AROUND TOWN: Gabie Payne

We all know those girls: “it” girls. They are multi-faceted human beings with great taste in clothing, music and perfume. They’re like magnets, attracting positive attention from every angle. And on top of that, they are nice to look at from just about every angle. With a smile brighter than the sun and a resume more built than Arnold Schwarzenegger, there is no doubt Gabrielle Payne is a Kent State “It” girl.

Name: Gabie Payne

Role: TV2 Evening News Anchor and Miss West Virginia candidate

CollegeFashionista: How would you describe your personal style?

Gabie Payne: About half of my closet is black and white. I really like timeless, classic pieces. I really love Audrey Hepburn; she is really my biggest style role model. It’s easy to dress up black and white. Plus, most of the things I do require a lot of business wear, so I own a lot of blazers and dress skirts.

CF: How do you incorporate your style on camera?

GP: It really depends on what story I’m covering. On evening news, some of the stories are more serious and revolve around hard news, so I have to dress appropriately. I try to wear simple colors, nothing too flashy. I love to play up my jewelry and makeup instead.

CF: What are you looking to achieve through your Miss West Virginia candidacy?

GP: Well, I fell in love with the Miss America organization. It really has changed my life. My goal is to one day be Miss America. My goal is to really break down the pageant stereotype. I try to be myself as much as possible to show the values that many of these girls hold. I hold myself accountable and try to be a well-rounded individual. Furthermore, here I am able to advocate for my platform which is nutrition.

CF: What advice do you have for girls looking to break into the pageant world?

GP: Do it! Honestly, the confidence you gain from doing it is so amazing. It is competitive, but ultimately we’re all working together for the same cause, the Children’s Miracle Network, Miss America’s official platform. To girls looking to break in, work on your communication skills. Those are the most important. It’s all about becoming the best you that you can be.

Learn More: Check out Gabie’s Instagram for a glimpse into her philanthropic deeds and style cues. Gabie will compete for Miss West Virginia on July 1st.

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