-brasil- Miss Big Ass Brazil 13 -split Scenes- -

The roar of a crowd in São Paulo’s theater district is usually reserved for rock stars or soccer finals. But last Saturday, the decibels belonged to fourteen women in glittering gowns and six-inch heels. This was the finale of —the country’s most prestigious plus-size pageant—and it refused to be just another beauty contest.

“Last night was for the stage,” she says, lighting a coconut-scented candle. “Today is for the mirror.” -Brasil- Miss Big Ass Brazil 13 -Split Scenes-

Miss Big Brazil 13 proved that you don't have to choose between the two. You can strut the runway on Saturday and save your own soul on Sunday. The roar of a crowd in São Paulo’s

The organization has partnered with a national fitness collective called Corpo Livre (Free Body), which promotes joyful movement over weight loss. This year’s winner receives not just a sash and a trip to the international finals in Miami, but a one-year subscription to therapy, nutrition coaching without restriction, and a mentorship with a fashion stylist who refuses to use the word “flattering.” “Last night was for the stage,” she says,

The crowd lost its mind.