The Miss Cote d’Ivoire 2025 beauty pageant has officially banned the use of weaves, wigs, and hair extensions during the competition’s preselection stages.
For the first time in pageant history, contestants will be required to showcase their natural hair, whether it be long, short, braided, or shaved.
The decision is being hailed as a step toward embracing African authenticity and natural beauty, as the organizing committee seeks to highlight the power and confidence that comes with embracing one’s true self.
The pageant’s president, Victor Yapobi, explained that the change reflects the goal of promoting African beauty standards and contrasts with the trend in other global beauty pageants, such as Miss Universe, where many contestants wear wigs and hairpieces.
A Push for Self-Acceptance and Confidence
The new rules were inspired in part by Marlene Kouassi, who won Miss Cote d’Ivoire in 2022 and competed with short hair, challenging the conventional beauty norms.
Kouassi’s victory demonstrated the growing shift towards natural beauty in African pageantry. This initiative aims to empower contestants to embrace their natural features, fostering a sense of self-acceptance and confidence.
“I am beyond excited that African beauty will be celebrated in its natural state,” said Khadijah Bee, a beautician on Instagram. “This will encourage us black women to rock our melanin beauty more.”
Mixed Reactions on Social Media
While many have applauded the decision, the move has sparked debate. Supporters of the ban, such as Maxine, argue that it will save contestants money and set an example for other nations to follow.
However, critics voiced concern that the new rule could be seen as an imposition.
“That should be a choice, not an obligation,” a critic commented, pointing out that contestants in other countries, such as those in Miss Universe, frequently wear hair extensions.
Other Changes to Miss Cote d’Ivoire 2025
In addition to the hair policy, other adjustments have been made to the competition’s requirements.
The minimum height for contestants has been reduced from 1.68 meters to 1.67 meters, and the age limit has been extended from 25 to 28 years.
The Miss Cote d’Ivoire 2025 pageant will culminate in a grand crowning event on June 26, 2025.
