Miss Universe Singapore 2018 finalists go short, get sassy at Apgujeong Hair Studio
For Miss Universe Singapore (MUS) 2018 finalist Ameerah Smith, her naturally kinky and curly hair used to be what her peers poked fun at during her secondary school days.
The 23-year-old pastry chef, whose parents are African-American and Arab, told The New Paper: "I hated my hair because I didn't know what to do with it.
"When I was in school, I was called mean names like 'mop', 'sponge' and 'Maggi', but the only thing I could do was to simply ignore it.
"Alternatively, I would give a death stare and the name-calling would stop."
Cut to today and Miss Smith is having the last laugh, as her unique textured tresses are drawing attention for all the right reasons.
Last week, she received a hair treatment as well as "finger twists" to help maintain and easily manage her hair at a session at the Jurong Point outlet of Apgujeong Hair Studio, the official hair sponsor for MUS.
She added: "I currently have a side shave, so I plan to put my hair to the side for the MUS finale. I want to embrace my natural hair because it is not the typical 'Miss Universe' hair that you see. That makes me stand out from the rest."
Miss Mohanaprabha - the only finalist rocking short hair this year - took the bold step of cutting her chin-length bob even shorter into a pixie style by Mr Kyle Shin, the chief director stylist of Apgujeong Hair Studio.
The 23-year-old PSB Academy student said: "Beauty is not a one-size-fits-all template.
"I want to embrace my short hair for the finale, and if this hairstyle works best for me, I will choose to flaunt it.
"Looking at my even shorter hair now, I feel like it brings out my eyes better."
Miss Chloe Padirac, who now boasts a shoulder-length style, also feels more confident with her shorter hairdo.
The 26-year-old reiki practitioner said: "I have wavy to curly hair and it might appear messy sometimes. But thanks to Apgujeong Hair Studio, I have a neater haircut, which is more manageable and easier to maintain. I still keep my curls, but it is more tame now."
Mr Shin said: "I am really happy and honoured for Apgujeong to be the official hair sponsor for MUS.
"It is a good experience for our hairstylists as we get to extend our services outside of the conventional hair salon or studio and be part of the backstage crew in such a prestigious beauty pageant.
"Regardless if you are a beauty queen or not, having a good haircut that follows your face shape accordingly is important." - TATIANA MOHAMAD ROSLI
Get The New Paper on your phone with the free TNP app. Download from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store now
