NASSAU, Bahamas ? It was an evening of glamour and glitz as the 84 Miss Universe contestants participated in the Evening Gown competition.

Miss Bahamas, Kiara Sherman, dazzled in a one-shoulder sequined cream coloured creation with chiffon detailing designed by Toronto-based Trinidadian designer and pageant coach, Bobby Ackbarali, a 30-year veteran in the field. (Photo: Associated Press by Tim Aylen)NASSAU, Bahamas ? It was an evening of glamour and glitz as the 84 Miss Universe contestants participated in the Evening Gown competition.

The Preliminary Competition for the Evening Gown segment was held on Sunday, August 16 at the Imperial Ballroom, Atlantis Resort and Casino. The Miss Universe contestants got the opportunity to dress in formal attire.

This segment is one of the three areas contestants are judged on before the scores are tallied to determine who will win the coveted crown. The other two are the swimsuit competition and the interview all of which are conducted before the final telecast on August 23.

To date, the 84 contestants have participated in the swimsuit competition, which was held in Freeport, Grand Bahama, with a repeat representation during the Evening Gown segment on Sunday.

The contestants also underwent a one-on-one interview on Monday, August 17 in which judges chose the top 15 contestants who will be announced on the evening of the competition.

The event commenced with the 84 contested parading in swimsuits in alphabetical order in groups of 15 each time. Each contestant wore a two-piece swimsuit featuring a white top and multi-coloured bikini.

For the Evening Competition, Miss Bahamas, Kiara Sherman donned a one-shoulder sequined cream coloured creation with chiffon detailing. Noted Toronto-based Trinidadian designer and pageant coach, Bobby Ackbarali, a 30-year veteran in the field, designed the garment.

Ackbarali also coached Miss Sherman for three weeks in etiquette and image consulting prior to the competition. In addition, he designed Miss Sherman?s entire wardrobe for the 2009 Miss Universe Competition.

Entertainment for the evening was provided by British pop sensation, Anthony Wright, who performed two of his songs from his latest album.

The contestants will also participate in a motorcade scheduled for Thursday, August 20. The motorcade will start at the Arawak Cay , travel west on West Bay Street and end at the Sheraton Nassau Beach Hotel on Cable Beach.

Photo: Miss Ecuador, Sandra Vinces, shows off some leg. (Photo: Associated Press by Tim Aylen)


Call Atlantis box office on 363-6601 or click HERE for more details.

By BIS / Photos: Associated Press by Tim Aylen