Leila Lopes, a business student from Angola, was crowned Miss Universe 2011 at the 60th Annual Miss Universe Pageant broadcast Live from São Paulo, Brazil on September 12, 2011. Instead of wearing her hair long and flowing, she opted for a regal, crown-ready updo that highlighted her striking features.
Farouk Systems Global Artistic Board and lead pageant stylist, Tammy Mixon, styled the winning look Leila wore throughout the evening and shares how easy it is to recreate the elegant style that brings the focus to her face.
She says: “Leila has thick hair and I prepped it with Farouk Royal Treatment by CHI Pearl Complex to replenish and add moisture. For a sleek finish, use a CHI Ceramic Hairstyling Iron to smooth the surface layer before securing hair into a high pony tail. If hair is heavy like Leila’s, start with pulling top and sides back into a high pony tail and pull remaining hair to it and secure. Use Farouk Royal Treatment by CHI Ultimate Control Hairspray to slick down loose hairs for a smooth surface. Attach circular filler behind the pony tail and distribute hair evenly to cover the filler and pin ends underneath. Finish with Farouk Royal Treatment by CHI Rapid Shine for an elegant, crown-worthy updo.”
Leila credits her regal updo for helping her to win the crown. “I chose this updo to highlight sharp features in my face, and to stand out from most other contestants who chose to wear their hair down,” says Leila. “Also, the crown fits perfectly around this hairstyle!”
In her new role as Miss Universe, Leila’s main focus is to serve as a spokeswoman for HIV/AIDS awareness, and to be a role model for women all over the world. She will travel nationwide as an advocate for organizations such as AID for Aids, Latino Commission on AIDS, Operation Smile and Same Sky Trade Initiative.
Images courtesy of Farouk Systems, Inc.
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