rapidly, talent is more important than ever. Business models may change, distribution may be disrupted, fashion week questioned, but talent is the heart, the engine, and that is what will make our industry not only survive but thrive. Talent is what we celebrate today.”
“We are honored to continue our partnership with the CFDA and it is particularly special this year,” said Nadja Swarovski, Member of the Swarovski Executive Board. “Swarovski has a long history of philanthropy woven into our DNA. And it’s with that spirit that we wanted to celebrate this industry’s propensity for giving back. The CFDA Swarovski Award for Positive Change was created because positive change is the pinnacle of excellent design. And this year, with the Emerging Talent Award, we’ve identified those designers pushing boundaries across multiple categories. These designers are the visionaries of tomorrow and we’re proud to champion them today.”
Here is the complete list of winners of the 2017 CFDA Fashion Awards:
Womenswear Designer of the Year: Raf Simons for Calvin Klein
Other nominees:
Joseph Altuzarra for Altuzarra
Marc Jacobs for Marc Jacobs
Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez for Proenza Schouler
Ashley Olsen and Mary-Kate Olsen for The Row
Menswear Designer of the Year: Raf Simons for Calvin Klein
Other nominees:
Robert Geller for Robert Geller
Thom Browne for Thom Browne
Tim Coppens for Tim Coppens
Todd Snyderfor Todd Snyder
Accessory Designer of the Year: Stuart Vevers for Coach
Other nominees:
Irene Neuwirth for Irene Neuwirth Jewlery
Rachel Mansur and Floriana Gavriel for Mansur Gavriel
Paul Andrew for Paul Andrew
Ashley Olsen and Mary-Kate Olsen for The Row
Swarovski Award for Emerging Talent: Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia for Monse
Other nominees:
Laura Vassar Brock and Kristopher Brock for Brock Collection
Virgil Abloh for Off-White
Sander Lak for Sies Marjan
Swarovski Award for Positive Change: Kenneth Cole
Fashion Icon: Franca Sozzani (Sozzani’s son Francesco Carrozzini accepted the award on behalf of his late mother.)
Founder’s Award in Honor of Eleanor Lambert: Pat McGrath
International Award: Demna Gvasalia of Vetements and Balenciaga
Board of Directors’ Tribute: Gloria Steinem, Cecile Richards and Janelle Monáe.
Geoffrey Beene Lifetime Achievement Award: Rick Owens
Raf Simons at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Mandy Moore and Stuart Vevers at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Gloria Steinem, Cecile Richards and Janelle Monáe at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Stuart Vevers and James Franco at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Jon Bon Jovi and Kenneth Cole at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Nicole Kidman at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Elizabeth Chambers and Armie Hammer at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Nicole Kidman and Raf Simons at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Rick Owens at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Eryn Allen Kane at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Seth Meyers at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Janelle Monáe, Gloria Steinem, Diane von Furstenberg and Cecile Richards and at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Pat McGrath, Amber Valletta and Florence Welch at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards Pat McGrath, Amber Valetta and Florence Welch at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Pat McGrath at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Eryn Allen Kane at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Pat McGrath at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Amber Valletta and Florence Welch at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Jon Bon Jovi and Kenneth Cole at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Kenneth Cole at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Stuart Vevers and Mandy Moore at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Kenneth Cole and Nadja Swarovsk at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Kerry Washington at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Demna Gvasalia at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Demna Gvasalia and Alek Wek at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Raf Simons at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Cecile Richards, Gloria Steinem and Janelle Monáe at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Janelle Monáe at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Mandy Moore at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Nadja Swarovski, Kerry Washington, Fernando Garcia and Laura Kim at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Kerry Washington at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Nicole Kidman at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Kerry Washington at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Laura Kim, Kerry Washington and Fernando Garcia at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Gloria Steinem, Cecile Richards and Janelle Monáe at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Raf Simons at the 34th Annual CFDA Fashion Awards at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on June 5, 2017. (Photo courtesy of BFA)
Kathy Ireland wearing Diamonds by Kathy Ireland (Photo courtesy by Paul Raps New York)
The following is a press release from Paul Raps New York:
Diamonds by Kathy Ireland in association with Paul Raps New York, Yaron Turgeman of Taly Diamonds, and designer of fine jewels, Roland Krainz of Krainz Creations, will premiere at the 2017 Luxury and JCK shows. The partners are each renowned, esteemed and celebrated in their respective fields.
Each product in the Diamonds by Kathy Ireland collection is handmade from the finest materials, the top quality diamonds, and the patented setting intensifies the natural beauty, radiance and apparent size of each stone. Diamonds by Kathy Ireland is a collection of sixty-five jewelry pieces which include engagement rings, wedding bands, and patent-pending earrings, bracelets and pendants.
Diamonds by Kathy Ireland will be available through select fine retailers with price points starting at $2,000. Each jewelry piece is laser inscribed and accompanied by a certificate of authenticity which guarantees labor and quality of the design.
“From mines to the finger, clients can rest assured that each stone is sourced with the utmost integrity and our manufacturing process is an exquisite work of art. My mentor in the world of fine jewelry will always be the incredible Elizabeth Taylor. It is my hope, dream, wish and prayer that Elizabeth would celebrate the beauty of this collection. Paul, Roland, and Yaron are incredible partners. It has taken many years to collaborate with this dream team,” says Kathy Ireland.
Also making an appearance at the shows will be multi-million dollar pieces from the couture diamond collection, Kathleen Marie by Paul Raps New York. Kathy is scheduled to deliver the keynote address at the Luxury Show on Friday, June 2 at 8:30 a.m. PST.
“Kathy and our team share the same values,” says Paul Raps. “We are thrilled and honored to be in this venture together. Kathy is an extraordinary lady and we have an extraordinary brand,” he adds.
Diamonds by Kathy Ireland will be showing at the Luxury Show at Exhibit 1716.
In a creative partnership with the storied American fashion house Coach, Inc. and Coach Creative Director Stuart Vevers, James Franco is announced as the face of Coach For Men, the new fragrance launching in September.
An actor, director, writer, artist and philanthropist, James Franco embodies the creativity, confidence, curiosity and innate style of the Coach Guy. He is dynamic, daring, magnetic and multifaceted. He is defined by harmonious dualities: rugged yet refined, fearless and brave yet thoughtful and grounded. He has a rebellious spirit—and it’s perfectly fitting that he once played James Dean.
“James is the quintessential-cool Coach guy. He’s handsome, there’s a bit of danger and he’s thoughtful and challenging, energetic and prolific,” Stuart Vevers said. “He represents so many of the references I’ve used at Coach—references of American style that resonate around the world.”
“Creativity is the way I engage with life. It’s the way I engage with other people and communicate, and it’s really the way I find meaning in life,” said James Franco. “I enjoyed collaborating with Stuart. There are a lot of references to Coach tradition in his designs, but with an added spin, and that idea is something I have done in my creative work.”
Shonda Rhimes and Cathleen Meredith (Photo courtesy of Dove)
Dove Real Beauty Productions and its creative director Shonda Rhimes debuted its first short film called “Meet Cathleen,” and it has resulted in very divided reactions on the Internet. Dove Real Beauty Productions is from personal wash brand Dove, whose parent company is Unilever. Rhimes is best known as the executive producer/creator of the TV series “Grey’s Anatomy” and “Scandal.” The film showcases Cathleen Meredith, who founded the dance group Fat Girls Dance. She talks about being a large woman who has self-confidence and and self-acceptance about her body and the way she looks, and she wants other overweight women to feel the same way.
Since debuting on May 18, 2017, “Meet Cathleen” has racked up more than 2 million views on YouTube in just five days. However, there have been polar opposite reactions: While about half of the Internet commenters love the film for its message of self-confidence, the other half of commenters hate the film because they say it’s socially and medically irresponsible for not addressing the health problems that come with obesity.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-owM4crSd4Q
This was Dove’s response in a YouTube comment: “We believe in showing women as they are in real life. Dove does not judge any woman’s size, shape or ability.”
Rhimes issued this statement in a press release announcing the “Meet Cathleen” film: “Dove and I have a shared passion in emphasizing what’s real. The characters that I write about come from the fact that I wanted to see real women on TV – the real and messy stuff that makes us human. In working with Dove and Real Beauty Productions, we get to talk to real women and hear their own beauty stories. The idea that Cathleen defines beauty as self-love is a very mind blowing concept. I don’t think a lot of us, me included, define beauty in terms of self-love. And, to me, that is so empowering.
“Dove and I have a shared passion in emphasizing what’s real. The characters that I write about come from the fact that I wanted to see real women on TV—the real and messy stuff that makes us human. In working with Dove and Real Beauty Productions, we get to talk to real women and hear their own beauty stories. The idea that Cathleen defines beauty as self-love is a very mind blowing concept. I don’t think a lot of us, me included, define beauty in terms of self-love. And, to me, that is so empowering.”
Meredith added in a statement: “I don’t think we know how much we are told that there is something wrong with our bodies. I think beauty should be fearlessness. I think beauty should be resilience. I think beauty should be creativity. I feel so lucky to have worked with a powerful role model like Shonda Rhimes on such an important project—one I hope will inspire every other woman out there to define beauty for themselves.”
Cathleen Meredith and her group Fat Girls Dance (Photo courtesy of Dove)
Here is a sampling of reactions on YouTube:
“I love the concept. But part of the self love is taking care of your body. hopefully she is eating healthier and losing weight with her dancing.”
“I think it’s wonderful that Cathleen is so happy with herself, but there was a point in the video where she said “I don’t think we [fat women] know how much we are told that there is something wrong here (pointing to her body)” and it’s great to love yourself and others but being obese IS a disease and I’m positive that if this video was about anorexia, people would be outraged. Just a thought.”
“Dove can try and make it seem like being overweight is okay all they want, but ultimately it’s only okay if you go see a doctor and they tell you that your weight is not an issue. Don’t depend on commercials to make you feel good about yourself, depend on your doctor to make sure you are healthy-not just for yourself but for everyone that loves you.”
“You obviously do not know much about the human body. Sometimes human beings have medical issues in which they have ZERO control of how their bodies store weight. Not everyone is fat by choice. Just as you are not white, black, or brown by choice. Just as you do not contract cancer by choice. Perhaps keeping your thoughts to yourself a little more frequently until you actually know someone is a better way to go about life.”
“I’ll agree that I don’t know Cathleen or how her body works or what kind of issues she has, but I am going to continue putting my opinion out there on topics I care strongly about because I feel that every person’s perspective should be respected, even if it is not one’s own. I would never tell somebody to keep their thoughts to themselves. I feel it is rude, controlling, arrogant, and disrespecting someone’s value as a human with a sentient brain. Thank you for your input though.”
” YOU ARE AMAZING! I don’t care if I’m fat. I don’t care if you are fat. I care about your personality. And yours is amazing.”
“This is AWESOME! I was immediately drawn to her!”
“I’m all for loving yourself but remember according to the World Health Organization, around 2.8 million people die from obesity or over weight related illnesses every year… So love yourself enough to get healthy if you need too, whether fat or thin.”
“I struggled with weight after the birth of my 4th and last child. It can really be hard to lose it. I do love this video. You go girls!”
“It takes a lot of courage to love yourself. Even thin girls are told they aren’t good enough either. What disgusts me the most is when men fat shame women who aren’t even fat.”
“This ad is a huge joke. The common sense idea is for anybody to take responsibility of their own body.”
“Just beautiful. Thank you Cathleen!”
“The point is they don’t need to be told they have health issues. You don’t go around telling people that they have cold when they’re sneezing, they already know it. That is exactly what is not ok. People with health issues should have the ability to live normal lives while they’re trying to solve them.”
“Having a cold is not a significant health threat but being morbidly obese is and a person wouldn’t take it personally if you told them they might be coming down with a cold if they sneezed. If a person wants to put more emphasis into being fat, I mean “awesome” vice taking care of their health (so be it) but why spread the nonsense. Most fat people live normal lives among st society and there are just as many fat women with husbands as there are thin but excessive weight is unhealthy and that’s the bottom line!! She should stop trying to make this something else…”
“I love this! I’m only a little fat and I’m self-conscious about it. This video has helped me expand my horizons, and to see that I’m happy with who I am.”
“Chub is okay. People struggle with their weight and that’s okay. Obesity is crossing the line, it’s just flat out unhealthy.”
“I will never understand labels. A body being large or thin. Skin being a certain hue. Hair color, etc. Cathleen demonstrates the positive process everyone should have. Thank you for that Cathleen. Thank you to the people that gave us this positive video also. 🙂 She got some moves!”
“This is so honest and just beautiful. To all you judgy people, we live in the same reality you do, but none of us know everyones struggles, so stop pretending like you do. And To All the awesome positive and supportive people, keep posting light and outshine the haters.”
“But, deep down inside she wishes she was a size 8, she knows it and so does Dove.”
“I love this video, it is so empowering and everyone should be able to feel great about themselves, and I love this video.”
“Dove is doing this for sales. They know you have to use two soaps to get the same outcome.”
“This dancing is a good thing – for these women any sort of movement/exercise is a positive thing. As far as beauty – it’s in the eye of the beholder. There have been and still are cultures and groups of people that view obese women as beautiful and desirable. There are fetishes for everything out there. But when she talks about negative connotation to the word ‘fat’ she should understand that it’s about HEALTH, not beauty. And being as fat as she – is damaging to her health.”
“This makes my heart so happy! I’ve been watching this video over and over. I’m 18 and I’ve grown up with a mom that fat shames, especially towards me. It’s hard to try and not show her videos like these because it’s so uplifting but I fear she might say something like this..’Those girls are kidding themselves, no one wants to look at that’ I don’t consider myself ‘fat’ but I don’t like my weight. I try to watch videos and read articles about this type of thing because it reminds me that I should love my body. I’m not quite there yet, but I want to be.”
“Dove is just trying to make more money. The fatter the women the more area. They’ll just sell more bars of Dove. If Whales had credit cards they would be in a Dove commercial.”
“Losing weight is 90% diet. All the exercise in the world won’t save you from a bad, unclean diet. Sugar and wheat are evil. Cardio is okay but weights is what you have to do to burn calories and it takes up less time.”
“Thank you so much for posting this on Youtube it changed my view of how I should feel about myself. I’m going to work towards that new goal. I’ve been overweight for most my life and felt bad about it, I can hardly find clothes my size and i was made fun of in school. Again thank you! We need people like you with the inspiration to change the world into a better place. :)”
“This is nice. But the fact is fat is not healthy! Obese people are at a greater risk of diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and every single form of cancer. So really loving self is taking care of your temple.”
“I get the loving yourself concept. But being obese if not healthy and should not be promoted. Love yourself enough to get healthy.”
Hot Topic Wonder Woman Jacket (Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Consumer Products)
The following is an excerpt from a Warner Bros. Consumer Products press release:
As one of the world’s most iconic Super Heroes prepares for her first solo feature film—coming to cinemas worldwide June 2, from Warner Bros. Pictures, Tencent Pictures and Wanda Pictures—Warner Bros. Consumer Products (WBCP), in partnership with DC Entertainment (DCE), celebrates Wonder Woman with an extraordinary collection of trend-driven fashion lines inspired by DC’s Amazon Warrior. From world-renowned fashion house icons to new and emerging designers, to global specialty stores and mass market retailers everywhere, WBCP’s fashion collections’ distinctive styles have been created to reflect that every woman can feel like Wonder Woman in her own right – from the catwalk to the boardroom to the playing field. And with the participation of such lines as Hero Within and Ukonic, there’s something for men of all ages who aspire to feel like Super Heroes, too.
A global cultural touchstone and beloved symbol of empowerment, justice, equality and peace for 75 years, Wonder Woman is inspiring designers from the most coveted fashion houses to lend their talents to benefit the LemLem Foundation, founded by international model and advocate Liya Kebede, whose mission is to improve African women’s lives by promoting access to healthcare and economic opportunities.
Prêt-à-porter pieces from such celebrated designers as Louis Vuitton, Versace, Givenchy, D-Squared, Karl Lagerfeld, Stella McCartney, Kenzo, Lanvin, Roland Mouret, Tommy Hilfiger, Tory Burch, and many more, will be included in this tribute to Wonder Woman, and showcased and auctioned off during an intimate event taking place in Paris, France, on June 7, with all proceeds going to the LemLem Foundation.
An array of designs inspired by Wonder Woman’s unparalleled power, beauty and grace will also be available to the fashion world and fans worldwide as WBCP partners with admired designers and brands to offer up a dynamic lineup of limited-edition collections – from high-end to fast-fashion and everything in between – allowing trendsetters everywhere to channel their inner DC Super Hero.
Collaborations inspired by the effortless style of Wonder Woman, embodied in the film by Gal Gadot, have followed suit, empowering women to take on each day by expressing their own personal style. Collections include the innovative athleisure wear from nuyu, bringing consumers an elevated, luxe and chic performance-fitness line, while Under Armour celebrates Wonder Woman with the roll-out of sleek, high performance wear for every strong woman.
Men’s style is also celebrated with outerwear collections from high-end labels such as Hero Within designed by influential Comic-Con blogger Tony Kim, emerging brand Ukonic, breaking-out in the ecommerce space; to fan-favorite collectibles like New Era, and mass-market licensees including Bioworld, inspiring men of all ages who aspire to feel like Super Heroes, too.
As Wonder Woman is well-known for her iconic silver gauntlets and gold headdress, WBCP has also teamed up with leading accessory and jewelry brands to create fashion-forward bracelets, headbands and more. Nanette Lepore Brand and A Classic Time Watch Co. showcase Wonder Woman’s timelessness with an extravagant watch collection, while Love and Madness offers consumers accessories designed and crafted entirely by women. Contemporary jewelry brand ALEX AND ANI also offers a line of jewelry and highly collectible charm bracelets.
In addition to exclusive boutique stores, WBCP is ensuring accessibility of Wonder Woman-inspired fashion collections all over the world by teaming up with top global and mass market retailers. Best-in-class retail partner GAP continues its global collaboration with WBCP in a capsule collection inspired by the attributes of the iconic DC Super Hero and the film for women, girls, toddlers and babies. Kohl’s will feature an exclusive first-ever DC-inspired Her Universe active wear collection for young women and the young at heart, from juniors to plus sizes. Pop-culture hub Hot Topic brings on a fan-dedicated Her Universe apparel collection in-stores and online—designed for fans by fans—as Her Universe assembled the unique creative team behind this DC Super Hero-inspired collection through a unique design contest held at last year’s International Comic-Con in San Diego; as well as the online retail store for Torrid, which will also have the WW collection in plus sizes. WBCP has also partnered with elite partners, including Mauritius, with its fierce leather jacket collection, from biker jackets to suede and metallic jackets and more; and boutique stores such as Ron Robinson at Fred Segal offering a nuyu-inspired vignette; and Kyle by Alene Too, which will feature a Wonder Woman-themed array of apparel and accessories from established and emerging designers, including a collection of never-before-seen designs from up-and-coming designers that will be featured in the store.
Whether in action or at rest, fans everywhere can channel their inner Wonder Woman in film-inspired apparel and accessories, sleepwear and daywear, jewelry and so much more. Unique style-seekers can also capture exclusive items from HSN as the leading entertainment and lifestyle retailer offers its devoted customers and Wonder Woman fans a unique collection of apparel and accessories, jewelry, personal care products and more, including a special collection exclusive to this collaboration from Benefit Cosmetics with a five-piece unique set, and inspired accessory pieces from American whimsical designer Betsey Johnson. The collection will launch on HSN on June 1 at 9 p.m. EDT, marking HSN’s first-ever partnership with Warner Bros. Consumer Products as part of a strategic alliance to elevate awareness surrounding the film’s release while introducing new collections that inspire fans.
WBCP is thrilled to be able to collaborate with all of our retail and licensing partners to create Wonder Woman-inspired fashion statements that support the Amazon Warrior’s strength, beauty and grace, empowering fans and fashion around the world.
“Wonder Woman” hits movie theaters around the world June 2, 2017, when Gal Gadot returns as the title character in the epic action adventure Wonder Woman. The film also stars Chris Pine, Robin Wright, Danny Huston, David Thewlis, Connie Nielsen and Elena Anaya.
Patty Jenkins directed the film from a screenplay by Allan Heinberg, story by Zack Snyder & Allan Heinberg and Jason Fuchs, based on characters from DC Entertainment. Wonder Woman was created by William Moulton Marston. The film was produced by Charles Roven, Zack Snyder, Deborah Snyder and Richard Suckle, with Stephen Jones, Geoff Johns, Wesley Coller, Jon Berg and Rebecca Steel Roven serving as executive producers.
Warner Bros. Pictures presents, in association with Tencent Pictures and Wanda Pictures, an Atlas Entertainment/Cruel and Unusual production, Wonder Woman. The film is scheduled for release worldwide beginning June 2, 2017, and will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.
Dsquared Wonder Woman-inspired collaboration(Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Consumer Products)
Her Universe Kohls Wonder Woman My Lasso Tank Top (Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Consumer Products)
Her Universe Kohls Wonder Woman Shine Capris (Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Consumer Products)
Alex & Ani Wonder Woman-inspired Charm Bracelet (Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Consumer Products)
Alex & Ani Wonder Woman-inspired Charm Bracelet (Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Consumer Products)
Betsey Johnson Wonder Woman Backpack (Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Consumer Products)
Hot Topic Wonder Woman Bomber Jacket (Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Consumer Products)
New Era Wonder Woman Caps (Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Consumer Products)
Gap Wonder Woman Toddler Girls Red Hoodie (Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Consumer Products)
Kenzo Wonder Woman-inspired collaboration (Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Consumer Products)
Gap Wonder Woman Tank Top (Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Consumer Products)
Versace Wonder Woman-inspired collaboration (Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Consumer Products)
NuYu Wonder Woman-inspired Fitness Line (Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Consumer Products)
NuYu Wonder Woman-inspired Fitness Line (Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Consumer Products)
NuYu Wonder Woman-inspired Fitness Line (Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Consumer Products)
Torrid Wonder Woman-inspired outfit (Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Consumer Products)
Torrid Wonder Woman-inspired outfit (Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Consumer Products)
Her Universe-Hot Topic Wonder Woman Theatrical Theymscira Tank Top (Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Consumer Products)
Nanette Lepore Wonder Woman Ladies Watch with Double Wrap Cuff – bronze (Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Consumer Products)
Nanette Lepore Wonder Woman Ladies Watch with Double Wrap Cuff – white (Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Consumer Products)
Nanette Lepore Wonder Woman Ladies Watch with Double Wrap Cuff – silver (Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Consumer Products)
Miss District of Colombia Kára McCullough wins the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Kára McCollough, a 25-year-old scientist at the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission, was crowned the winner of Miss USA 2017 in a ceremony held on May 14 at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. McCollough’s victory makes it the second year in a row that Miss District of Columbia has won the Miss USA title. McCollough replaces 2016 Miss USA Deshauna Barber.
Coming in second place in the Miss USA 2017 competition was Chhavi Verg, Miss New Jersey. Third place went to Meredith Gould, Miss Minnesota.
Fox had the U.S. telecast of the show, which was hosted by Terrence J and Julianne Hough. Ashley Graham served as backstage host.
The judges were TV personality Carson Kressley, “The Real” co-host Jeannie Mai, former Miss Minnesota contestant Halima Aden, transgender activist/author Janet Mock, Crisis Text Line founder Nancy Lublin and Miss Universe 1997 Brooke Lee. Rap artist Pitbull featuring Stephen “Skip” Marley and country singer Brett Aldredge were the event’s musical performers.
It was clear that McCollough was one of the early frontrunners, since she was prominently featured in promo videos for the pageant. During the telecast, the announcer also mentioned that she was considered one of the smartest USA contestants to be in the pageant. McCollough mentioned several times in interviews and on stage that one of her main goals was to encourage more female participation in science.
In the question portion of the pageant, McCollough was asked, “Do you think affordable health care for all U.S. citizens is a right or a privilege and why?” She answered that it was a privilege. “As a government employee, I am granted healthcare. And I see firsthand that for one to have healthcare, you need to have jobs. So therefore, we we need to continue cultivate this environment that we’re given the opportunity to have jobs as well as healthcare for all American citizens worldwide.”
Top 10 Miss USA 2017 Contestants
Kára McCollough, Miss District of Columbia USA (winner)
Chhavi Verg, Miss New Jersey USA (second place)
Meridith Gould, Miss Minnesota USA (third place)
Whitney Wandland, Miss Illinois USA (Top 5 contestant)
Megan Gordon, Miss South Carolina USA (Top 5 contestant)
Allee-Sutton Hethcoat, Miss Tennessee USA
Hannah Lopa, Miss New York USA
India Williams, Miss California USA
Alyssa London, Miss Alaska USA
Bayleigh Dayton, Miss Missouri USA
Pitbull performs at the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Miss USA 2017 Kára McCullough backstage at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
The Top 5 contestants of the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Miss District of Colombia Kára McCullough at the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Brett Aldredge with the Top 5 contestants of the 2016 Miss USA pageant at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Miss District of Colombia Kára McCullough at the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Miss USA 2016 co-host Julianne Hough and Top 10 contestant India Williams (Miss California) at the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Miss USA 2017 co-host Terrence J and Top 10 contestant Miss Tennessee Allee-Sutton Hethcoat at the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Miss USA 2016 co-host Julianne Hough and Top 10 contestant Bayleigh Dayton (Miss Missouri) at the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Top 10 contestant Miss Tennessee Allee-Sutton Hethcoat at the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Top 10 contestant Miss Missouri Bayleigh Dayton at the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Top 10 contestants Miss New Jersey Chavi Verg and Miss Minnesota Meridith Gould at the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Miss USA co-host Terrence J and Top 10 contestant Miss New Jersey Chavi Verg at the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Top 10 contestant Miss California India Williams at the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Miss USA 2017 co-host Julianne Hough and Top 10 contestant Miss Minnesota Meridith Gould at the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
The Top 10 contestants at the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Miss USA 2017 judges Brook Lee, Jeannie Mai and Halima Aden at the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Miss USA 2017 judges Nancy Lublin, Janet Mock and Carson Kressley at the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
The Top 10 contestants at the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Miss USA 2017 backstage host Ashley Graham at the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Miss Missouri Bayleigh Dayton and Miss South Carolina Megan Gordon at the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Miss Minnesota Meridith Gould and Miss Iowa Kelsey Weier at the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Miss Wisconsin Skylar Witte, Miss California India Williams and Miss Connecticut Olga Litvinenko at the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Miss Pennsylvania Cassandra Angst and Miss New York Hannah Lopa at the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Miss Universe 2015 Iris Mittenaere, Miss USA 2016 Deshauna Barber and Miss Teen USA 2016 Karlie Hay at the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Miss USA 2017 backstage host Ashley Graham, host Terrence J and host Julianne Hough at the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Miss USA 2017 performer Stephen Marley at the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Miss USA 2017 judge Nancy Lublin at the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Miss USA 2017 judge Carson Kressley at the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Miss USA 2017 judge Halima Aden at the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Miss USA 2017 judge Jeannie Mai at the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Miss District of Colombia Kára McCullough (left) wins the 2017 Miss USA competition and is congratulated by Miss USA 2016 Deshauna Barber at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Miss District of Colombia Kára McCullough wins the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Miss District of Colombia Kára McCullough wins the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Miss District of Colombia Kára McCullough wins the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Miss District of Colombia Kára McCullough wins the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Miss District of Colombia Kára McCullough (right) wins the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Miss District of Colombia, Kára McCullough wins the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Miss New Jersey Chavi Verg and Miss District of Colombia Kára McCullough wait to hear who won at the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
Miss District of Colombia Kára McCullough wins the 2017 Miss USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox)
The Top 5 contestants at the 2017 MISS USA competition at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on, May 14, 2017. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Fox).
