With a defiant pixie cut, 20-year-old Eve Gilles from near Dunkirk smashed the 100-year Miss France mold, becoming the first contestant with short hair to claim the crown. This milestone victory marks a shift towards inclusivity and redefines beauty standards.

Celebrating Individuality:

Gilles embraced her win as a celebration of individuality, stating, “No one should dictate who you are.” She challenged the pageant’s past emphasis on flowing locks and femininity, paving the way for diverse beauty.

Androgynous Look and Mixed Reactions:

Her bold androgynous look sparked both praise and criticism. While many lauded it as refreshing progress, others dismissed it as politicized or “woke.” Unfazed, Gilles stayed focused on her message of self-acceptance and defying outdated beauty norms.

Standing Strong Against Criticism:

Facing negativity towards her thin frame and short hair, Gilles emphasized her agency in choosing her hairstyle. “I can’t change my body or metabolism,” she countered, urging acceptance of things beyond one’s control.

More Than Just Hair:

Gilles, a mathematics and statistics student, aspires to inspire young girls in STEM. She believes making these subjects engaging can spark a love for science and math.

Modernizing Miss France:

The pageant’s recent efforts to include married and transgender contestants, remove the age limit, and accept visible tattoos are criticized as superficial, with the core beauty standards still seen as sexist.

Beyond the Stereotypes:

Gilles rejects being defined by her hairstyle. “I’m not unique because of my hair, I’m unique because I’m Eve,” she states. Her vision goes beyond being the “Miss with short hair,” aiming to be a symbol of empowerment and diversity for all women.

A Milestone for Inclusivity:

Gilles’ victory is a historic moment, not just for her, but for challenging narrow beauty definitions. Her win pushes Miss France and society towards a more diverse and inclusive future.