Recap: Finding Ashley Stewart 2019

Every year there are events that I look forward to attending, but none of them are ever as fun as the Finding Ashley Stewart Finale.

This past weekend marked my second year covering the crowd-pleasing show. Part pageant, part concert, the event is a culmination of a year-long search for an ambassador who embodies what the global fashion brand stands for: kindness, perseverance, resilience, confidence, and empowerment.

Over the past year, Ashley Stewart made stops in several major cities including Los Angeles, Miami and Chicago, on the hunt for Finding Ashley Stewart 2019. This year, eight beautiful finalists were flown to New York City to showcase their style, curves, smarts and unique personalities in front of a live audience at King’s Theatre in Brooklyn. No contest is complete without a master of ceremonies and a roster of judges and this year was no different.

Hosted by talk show host/comedian Loni Love, the event was chockfull of talented judges and special guests including Kid Capri, DJ Olivia Dope, producer and media mogul Yandy Smith, drag queen, performer, and Season 11 contestant of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Silky Ganache, American journalist and essayist Charisse Jones, as well as past Ashley Stewart winners Tiffany Flamer and Theresa Larsen.

After each of the hopefuls strutted their stuff across the stage and answered hard-hitting, topical questions, the audience was treated to an unbelievable concert.

R&B legend Faith Evans opened the show with hits like, “Soon As I Get Home,” and “I Remember (You Used to Love Me).” She ended with the dance party anthem, “Love Like This.” As a diehard “faithful” (the endearing term Evans uses to describe her loyal fans), I was in heaven as the talented singer took me back to the ‘90s with her powerful voice. Hip-hop pioneers Salt-n-Pepa shut the show down after performing classics like “Let’s Talk About Sex,” “Shoop,” and “Push It.”

Finally, after the soul-stirring musical acts, it was time to crown Ashley Stewart 2019. After much deliberation, the finalists which included a teacher, news assistant, makeup artist and other professionals, were narrowed down to one: Addlia Edwards.

The Atlanta native and hairstylist walked away with the title of Ashley Stewart 2019 and a $10,000 prize package including a year-long wardrobe, styling, makeover, photoshoots, and more.

In addition to show’s grand prize, the 2019 Finding Ashley Stewart finale event also awarded over $300,000 in scholarships and charitable donations, partnering with organizations such as Susan G. Komen, Black Retail Action Group, and others.

Since 1991, Ashley Stewart has been a stalwart on the plus-size fashion scene, as well as a positive pillar in the community. With more than 89 stores across the country, and a booming online presence, Ashley Stewart has undeniable staying power and we’re here for it!

What article of clothing makes you feel confident and empowered?