Miss Teen USA Kaliegh Garris Opens Up About Wearing Natural Hair for Competition

Kaliegh Garris shares a cute moment with the new Miss USA 2019 Cheslie Kryst during the pageant held at Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada on Thursday night (May 2).

Just a few days earlier, the 18-year-old student was crowned Miss Teen USA 2019 on the same stage.

With Cheslie and Kaliegh‘s wins, this makes two new queens who wore their natural hair to win the crown.

“The night before, I finger curled every single piece of my hair in the shower, which led to a very long shower, but it was for the greater good,” Kaliegh shared with Refinery29 about her curly afro. “I know what I look like with straight hair, with extensions, and with my curly hair, and I feel more confident and comfortable with my natural hair.”

She added the importance of wearing it natural, “When I was younger, I debated if it was the right thing. But as I’ve gotten older, it makes me feel unique.”

“As Miss Connecticut Teen USA, there are girls who would look at me in awe because they’ve always had the image of straight hair in pageants,” Kaliegh continued. “Being able to spread the message of diversity, being yourself, and being confident in your curly, natural hair is something that I’m really looking forward to with my new national title.”