Miss Venezuela Amanda Dudamel was named the first runner-up tonight in New Orleans, Louisiana, at the Miss Universe 2023 pageant. Miss USA R’Bonney Gabriel won the crown and Andreína Martínez, Miss Dominican Republic, rounded out the final three.
Dudamel wore an over-the-shoulder dress that was embellished with sequins in light blue, dark blue and gold. It was complete with a mesh cape and heels.
(L-R): Miss Venezuela Amanda Dudamel Miss USA R’bonney Gabriel and Miss Dominican Republic Andreína Martínez speak during The 71st Miss Universe Competition at New Orleans Morial Convention Center on January 14, 2023 in New Orleans, Louisiana. CREDIT: Getty Images
The outcome of the beauty competition came after a final question and answer segment. She was asked, “If you win Miss Universe, how would you work to demonstrate this as an empowering and progressive organization?”
The fashion designer responded: “If I get to win Miss Universe, I will follow the legacy that many women across the universe has showed to be part of this organization, because Miss Universe has demonstrated that they choose women who inspire with their messages, and transform with their actions. And that’s precisely what I would like to do.” She continued, “I’m a fashion designer by profession, but I’m a designer of dreams as a woman, thank you so much.”
Miss Venezuela Amanda Dudamel onstage during The 71st Miss Universe Competition at New Orleans Morial Convention Center on January 14, 2023 in New Orleans, Louisiana. CREDIT: Getty Images
The Miss Universe organization is undergoing a progressive change under its new owner, transgender businesswoman Anne Jakkaphong Jakrajutatip, who bought the pageant last year for $20,000,000 along with Miss USA and Miss Teen USA. Now, married women and mothers can compete.
Miss USA R’Bonney Gabriel (now Miss Universe) wore a sparkling blue-black ombre dress with cutouts around the bodice and sleeves. A fringe skirt and bejeweled shoulders added a sleek textual finish. Platform heels completed the look.
Andreína Martínez, Miss Dominican Republic, was named second runner-up. She had on a blush dress with silver embellishments and a sweetheart neckline. She wore sandals featuring embellished straps.
RELATED: Miss Thailand Anna Sueangam-Iam Shimmers in Dress Made of Soda Pull-Can Tabs & Heels for Miss Universe 2023 Evening Gown Preliminary
Jeannie Mai Jenkins and former Miss Universe Olivia Culpo were the night’s hosts.
Miss Venezuela, Amanda Dudamel walks onstage during the swimsuit competition at the 71st Miss Universe preliminary competition at New Orleans Morial Convention Center on January 11, 2023 in New Orleans, Louisiana. CREDIT: Getty Images
Miss Venezuela, Amanda Dudamel walks onstage during the 71st Miss Universe Competition National Costume show at New Orleans Morial Convention Center on January 11, 2023 in New Orleans, Louisiana. CREDIT: Getty Images
PHOTOS: All the Miss Universe National Costumes 2023
