Kylie Holton places 2nd at National pageant

Holmes County local and Poplar Springs senior Kylie Holton recently placed second at the World’s Perfect Teen pageant in Orlando. She represented our area as North Florida’s Perfect Teen and was up against young women 16-19 years old from around the world. 

The competition categories included on-stage questions; “wow wear,” which are original designs by the pageant for delegates to model; swimwear; and formal wear. 

In the first stage of competition, Holton explained what southern hospitality means to her. 

“Southern hospitality is about a feeling of being welcome. It isn’t just a catchphrase to us. It’s a way of life. Everyone will be welcomed with sweet tea and home cooking,” said Holton.

After preliminary swimwear and formal wear portions of the pageant, she placed in the Top 12. Those 12 contestants competed again in swimwear and formal wear for their spot in the coveted Top 5 selection. 

Holton brought back her signature “reveal” for formal wear, donning a white drape that she removed to show her silver evening gown. 

Holton was the first to hear her name called for a Top 5 placement and found herself taking home second runner up for the title of World’s Perfect Teen. She also won an additional title, World’s Perfect Teen Fashionista, based on attire and modeling ability.

“I am so grateful to have represented North Florida at this level. I couldn’t be here without my family and community backing me the entire way,” said Holton. “It means a lot to me that I was able to make Holmes County proud.”

• Editor’s note: Reporter Natalie Holton is Kylie Holton’s sister.