Miss World Cayman hosts 3rd annual Bow & Stilettos fundraising event

Bows & Stilettos was a fashionable fundraiser

On Saturday, February 18th, titleholders and past contestants of Miss World Cayman Islands (MWCI), as well as members of the MWCI Organization’s Girl Power Cayman program, brought fashion to life at the home of AL and Melissa Thompson, (Sea Alissa) on South Church Street, treating audience members to a fashion show as part of fundraising efforts to assist reigning Miss World Cayman Islands, Leanni Tibbetts as she prepares to represent the Cayman Islands at the 71st edition of Miss World to be held in Dubai later this year.

Against the backdrop of Sea Alissa’s garden fountain, sixteen young ladies modelled on an outdoor, round catwalk fashionwear from local designers and retail stores across the island, including J. Michael’s, Hesha Boutique, Carey’s Karma Closet, The Show Room by Selita, Mutiny, Funky Monkey, Finishing Touch, Treasure Tee’s, Atlantic, and Sunflowers Resort Wear.

The creative director behind the 2023 Bows & Stilettos fashion show was Cayman’s very own supermodel, actress, writer and businesswoman, Selita Ebanks. Models donned bold, colorful, vibrant, youth-inspired, sophisticated Sport Swim Chic, It’s a Lifestyle, and Queendom segment pieces. Models also wowed the crowd with va-va-voom energy, edgy hairstyles and dazzling stilettos. Among the models was reigning MWCI queen, Leanni Tibbetts. All eyes were on Leanni as she strutted down the catwalk, turning heads with bold and stylish ensembles, including the show-stopping Queendom piece - Ivory Stella McCartney gown with crystal sleeve details (Carey’s Karma Closet); Kate Spade stripped wedge (Carey’s Karma Closet), and Jewelry (Finishing Touch).

The fashion show, which embodied women empowerment, was emceed by local attorney, Lloyd Barker. Over 100 people attended the event, with Honorable Ministers of Parliament, Mr. Kenneth Bryan and Chris Saunders as special guests. The event opened with a cash bar and canapés before attendees took their seats. The event included an auction, raffle, music and entertainment by Steel Panist, Kiara Lemay, and Centre Pointe Dancers.

Surrounded by the models of the night, Director and Founder of the MWCI Organization presented Selita with a token of appreciation and portrait by Franklin Manderson. 

“Selita handpicked every item and paired each item with shoes and accessories. Her expertise, creativity and support really made this event a huge success,” Director and Founder, Pamela Ebanks-Small commented. “We are also grateful for supporters such as Al and Melissa Thompson who allowed their beautiful home to be the backdrop for our first ever fashion show. We are excited for Leanni to compete on the Miss World stage in Dubai. We are grateful for all the support thus far, but we are hoping for additional donations to allow us to meet our intended goal.” Ms. Ebanks-Small said.

For more information about the Miss World Cayman Islands pageant, the Girl Power program, and to make a donation, please contact missworldcayman@gmail.com .