Miss America's Outstanding Teen 2018 is Jessica Baeder!

 

2018 Judges

Dr. Debbye Turner Bell- Miss America 1990

Benjamin Brecher

Professor Hilary Levey Friedman

Sinead Norenius

Julie Stadler

Dr. Jamie Wells

Top 10 Evening Gowns from Miss America's Outstanding Teen 2017

10. Miss Maryland's Outstanding Teen, Chloe Wildman

This is a great take on the "Greek Goddess" evening gown trend for a Teen contestant. The gown is simple, but the impeccable fit and styling land it on this list.

The top of the gown fits her perfectly. The modest v-neck and thick straps highlight her amazing arms and elongate her neck. The light shade of pink is youthful and girly, a perfect match to bubbly personality Chloe showed throughout the competition week. (Read: What Your Evening Gown Color Says About You)

Pixie cuts, when done correctly, bring focus to the face and highlight bone structure. Chloe does just that with her short brown locks. Her long pink earrings add just enough sparkle for the stage and are a great choice with her short hair.

Miss Maryland Outstanding Teen Chloe Wildman during the preliminary evening gown competition at Miss America's Outstanding Teen 2018. Photo: P.G. Photography

9. Miss Georgia's Outstanding Teen, Annie Swan

This year's first runner-up won a preliminary evening gown and on-stage question award on the first night of competition and it is easy to see why! (Read: Preliminary Winners at Miss America's Outstanding Teen 2018 Announced)

Annie chose a gown perfect for a national teen pageant that can be used in any system. The empire cut of the gown is flattering on all body types. Photos do not do this rhinestone-encrusted bodice justice. It perfectly captured the stage lights and kept the focus on Annie's face.

Instead of a traditional bun, Annie went with a high ponytail to complete her look. Ponytails are great for Teen contestants because they keep the look youthful and fun while still allowing contestants to keep their hair out of their faces. Her long chandelier earrings match the pattern of the top perfectly and bring the look together.

Miss Georgia's Outstanding Teen 2018 Annie Swan during the 2017 Preliminary Evening Gown Competition at Miss America's Outstanding Teen 2018. Photo: P.G. Photography

8. Miss Oregon's Outstanding Teen, Emma Ellis

Emma embraces her inner Elle Woods with this two-toned gown. Pink is a risk on an older contestant since it is usually seen on younger girls. However, Emma's two-toned look combined with the trumpet silhouette makes this one of the best gowns of the night. (Read: How to Choose the Right Pink Pageant Dress)

Her shade of pink is also important. The bold jewel tone is super flattering on her skin. The black top balances out the boldness of the skirt. The belt is perfect because it defines her waist and provides a seamless transition from the top to the bottom of the gown.

Combined with perfect beachy waves and minimal accessories, this look is worthy of the red carpet!

Miss Oregon's Outstanding Teen 2018 Emma Ellis during the Preliminary Evening Gown Competition at Miss America's Outstanding Teen 2018. Photo:. P.G. Photography

7. Miss Alabama's Outstanding Teen, Jessica Baeder

There is a reason Jessica was crowned the new Miss America's Outstanding Teen! She glided across the stage in this fairy tale princess ballgown.

The embroidery takes what would be a plain white ball gown to the next level. It provides a seamless blend for the eye to follow as the dress transitions from the satin top to the tulle bottom. Her hairstyle is ideal for a strapless gown as it keeps Jessica's hair out of her face but still provides coverage to prevent her shoulders from appearing overexposed. (Read: 12 Embroidered Pageant Dresses You Have Got to See)

Miss Alabama's Outstanding Teen 2018 Jessica Baeder during the 2017 Preliminary Evening Gown Competition at Miss America's Outstanding Teen 2018. Photo: P.G. Photography

6. Miss Kansas' Outstanding Teen, Taylor Clark

This is by far one of the most unique gowns from the pageant. The fabric is unlike any other, making Taylor stand out in a sea of satin and tulle. The shine captures the stage lights beautifully to show off the lilac color. The layers on the bottom add movement and dimension to prevent the ball gown from looking too young. (Read: 8 Problems Every Girl With Short Hair Has And How To Fix Them)

Miss Kansas' Outstanding Teen 2018 Taylor Clark during the Preliminary Evening Gown Competition at Miss America's Outstanding Teen 2018. Photo: P.G. Photography

5. Miss Ohio's Outstanding Teen, Gracie Fusco

This a-line cut is super flattering as it shows off Gracie's super tiny waist. The bejeweled v-neckline draws the eye up and keeps the attention on her face. Her train starts at the perfect spot on her hip and highlights her hourglass shape.

Gracie's hair and makeup are some of the best seen on the stage. Her up-do oozes elegance and class. Her bold red lip pops against her electric blue gown and shows off her super white smile. Her long chandelier earrings pair perfectly with the hairstyle and neckline. (Read: 4 Easy Updos Any Pageant Girl Can Achieve)

Miss Ohio's Outstanding Teen 2018 Gracie Fusco during the 2017 Preliminary Evening Gown Competition at Miss America's Outstanding Teen 2018. Photo: P.G. Photography

4. Miss New York's Outstanding Teen, Asia Hickman

Asia was arguably one of the best dressed contestants this year. From her amazing talent outfit to this regal gown, she owned it.

The bedazzled floral bodice sparkles under the stage lights. The yellow skirt is a beautiful but unique combination that made this gown stand out. Her cold-shoulder neckline is delicate while still highlighting her amazing arms.The whole look screams of a modern day Disney princess. (Read: 5 Floral Looks for Your Next Pageant)

Miss New York's Outstanding Teen 2018 Asia Hickman during the 2017 Preliminary Evening Gown Competition at Miss America's Outstanding Teen 2018. Photo: P.G. Photography

3.  Miss Colorado's Outstanding Teen, Jordyn Penny

Sometimes the simplest looks are the best. Jordyn is the perfect example. She went with a simple ball gown silhouette but turned up the heat with the fire engine red color.

Red is a power color. It screams "Look at me!" to the judges. Since the color is so bold, Jordyn kept the rest of the look minimal with perfect curls and hardly any accessories. (Read: How to Pick the Right Red Evening Gown)

Miss Colorado's Outstanding Teen 2018 Jordyn Penny during the 2017 Preliminary Evening Gown Competition at Miss America's Outstanding Teen 2018. Photo: P.G. Photography

2. Miss Texas' Outstanding Teen, Stephanie Wendt

This is one of the best Teen gowns in recent years. She is wearing the gown; the gown is not wearing her. The yellow color was a bold choice, but it paid off. It looks beautiful against her golden skin and dark hair.

The high keyhole neckline is super flattering on almost anyone. It highlights the shoulders and bust while elongating the neck. Simple drop earring complement the top. (Read: How to Choose the Right Yellow Evening Gown)

Miss Texas' Outstanding Teen 2018 Stephanie Wendt during the Preliminary Evening Gown Competition at Miss America's Outstanding Teen 2018. Photo: P.G. Photography

1. Miss Pennsylvania's Outstanding Teen, Madison Dompkosky

This look is stunning. Madison's gown is gorgeous. From the color to the fit to the accessories, she knocked it out of the park.

The shade of blue is perfect against Madison's golden skin. The entire gown is covered in intricate beading and rhinestones, making it shine under the lights. The silver belt defines her waist and is perfectly placed to highlights the start of the beautiful satin train. (Read: How to Choose the Right Blue Evening Gown)

This look is also proof of the importance of investing in a tailor. The fit is impeccable. It highlights every curve of her body and falls perfectly.

Her ponytail was also a smart choice. Since the gown is so busy, pulling her hair back prevents the two from competing. However, the ponytail is very youthful, which is a perfect balance to the mature fit of the gown.

 

Top 10 Headshots of Miss America's Outstanding Teen 2018

10. Miss Alaska's Outstanding Teen, Emma Broyles

This is a clean, crisp headshot. Emma chose a bright pink top to show off her super girly side. Her curls are big, beautiful and effortless. Her makeup is also impeccable and highlights her to-die-for cheekbones. Her eyebrows are immaculate.

Her pose is also simple, but by slightly turning her body, her headshot stands out in a sea of straight-on photos. (Read: How to Pose for a Pageant Headshot)

Miss Alaska's Outstanding Teen 2017 Emma Broyles. Photo: Miss America's Outstanding Teen Organization

9. Miss Colorado's Outstanding Teen, Jordyn Penney

Jordyn embraced an All-American girl next door look for her headshot. Her perfect blonde curls are super bouncy and young. Her natural eye makeup highlights her blue eyes but lets her perfect smile remain the star of the photo. The hint of blue peeking out from her top adds just enough color to bring the photo together. (Read: How to Make Your Pageant Curls Last all Day)

Miss Colorado's Outstanding Teen 2017 Jordyn Penney. Photo: Miss America's Outstanding Teen Organization

8. Miss Oklahoma's Outstanding Teen, Evelyn Smith

This photo is so warm and welcoming. Evelyn has a smile that lights up a room and she let it shine in her headshot!

She kept the look simple with natural makeup and hoop earrings. This allows her smile to be the star of the photo. Her pale pink top pops against her flawless dark skin to add just enough color to the photo. (Read: 4 Ways to get a Winning Pageant Smile Like Miss America Titleholders)

Miss Oklahoma's Outstanding Teen 2017 Evelyn Smith. Photo: Miss America's Outstanding Teen Organization

7. Miss South Carolina's Outstanding Teen, Ally McCaslin

The joy that radiates from Ally in this picture is captivating. There is not a price you can put on her smile.

On top of her gorgeous smile and eyes, Ally has some great styling. The patterned top is fun and flirty, which is perfect for a Teen contestant. (Read: What to Wear for Pageant Headshots)

I cannot get over how perfect her earrings are for this photo. An outfit is important in choosing the right headshot. However, it is also important to know the outfit is not the star of the photo, you are. The pure joy on Ally's face should and is the star of the photo, making it one of the best headshots this year.

Accessories are important in completing a look. However, you do not want them to overpower the photo. In order to allow her expression to shine but still complete the look, Ally chose a simple drop earring. The thin, long chain elongates her neck while the bulb at the end adds just enough sparkle.

Miss South Carolina's Outstanding Teen 2017 Ally McCaslin. Photo: Miss America's Outstanding Teen Organization

6. Miss Georgia's Outstanding Teen, Annie Swan

Annie embodies southern charm in this photo. The pure white top combined with her big blonde waves screams Georgia peach. (Read: How to Choose the Right Accessories)

She took a risk with the pink earrings but it paid off. Considering there is so much white in the photo with the top and background, the earrings provide a desperately needed pop of color to prevent Annie from being washed out.

Miss Georgia's Outstanding Teen 2017 Annie Swan. Photo: Matt Boyd Photography

5. Miss Texas' Outstanding Teen, Stephanie Wendt

Stephanie used the same headshot from when she won her state title and it is easy to see why! This is a fantastic example of a headshot for a Teen about to age into Miss. Stephanie is a high school senior. Had she not won her state title this year, she would be preparing to compete in the Miss category. She had to find a balance between a Teen headshot and a Miss headshot.

The cutouts on the top are appropriate given she is older. She chose a calmer blue color to keep the top more appropriate for a Teen pageant. Her fun earrings draw attention to her face. Her pose is also youthful and keeps the cutout from revealing too much. (Read: 6 Tips on How to Successfully Transition from Teen to Miss)

Miss Texas Outstanding Teen 2017 Stephanie Wendt. Photo: Miss America's Outstanding Teen Organization

4. Miss Arkansas Outstanding Teen, Aubrey Elizabeth Reed

This is a perfect Teen headshot. Her off-the-shoulder top is trendy and youthful. The detailing around the neckline adds dimension that prevents the bright yellow from blending into her pale skin. A simple earring adds just enough sparkle without competing with the loud top.

The side part highlights her heart-shaped face and amazing bone structure. Her natural makeup is perfect for a Teen and lets her bright blue eyes stand out. (2017 Pageant Interview Fashion Trends)

Miss Arkansas' Outstanding Teen 2017 Aubrey Elizabeth Reed. Photo: Miss America's Outstanding Teen Organization

3. Miss North Carolina's Outstanding Teen, Marissa Garrison

Marissa's eyes are absolutely stunning and she let this striking feature be the star of her headshot. By leaning forward, her face becomes the focus of the photo while her torso fades into the background. Her simple hair and perfect eye makeup complement her natural beauty. A simple gold chandelier earring brings the look together. (Read: Secret to Taking a Winning Pageant Headshot)

Miss North Carolina's Outstanding Teen 2017 Marissa Garrison. Photo: Miss America's Outstanding Teen Organization

2. Miss Nebraska's Outstanding Teen, Carsyn Long

Carsyn is headshot hair goals. Her chocolate hair is perfectly styled and looks super healthy. The side part with cascading curls over one shoulder is a perfect style to pair with an off-the-shoulder top. Her makeup is also impeccable and highlights her beautiful green eyes.

Red is normally a power color seen on Miss contestants. However, Carsyn keeps it Teen-appropriate with a darker shade. Statement earrings peeking out from her perfect hair polish off the elegant look. (Read: 6 Steps To Take Care Of Pageant Hair)

Miss Nebraska's Outstanding Teen 2017 Carsyn Long. Photo: Miss America's Outstanding Teen Organization

1. Miss Alabama's Outstanding Teen, Jessica Baeder

When you are the first state in alphabetical order, you have to make sure you stand out. Jessica does just that landing her in the number one spot. She looks absolutely breathtaking in this photo.

Less is more in Jessica's case. Her pin straight hair looks effortless. Combined with her simple makeup, the look lets her icy blue eyes pop in the photo. She chose a simple top in a bold pink to keep the look girly and Teen-appropriate.

Jessica ties the look together with huge teal earrings. While dramatic, considering the simplicity of the overall look, the earrings add much needed interest to keep the attention of her gorgeous face. Overall, this photo is a huge hit! (Read: 3 Best Makeup Styles for People with Blue Eyes)

Congratulations on your new title as Miss America's Outstanding Teen 2018, Jessica! (Read: Preliminary Winners at Miss America's Outstanding Teen 2018 Announced)

Miss Alabama's Outstanding Teen 2017 Jessica Baeder. Photo: Miss America's Outstanding Teen Organization

 

Preliminary night one

The first night of preliminary competitions was on July 25, 2017.

Annie Swan, Miss Georgia, and Evelyn Smith, Miss Oklahoma, both tied for the Evening Gown/Onstage Question award.

Asia Hickman, Miss New York, won the preliminary Talent award.

Miss America's Outstanding Teen 2017 with the night one preliminary winners.

Preliminary night two

The second night of preliminary competitions brought home more preliminary wins for some deserving young ladies.

The Evening Gown/Onstage Question award went to Stephanie Wendt, Miss Texas.

The Talent award was presented to Jessica Baeder, Miss Alabama.

Miss America's Outstanding Teen 2017 with the night two preliminary winners.

Preliminary night three

The third and final night of preliminary competitions was an exciting night for all of the girls!

Emma Ellis, Miss Oregon, was awarded the Evening Gown/Onstage Question award.

Katie Preston, Miss Michigan, won the preliminary Talent award. (Read: 3 Tips to Help Choose Your Talent)

The two scholastic achievement awards went to Chloe Wildman, Miss Maryland, and Stephanie Wendt, Miss Texas.

This night concluded the preliminary competitions for Miss America's Outstanding Teen 2018.

Miss America's Outstanding Teen 2017 with the night three preliminary winners.

Miss Pennsylvania's Outstanding Teen 2018 Madison Dompkosky during the Preliminary Evening Gown Competition at Miss America's Outstanding Teen 2018. Photo: P.G. Photography

Miss America's Outstanding Teen 2018 Scholarships

Here are the placements and how much scholarship money each contestant won!

Miss Alabama’s Outstanding Teen, Jessica Baeder
$30,000 MAOTeen 2018
$500 Preliminary Talent
$1,000 Teens in Action
$500 Dance Talent

Miss Georgia’s Outstanding Teen, Annie Swan
$10,000 First Runner-Up
$500 Dance Talent
$500 Preliminary Evening Wear/On Stage Question

Miss Maryland’s Outstanding Teen, Chloe Wildman
$7,500 Second Runner-Up
$1,000 Outstanding Achievement in Academic Life

Miss Texas’ Outstanding Teen, Stephanie Wendt
$5,000 Third Runner-Up
$500 Preliminary Evening Wear/On Stage Question
$1,000 Scholastic Excellence

Miss Michigan’s Outstanding Teen, Katie Preston
$2,000 Fourth Runner-Up
$500 Vocal Talent
$500 Preliminary Talent
SEMI-FINALISTS

Miss Arkansas’ Outstanding Teen, Aubrey Elizabeth Reed
$1,500 Semi-Finalist

Miss Florida’s Outstanding Teen, Reece Weaver
$1,500 Semi-Finalist
$500 Dance Talent

Miss Indiana’s Outstanding Teen, Ellie Barmes
$1,500 Semi-Finalist

Miss Iowa’s Outstanding Teen, Lydia Fisher
$1,500 Semi-Finalist

Miss Minnesota’s Outstanding Teen, Emily Shumacher
$1,500 Semi-Finalist
$1,000 America’s Choice

Miss Oklahoma’s Outstanding Teen, Evelyn Smith
$1,500 Semi-Finalist
$500 Preliminary Evening Wear/On Stage Question

Miss West Virginia’s Outstanding Teen, Sabrina Harrison
$1,500 Semi-Finalist
$500 Dance Talent
$500 Random Acts of Kindness
NON-FINALISTS

Miss Alaska’s Outstanding Teen, Emma Broyles
$1,000 Non-Finalist

Miss Arizona’s Outstanding Teen, Dimon Sanders
$1,000 Non-Finalist

Miss California’s Outstanding Teen, Violet Joy Hansen
$1,000 Non-Finalist

Miss Colorado’s Outstanding Teen, Jordyn Penney
$1,000 Non-Finalist

Miss Connecticut’s Outstanding Teen, Brooke Eve Cyr
$1,000 Non-Finalist

Miss Delaware’s Outstanding Teen, Nicole Hannah
$1,000 Non-Finalist

Miss District of Columbia’s Outstanding Teen, Brooke Miller
$1,000 Non-Finalist

Miss Hawaii’s Outstanding Teen, Maia Mayeshiro
$1,000 Non-Finalist
$500 Instrumental Talent
$500 Non-Finalist Talent

Miss Idaho’s Outstanding Teen, Ava Powell
$1,000 Non-Finalist
$500 Non-Finalist Interview

Miss Illinois’ Outstanding Teen, Maddie Mazzella
$1,000 Non-Finalist

Miss Kansas’ Outstanding Teen, Taylor Clark
$1,000 Non-Finalist
$500 Instrumental Talent
$500 Non-Finalist Talent

Miss Kentucky’s Outstanding Teen, Abigail Quammen
$1,000 Non-Finalist

Miss Louisiana’s Outstanding Teen, Alana Lewis
$1,000 Non-Finalist

Miss Maine’s Outstanding Teen, Briley Bell
$1,000 Non-Finalist

Miss Massachusetts’ Outstanding Teen, Carly Fisher
$1,000 Non-Finalist
$3,000 Miracle Maker

Miss Mississippi’s Outstanding Teen, Holly Brand
$1,000 Non-Finalist

Miss Missouri’s Outstanding Teen, Heleena Haberer
$1,000 Non-Finalist

Miss Montana’s Outstanding Teen, Alexa Baisch
$1,000 Non-Finalist

Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen, Carsyn Long
$1,000 Non-Finalist

Miss Nevada’s Outstanding Teen, Carli Gumm
$1,000 Non-Finalist

Miss New Hampshire’s Outstanding Teen, Kenzie Goode
$1,000 Non-Finalist

Miss New Jersey’s Outstanding Teen, Augostina Mallous
$1,000 Non-Finalist

Miss New Mexico’s Outstanding Teen, Sienna Mascarenas
$1,000 Non-Finalist

Miss New York’s Outstanding Teen, Asia Hickman
$1,000 Non-Finalist
$500 Instrumental Talent
$500 Preliminary Talent

Miss North Carolina’s Outstanding Teen, Marissa Garrison
$1,000 Non-Finalist

Miss North Dakota’s Outstanding Teen, Sydney Helgeson
$1,000 Non-Finalist

Miss Ohio’s Outstanding Teen, Gracie Fusco
$1,000 Non-Finalist

Miss Oregon’s Outstanding Teen, Evelyn Smith
$1,000 Non-Finalist
$500 Non-Finalist Evening Wear/On Stage Question
$500 Preliminary Evening Wear/On Stage Question

Miss Pennsylvania’s Outstanding Teen, Madison Dompkosky
$1,000 Non-Finalist
$1,000 Ad Sales Award

Miss Rhode Island’s Outstanding Teen, Caroline Hollingsworth
$1,000 Non-Finalist

Miss South Carolina’s Outstanding Teen, Ally McCaslin
$1,000 Non-Finalist

Miss South Dakota’s Outstanding Teen, Elizabeth Nesland
$1,000 Non-Finalist

Miss Tennessee’s Outstanding Teen, Autumn Arsenault
$1,000 Non-Finalist

Miss Utah’s Outstanding Teen, Addelyn Brotherson
$1,000 Non-Finalist

Miss Vermont’s Outstanding Teen, Jenna Lawrence
$1,000 Non-Finalist

Miss Virginia’s Outstanding Teen, Isabella Jessee
$1,000 Non-Finalist

Miss Washington’s Outstanding Teen, Tia Moua
$1,000 Non-Finalist
$1,000 Spirit of America

Miss Wisconsin’s Outstanding Teen, Grace Stanke
$1,000 Non-Finalist

Miss Wyoming’s Outstanding Teen, Amelia Beck Winter
$1,000 Non-Finalist