Fashion

Miss America 2016 Was All About The Cut-Out Trend

by Eliza Florendo

We all know that 2015 was the year of the cut-out and peekaboo — looks seen both on the runway and city streets. It seems that this trend has infiltrated the Miss America 2016 pageant as well, where even its very own host, Brooke Burke-Charvet, took her second outfit change as a chance to show off a stunning black jumpsuit with a skin-showing cut-out.

What started out as a huge style on runways in 2013, the cutout trend has been hitting the fashion world by storm. Victoria Beckham, Sass & Bide, and Versace were just a few of the fashion houses that showcased cut-outs in their collections. From there, we saw the look popping up on celebs like Jennifer Lawrence, Taylor Swift at the Billboard Awards, and even Kylie Jenner.

Honestly, who can not love the sexy trend that allows one to show just a bit of skin, whether it's via a shoulder cut-out, side cut-out, or even a stomach one like Ms. Burke-Charvet's? Paired with an ultra high pony and strappy sandals, she looked ridiculously chic. I love the modern feel of the jumpsuit — and incorporating a cut-out like that one adds just a bit of edgy fun that the pageant is known for. While I did love her stunning white gown that she opened the show with, this outfit looks much more comfortable.

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Also rocking the trend was Amy Purdy in a bejeweled dress with a high neckline. Her black gown (which also had a mini-train) featured side cut-outs and a whole lot of beads. I'm totally loving the mosaic look, which adds a pop to the otherwise monochromatic dress. With gold chandelier earrings, side swept curls, and a statement cuff on her arm, Purdy definitely looked pageant ready.

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Griffin Arnlund, famous YouTube sensation, combined the cut-out trend with another huge look from 2015 that we all love: Separates. This may actually be my favorite look of the night as I just love the nude color throughout. Plus, midi skirts are my new obsession. The long-sleeved top adorned with white criss-crossed straps gave off a classy bondage look that I was totally into. With her hair in a simple pony, a black mani and pedi, and basic nude heels, she absolutely killed it.

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Miss Georgia (now Miss America 2016) Betty Cantrell also rocked a cut-out (or possibly a two piece) for the evening wear competition. Clad in an all-white ensemble, it was certainly a sexier gown than we're used to, but I think that risk paid off. Her gown totally stood out, and it was refreshing to see one of the contestants keeping up with the trends.

Based on the looks at Miss America 2016, it seems the the cut-out trend is here to stay, possibly making its way into fall.