Miss Universe Finalist Faces Criticism Over Her Weight, but She Stands Strong
This Miss Universe Contestant Who Placed in the Top 20 Was Called ‘Disgusting’ for Her Weight — Pics
During her participation in the competition, Jane Garrett, the first plus-sized competitor in Miss Universe history to place in the top 20, received both praise and criticism. View breathtaking images of the beauty who spoke up against the hurtful remarks made about her by some.
When competitors from 84 countries competed in the 72nd annual Miss Universe pageant in November 2023, El Salvador was the center of attention. Jane Dipika Garrett, who gracefully and resolutely represented Nepal, was one of them.
Being the first plus-sized delegate in the competition’s history at the young age of 22, Garrett garnered international attention and broke down barriers in a field that is frequently characterized by traditional beauty standards.
She was a Kathmandu native who made an impression in the esteemed competition, which has produced famous champions like Olivia Culpo in the past.
As Miss Universe Nepal, she championed her nation and won over fans with her steadfast advocacy and attractiveness.
A Pioneer on the Stage of Miss Universe
As a nursing student, Garrett shared a strong message of inclusivity, encouraging body acceptance and bringing attention to mental health, PCOS, and hormonal health.
She gained international acclaim for her all-encompassing approach to beauty, which prioritized substance over style. Garrett’s involvement marked a change in the beauty business toward embracing diversity, which went beyond just celebrating her country’s standing on the international scene.
She strutted the runway in a metallic one-piece halterneck swimsuit with confidence. In addition to showcasing her form, the waist ruching sent a message of body confidence.
In the domain of evening gowns, Garrett honored her South Asian heritage. She looked stunning in a figure-hugging dress in red and gold, fusing classic design elements with modern flair. Her enthusiasm in showcasing Nepal and its rich legacy was evident in the elaborate design and striking hues.
Garrett, however, talked candidly about the highs and lows of her experience during her historic run at Miss Universe 2023. Her journey was full with hurdles and victories as the first plus-sized participant to place in the top 20.
Regarding Dismantling Boundaries and Taking Criticism
In a candid interview after leaving Miss Universe 2023, Garrett talked about her battles with self-esteem, her will to motivate others, and the harsh criticism she received along the journey.
Getting into the top 20 was a welcome surprise, Garrett acknowledged. She said the accomplishment was extremely affirming because she had previously struggled with food disorders and low self-esteem. “I really did not expect to get that much applause on the stage or that much spotlight,” she said.
Furthermore, I had no expectations. My sole purpose was to represent both my nation and women worldwide. And I wanted to do it,” Garrett continued.
Not only did her performance on stage receive a lot of plaudits, but it also changed how society views beauty. “I came with a humble heart… but when I won on that stage, I got the loudest applause from the whole entire audience,” she stated.
“And that felt so good because it was like a breakthrough moment for me and for society that they see something different, that they see real-size beauty,” added Miss Universe Nepal.
Garrett celebrated on Instagram with the remark, “Top 20 baby!,” despite the fact that her trip came to an end after she placed in the top 20. I appreciate all of my supporters and admirers. The important thing is that I did my best.
“I’m so proud to be representing real-size beauty around the world and breaking the stereotypes of beauty pageants,” the caption went on to say. I’m incredibly pleased of the new Miss Universe and will always treasure this transformative time in my life.”
Many were encouraged by Garrett’s audacity; one commenter said, “Goddess!” “So beautiful,” posted a different social media user. Third, “Gorgeous baby” was typed, and fourth, “You are very beautiful.”
However, several internet comments criticized her appearance, therefore her presence also drew scathing criticism. One individual remarked, “Lol, I have seen girls much prettier than her.” “Miss Jumbo! “Don’t miss the universe,” someone another wrote. And a third said, “Really! Nothing positive about you can be found.
Garrett claimed that she was conscious of some of the derogatory remarks being made about her. “I see things like ‘That’s disgusting,’ or ‘Oh, she’s a whale.'” I’m going to throw up. ‘She’s encouraging obesity,’ for example.”How about you visit the gym?” and similar stuff. They seem to be unaware of my story as well. She said, “They have no idea what I’m going through.”
Garrett claims that her weight issues were related to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a medical disorder that results in hormonal imbalances and makes it difficult to maintain a stable weight. Therefore, it’s quite simple for us to put on weight. “We can gain weight even if we just look at a piece of cake,” she said.
She had gained a lot of weight as a result of PCOS and hormonal problems, which negatively impacted her mental health and self-esteem because she briefly felt that she wasn’t attractive or good enough.
Looking back on her early years, the South Asian beauty revealed that her desire to be a model caused her to engage in negative activities as she tried to conform to social norms.
“I used to starve myself when I was younger because I wanted to be a model too. I aspired to be a model as a kid, therefore I had a lot of eating disorders and mental health problems,” Garrett said.
She went on to say, “And since that’s just their body type, all the girls around me were really skinny, especially when you’re a teenager. Additionally, I would feel inadequate when I compared myself to many of the girls there.
“I had to really remove all of those messages that were coming from society as well as coming from my own mind,” Garrett said after she had learned to love herself. I therefore had to truly brainwash myself once more in order to love and accept who I am.
She made the decision to ignore the criticism once she was on the Miss Universe stage. “The issue with [the haters] is that they are just criticizing me on social media. I’m not bothered by it. There is a lot of cruelty in society. Sometimes people may be really harsh,” she said.
Garrett persisted in his efforts to redefine beauty standards and advance body positivity in spite of the criticism. “Body positivity, in my opinion, essentially refers to accepting your current body. You embrace who you are, accept it, and love yourself, but you’re also moving in the direction of a healthy lifestyle,” she said.
Garrett made her runway comeback in April 2024, stunning crowds with a glittering body-con dress and demonstrating her unwavering advocacy and confidence.
More than just competition, Jane Garrett’s journey at the 72nd Annual Miss Universe pageant was about dispelling myths and igniting change.
By demonstrating to the world that true beauty defies size and that sincerity always shines brightest, her tenacity created an enduring impression on the beauty business.
