Angélique Angarni-Filopon, representing Martinique, has been crowned as Miss France 2025. The momentous event took place on December 14, 2024, at the Arena Futuroscope, located near Poitiers. This 95th edition of the revered beauty pageant did not just witness the crowning of the new queen, but it also marked history as Angélique became the first winner over the age of 30, breaking traditional norms associated with beauty contests.
The vibrant evening hosted by Jean-Pierre Foucault was filled with emotion and excitement. Angélique, aged 34, stood out among the 30 contestants competing for the crown. Overjoyed and tearful, she shared her sentiments with the audience: "C'est un honneur de me tenir devant vous. Quand j'ai gagné le concours Miss Martinique, j'ai dit aux Martiniquais qu'on allait le faire ensemble. Et on l'a fait ensemble! Merci!" The heartfelt statement expressed her dedication not just to her homeland but also to women everywhere, asserting her victory as one for all women who have been told it was 'too late' for their dreams.
Angélique's path to the crown wasn't uncharted. She previously participated in the Miss Martinique pageant back in 2011, finishing as the first runner-up. Making her return this year, she embraced the opportunity provided by the elimination of age restrictions for contestants, which had previously capped participants at 24.
The first runner-up title went to Sabah Aïb, representing Nord-Pas-de-Calais, who is just 18 years old. The second runner-up was Stella Vangioni of Corsica, followed by Moïra André from Guadeloupe and Lilou Emeline-Artuso from Côte d'Azur rounding out the final positions. This showcases the diverse talent pool present at this year's pageant, with contestants ranging from ages 18 to 34.
The change this year also highlights societal shifts, as various groups aim to redefine beauty standards. There remain voices of dissent, such as Aliénor Laurent from Osez le féminisme!, who argue the need to shift focus to women's accomplishments rather than appearances. "Ce serait plus efficace de mettre en avant les femmes dans les programmes scolaires et dans l’espace public," Laurent stated, emphasizing society's broader responsibility to encourage authentic representations of women.
Despite controversies surrounding beauty pageants, Jean-Pierre Foucault maintains the popularity of Miss France continues to thrive, asserting, "Les Français sont toujours là parce que Miss France est un spectacle familial, sain et moderne, quoi qu’en disent ses détracteurs." This indicates the cherished place the event holds within the cultural fabric of France, acting as both entertainment and representation.
Angélique’s win is seen as more than just historical; it also fuels conversations about inclusivity and empowerment within beauty contests. Her success symbolizes hope for future candidates, particularly those who have often faced ageism and other societal barriers. It paints a picture of evolution within the Miss France organization, reflecting broader sociocultural changes awaiting recognition.
With the Miss France 2025 crown, Angélique Angarni-Filopon not only holds the title but also carries the weight of representation for women of all ages on her shoulders. The possibilities this presents for her advocacy endeavors are likely to shape her reign positively, as she transitions from contestant to queen.
With this beautiful chapter already written, anticipation builds for the next year’s competition, as the legacy of such moments continues to inspire future generations. Angélique's story is just beginning, and her impact may resonate far beyond the glamour of the pageant stage.
