Miss USA is a Henri's Girl!

On May 14th, 2017, Miss District of Columbia, Kára McCullough, was crowned the new Miss USA by Deshauna Barber wearing a custom evening gown designed by Henri’s team of pageant professionals!

ABOUT KARA

Kára McCullough was born in Naples, Italy. The daughter of a United States Marine, Kára grew up in a number of places including Sicily, South Korea, Japan and Hawaii.

She attended South Carolina State University in Orangeburg, South Carolina where she studied chemistry with a focus in radiochemistry. Kára served as the school’s 75th Miss South Carolina State University and graduated in 2013.

Described by Miss USA pageant officials as “one of the most intelligent contestants in recent memory,” McCullough currently works as a scientist at the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission.

Kára competed at Miss District of Columbia USA twice before being crowned in 2017. She placed first runner-up in 2015 and in 2016 to Deshauna Barber, Miss USA 2016.

“Just take your time. Understand the process is so much more important to focus on than just looking toward the outcome,” Kára said in a backstage interview just moments after taking her first walk as Miss USA 2017.

ABOUT THE DRESS

Kára’s custom evening gown, which she wore during the preliminary competition and during finals, was designed by Henri’s pageant professionals and created by Sherri Hill.

The slim-flitted, ivory, silk charmeuse skirt swept across the stage with elegance and grace, while the cross-hatched, beaded bodice – adorned with shimmering Swarovski crystals – added just enough sparkle to accentuate Kára’s stunning smile and beautiful, natural hair.

Kára’s dress was sketched by Sherri Hill in person at Henri’s Cloud Nine in Columbus, Ohio.

“My first impression of her was that she was absolutely gorgeous,” said Josh Vietmeier, General Manager for Henri’s.

During her visit to Henri’s Columbus, Kára captured the hearts of everyone in the store. This beauty queen took the time to introduce herself to each and every Henri’s employee, and was a gracious guest.

We could not be happier for this intelligent, articulate, and talented young lady! And we look forward to following her journey as Miss USA 2017!