My favorite articles are the ones in which I connect directly to our readers. When one question is asked, there is always many more who need that information. So as I go through a very full mailbox I will answer the most asked questions. As always please email your questions to info@pageantdiva.com and see them either in the “Ask The Diva’s” column or right here on “Swimsuits with Julie”...

Q: I am competing in an upcoming local Miss USA preliminary pageant and I really need to know about a spray for your bottom. What is it called and where can find it? Please help!

 

A: A true insider tip. The spray you seek is made by Cramer’s and called “Firm Grip”. This spray in a whit can is found in sports stores and is used for football players to improve catching abilities. In pageantry we use it to prevent the classic “Swimsuit Slide”. Feel free to use the buddy system when applying spray. Also be careful not to over spray as that will lead to a bottom that clings to your gown. Suggestion, practice and learn the proper amount of spray needed before you compete.

 

 

Q: I am only 5’ 2” and feel that to win I have to be at least 5’ 7” to compete. Would 5” heels make me look taller? What are the pro’s and cons?

 

A: To start with size does not eliminate a contestant. I have seen several winners under 5’ 4”. This past Miss Teen USA pageant Miss California Teen USA was around 5’ even. Maybe there is a smaller margin for error but I do not believe that it is such a disadvantage as you may think. Confidence, poise, fashion style and personality win pageants as well as swimsuit competitions.

 

So let start with the pro’s of 5” heels….actually there are none! I will make your walk uncomfortable and unnatural. My suggestion is a 3” heel in taupe. Taupe has the ability to blend into your leg coloring thus giving the illusion of longer, sleeker legs.  

 

 

Q: I am large chested but slender otherwise. I am trying to downplay my chest line to make a more even looking figure. Any suggestions?

 

A; It is true that some tops can distract from the contestant and the over all presentation. De-emphasize the bust line with either a fuller top or tube top. A form fitting tankini can also give you balance in your figure so you will appear proportionate to the judges. To many women go for a busty look and forget it’s about the entire figure looking toned and proportionate.

 

 

Q: I am Afro-American competing in my first local Miss America preliminary pageant. My skin tone is dark and I would like to find a swimsuit color that will help me show off the hard work I have put in at the gym!

 

A: The answer is easy, Jewel tones will pop off of your skin tones and allow for accentuation of your hard work. The jewel tone family includes Sapphire Blue, Ruby Red and color like this that will really pop off your skin. Great colors, good suit cuts and strong confidence win this competition. Good Luck!

 

 

Q: Julie, what does one do with a navel piercing? Should I take it out during competition?

 

A: My suggestion is to take it out during the pageant. Even though I am seeing more and more contestants who keep their piercing(s) in during competition, I still tend to frown on anything that will distract the eye of the judges during the time you want them to focus on the symmetry of your figure. Pageants still tend to be more on the conservative side I would say it’s not time yet to make a stand on navel pierces.