The Miss Virtual World 2009 pageant was held December 6th in the glamorous four-sim Patch Thibauld Auditorium, where the eighteen finalists were presented to the judges and an audience of over two hundred AVs, while they contended for the crown. Hosted in live text chat by Frolic Mills and Giela Delpaso, the pageant including some amazing live entertainment. The evening’s events culminated with the announcement of model Mimmi Boa as Miss Virtual World 2009.

The entertainment for the first half of the evening consisted of two acts. The opening act, narrated by Frolic Mills and dedicated to all content creators in Second Life, told the story of the evolution of Second Life with five noob performers morphing into twelve fully costumed avatar dancers as the music hit a crescendo and the stage walls and lights appeared. Costumes for act one were designed by Devon Dinzeo and June Dion of BareRose, and dancers were provided by the Boulevard Agency.

A representative of the Miss Virtual World Organization told me in IM, “While this event celebrates the content creators in SL, we are also indebted to our sponsors, without whom this event would not be possible. We are very grateful they choose to support this organization.”

Miss Virtual World 2009 Pageant sponsors are Nokia, 3d Concepts, First Meta, Mandinka Estates, XR Skins, Minnu Model Skins, Runway Magazine, Chateau de Versailles, AWM Advertising, and the Metaverse Broadcasting Company, Dyldam Construction Company, JC Designs and Ohana Land.

The Patch Thibaud Auditorium itself could easily be reckoned as much a participant in the festivities as a backdrop. The auditorium, built by noted architect Patch Thibaud, is situated on four Sims to “help reduce lag and to have larger audiences.” The auditorium’s Deco-style design lent glitz and drama to the affair with it’s deep rich green and red hues, gold detail, and simple, yet bold, lines and curves.

When asked for his opinion on the events of the evening, Patch replied, “In the end, everything I create and build, no matter how large or elaborate, is simply a backdrop, a setting, for people and what they do, from simply hanging out to the largest of large events. And that is as it should be … while my chandeliers may have glittered, the audience glittered even more, and the lovely MVW contestants glittered most of all.”

 And glitter they did, from the costumed performers to the audience decked out in their finest to the eighteen finalists, who were introduced in their national costumes: Miss Australia Chalice Carling, Miss Brazil Sally Yachvilli, Miss Canada Alexa Trefoil, Miss Costa Rica Maxie Daviau, Miss Czech Republic Lacey Alderson, Miss Denmark Aleida Rhode, Miss Egypt Candi Dreamscape, Miss Finland Tiffany Dragonash, Miss France EmmZ Tzara, Miss Greece ZoeAnastasia Aeon, Miss Ireland RhiannaLynn Lane, Miss Italy Mimmi Boa, Miss Japan Haruka Kish, Miss Spain Isis Seville, Miss Sweden Kate Stockholm, Miss United Kingdom Barbarella Fuosing, Miss United States Arabella Graves, and Miss Venezuela Kyrinnia Desmoulins.

Miss Egypt Candi Dreamscape in National Costume

Miss USA Arabella Graves in National Costume

After the introduction of the finalists in national dress came the swimsuit competition which was followed by an intermission with a dance and particle show by the ChangHigh Trinity Sisters.

The second part of the evening featured the finalists in their evening gowns, followed by the announcement of Miss Congeniality and Miss Elegance. Haruka Kish was chosen as Miss Elegance at the Crystal Ball during the previous week, and Kate Stockholm was voted Miss Congeniality by the other contestants. The well-spoken Kate Stockholm confided to me after the pageant that she is quite content with her title of Miss Congeniality, and added, with a wink, that being voted the “nicest person in the virtual universe is not so bad either.”

Kate Stockhom - Miss Congeniality

The judges then deliberated to determine the final five finalists, and each of those five ladies answered a question from a judge of their choice. Isabel Brocco, Miss Virtual World 2008, then joined the ladies on stage to make her farewell, and Miss Virtual World 2009 was announced.

MVW 2009 Judge Maggie Mahoney

Judges for the Miss Virtual World 2009 contest are Elisne Allen (Model, Photographer, Miss Photogenic 2008), Devon Dinzeo (CEO, Dinzeo Designs), Joy Laperriere (VP, First Meta), Maggie Mahoney (CEO, Runway Magazine), Maximilian March (CEO, March Industries), Minnu Palen (CEO, Glam World), Raven Pennyfeather (CEO, House of Rfyre), Deco Straff (RL Lawyer, Virtual Law Specialist), and Maddox Dupont (CEO, KMADD).

Miss Virtual World 2009 winner, Mimmi Boa’s walk across the stage marked the apex of a journey of healing and recovery that began for her years ago when her RL modeling career was cut short by a tragic hit and run accident. “OMG! I was astonished at first because I didn't expect it,” Mimmi stated when describing her initial reaction to the judges’ decision. She continued:

“I was crying in front of my PC. I'm so happy and proud, and this victory means a lot to me … I know most of you maybe are thinking this is only a pixel world, but I'm really happy. This is a vindication for me … for my RL fate. I was a model in RL, and before one of the most important events of my career I had a terrible car crash. I spent almost two years in a wheel chair, and my career was destroyed. It was a nightmare, and I want to say that I'm in good health now; I walk, I run, I'm good, and am nice looking, but I couldn't forget how I felt in those damned two years … and I was only 21 years old. So for me, SL and the modeling keeps my dream alive, and my dream comes true on December 6th.

“My personal quote is ‘beauty is a breathe ... personality is forever,’ and despite the scars on my right cheek, I feel I'm more beautiful now than ever before.”

Mimmi pledged, “I will do my best to keep high the flag of this organization, and I will be present whenever the organization needs me, and I will be available for charity events and for all good causes. I really want to be a very nice and elegant ‘queen’ but also the Mimmi of before at the same time. I won't allow this crown to change me.”

Frolic Mills said, “Mimmi is a very hard working lady who truly enjoys working and helping others. I think she will be a fantastic ambassador for the Miss Virtual World organization.

“Miss Virtual World was the combined effort of many talented artists, and even though there were some technical difficulties, the show was a total success.”

When asked questioned about his favorite moment of the evening, Mills replied, “Without a doubt the evening gown competition! The bar was raised not only by the Miss Virtual World Organization but also by the fashion designers. Quite frankly, I have never seen so much talent together on the same runway!”

Represented on the stage throughout the event were designs by Raven Pennyfeather of Rfyre, Ziamela Loon of Jador, Elikapeka Tiramisu of ETD, Sanders Beaumont of Fleur de Lis, Callie Cline, DBS Heart, Sue Stonebender, Nardya Rousellot, Neferia Abel of Ivalde, Katlaya Greggan, Moxie Polano, Mami Jewell, Edo Tone of Styles of Edo, June Dion of BareRose, Gift Broek from Asian Handsome, Machang Pinchot of Aoharu, Trinity Clift of Alhambra, Ginger Chevalier, Cerberus Noel of *GF*, Simone Stern, Ashoka Eales, Leezu Baxter, Elettra Gausman, Bax Coen, ViciV, Bandit, Mirai Shan, Sissy Pessoa of Baiastice, Sky Everett, Indyra Seigo, Bianca Foulon, Zullay Couture, Sparkle Skye, Amutey DeCuir, AnaLeeb Balut, Migi Voom of Muism, Alienbear Gupte, Purple Rose Jewelry, Minx Shoes, Paper Couture, Dela, Shai Delacroix of Casa Del Shai, and many more.

From the opening act to the final announcement, this pageant’s real stars were the designers - the fantastically talented content creators in SL. Frolic Mills stated before the pageant, “You see, everything I do in SL is really a celebration of the incredible talents that are available to all of us within this virtual platform; and what is Miss Virtual World but a celebration of great skin, fashion, hair, jewelry and shoe designers? That's all it is! The winning girl, aside from having a great social personality, will be the one who has great taste and the ability to play around with these elements to create a harmonious and flawless look.”

Harmonious and flawless definitely described Miss Virtual World 2009 Mimmi Boa that evening. Mimmi wore an extravagant gown designed by Mami Jewell and Edo Tone of Styles of Edo. The incredibly talented Edo and Mami transformed their pearl gown into this stunning and elegant silk masterpiece with a texture representing Michelangelo's “Universal Judgment” from the Sistine Chapel. Mimmi explained the design of her gown, saying, “The country gown is incredible, realized with the texture of the "Universal Judgment" by Michelangelo. I choose it to represent Italy because my country, for me, is art, beauty, and history!” Mimmi’s hair was a custom-toned version of Sky Everett’s "Rivenspire." Mimmi commented on her hair choice, saying, “the iconography of Italia, when it is represented as woman, wears a gold crown so I choose a very big hairstyle with a gold crown and jewels. Italy is a masterpiece, and I wanted to do my best in representing my country in the very best way possible.”

Mimmi’s evening gown choice was ALB Mata Red, customized with ALB Hillary Corset Lipstick, by AnaLeeb Balut. Described in the ceremony as “a symphony of pink, salmon, and oranges for this incredible gown created in silk, lace and tulle.” Composed of a pink silk corset with laced open back, covered by two panels in salmon hued tulle. It’s heavy silk skirt is made in three different tones of orange accompanied by some additional transparent tulle draping. This breathtaking ensemble was completed with a pair of laced pink and salmon tulle gloves and a simple pony tail hair style. When quizzed about her hair choice, Mimmi smiled and relied, “Sometimes Elegance means to avoid excess.”

Miss Virtual World 2009 Mimmi Boa in evening gown by AnaLeeb Balut

Haruka Kish in National Costume by June Dion

First runner up, Miss Japan Haruka Kish, wore June Dion‘s custom design "Kanata" as her national dress. Kanata means “far away distance” in Japanese. It’s cloth is made of a splashed pattern, and the Obi is a Japanese Indigo blue. Its style is a combination of both Japanese and Western elements much like "viewing Second life from a Kanata" June Dion said. Gift Broek from Asian Handsome designed the custom tattoo of Ume blossoms (Japanese apricot) in the traditional Japanese style for Kanata.

Haruka Kish in evening gown by Migi Voom of Muism

Haruka Kish wore the Lace Chiffon Dress for her evening gown, custom designed by Migi Voom of Muism. The strapless form-fitting scalloped top bodice is comprised of white chiffon with a black lace overlay with a trio perfectly formed black silk corsage flowers set beneath the bust line. Its skirt is a cascade of tiered chiffon layers, white with cafe au lait edges and a delicately abstract floral motif. Haruka accented her look with the “Princess Carita Black” jewelry set by Alienbear Gupte, who also designed the Miss Virtual World crown, and sported custom poses by manmoth Nishi of Body Language by *Sweet*Lovely*Cute*.

EmmZ Tzara in National Costume by RFyre

Second runner-up, Miss France EmmZ Tzara, donned RFyre's “Lily“ for her national dress. Described in the pageant as “reminiscent of Alexander McQueen with its mix of burnt bronze leather and chocolate and gold embroidered satin,” the Lily features a supple leather corset with a fleur de lis cummerbund and dramatic stiff regal collar. It’s skirt is a tight and sexy tailored piece complimented by spectacular fleur de lis motif stockings. The highlight of the outfit is, of course, its bustle of ethereal golden brown taffeta. EmmZ looked like a modern Marie Antoinette in the Lily’s puffs and bows.

EmmZ Tzara in custom evening gown by Zullay Couture

EmmZ’s evening gown was a custom creation designed exclusively for EmmZ. This sophisticated and clean lined Zullay Couture gown used rich satin in deep scarlet and a contrasting pewter, the gown boasts an elegant train exposing the delicate mesh underskirt for a truly feminine look. The details include seaming on the bodice, metallic buttons along the back and ruffled full length gloves.

Miss Brazil Sally Yachvili

Third runner-up, Miss Brazil Sally Yachvili, wore a gown described by the host as a “carnival of color and movement” inspired by the skies and fauna her native Brazil. Made of peacock feathers, crystal accents, and rich blue iridescent silk taffeta with a “mermaid style train of precious layers,” this knock out gown was designed by Elettra Gausman. Sally’s beaded evening gown, also an elegant creation by Elettra Gausman, was inspired by Charlize Theron's Versace gown called Star Venice.

Chalice Carling in National Dress by Eshi Otawara

Fourth Runner-up was Miss Australia Miss Chalice Carling. Chalice’s national dress, dubbed “Chalice - Queen of the Desert,” was the result of a collaboration with designer Eshi Otawara. When describing the Emu-inspired gown, Eshi said, “There are so many magical things about Australia. Its deserts, its wildlife, its colorful history and people...This dress was inspired by the spirit of Australia, incorporating a few authentic elements. The dress represents Australian deserts, the way they would look under the deep night sky."

Chalice Carling in evening gown by Leezu Baxter

For her evening gown, Chalice wore a stunning design by Leezu Baxter. The deep violet and beige ombre raw silk skirt is overlaid with sheer embellished floral tulle and sculpted floral organza. The bodice is cut in a sophisticated halter style using silk and tulle with hand-beaded floral appliqués. The gown is accessorized with matching ombre silk gloves, beaded tulle shawl, and ornate fan headpiece. Leezu Baxter announced that when this gown is released in her store, all proceeds from it’s sale will be donated to the Kiva Organization.

Miss Virtual World 2009 Mimmi Boa

What is a Miss Virtual World, aside from that “winning personality?” She is a lady who takes the best SL has to offer and creates an elegant and stylish appearance. In that sense, it could be argued that there were eighteen Miss Virtual Worlds on the stage that evening, but unfortunately there can only be one. Miss Mimmi Boa will reign as Miss Virtual World until next December, and carries a responsibility to further define that role. When discussing his vision for Miss Virtual World, Frolic Mills said, “I have always thought of Miss Virtual World as a philanthropist - a girl who really wants to help others and yet be quite glamorous about it. We will be working very hard to achieve this goal this year.” There can be no doubt, given her past involvement with charities such as Make a Wish, Relay For Life, and the "Maseno project," that Mimmi will not disappoint.

The Miss Virtual World organization has succeeded in its mission in celebrating the beauty and talent in SL once again this year, which leads to the next obvious question - what will Frolic do next year to top this year’s Miss Virtual World pageant???

--Written by Umberto Giano