The ESSENCE Style and Beauty Awards is a brand new event held in association with the UK Hotlist. The mission of ESSENCE was to clear out the tired and cliqueched format associated with American style beauty pageants and replace it with something fresh, innovative and exciting. The first ESSENCE show, held on Sunday September 12th exceeded all expectations and succeeded in blending the style of a fashion show with the excitement of a beauty pageant, along with an evening of high-energy live entertainment.

Local contestants and UK Hotlist models were selected for the final on Sunday September 14th 2008, where they were judged not just on their beauty but also on their own individual style, elegance and charisma.

At the ESSENCE show, all contestants got professional hair and makeup styling, had time with a professional choreographer then got to strut, pose and flaunt in front of the appreciative audience, as well as their own family and friends.

There were three categories in the competition. The “STYLE” prize was awarded to the contestant who showed best taste in contemporary urban fashion. The “ELEGANCE” prize was awarded to the contestant whose elegance and grace stood out above all others in the evening dress section of the competition. In the “ATTITUDE” parade, all contestants wore matching black swimwear. With the playing field levelled, contestants used their own innate, character, personality and attitude to shine through.

Along with the judging panel, each member of the audience had the opportunity to vote for their favourite and winners of the £1000 cash prize fund.

The audience voted Ellie Hilton as their Overall Winner. Along with her prize money, Ellie was presented with a special ESSENCE winner's necklace.

The Judging panel awarded 2 x Miss England Finalist Vicki Omlo the" Style" and "Elegance" awards. Newcomer Emily Brown strutted to victory in the "Attitude" Parade.

More from the ESSENCE Style and Beauty Awards coming soon! UK Hotlist members are automatically entered in to the selection phase. So, if you are not already a member and want to take part in future ESSENCE events, register a free UK Hotlist profile today!