Plus-Size Women Express Their Natural Beauty Smiles and Thanks Co., Ltd. Press Release: October 23, 2025 To Members of the Media Plus-size women express their natural beauty “Today’s Woman Japan Plus Size Beauty Contest 2025” held with great success On Sunday, October 19, 2025, the plus-size beauty contest “Today’s Woman Japan 2025,” sponsored by Smiles and Thanks Inc. (CEO: Steven Haines, Minato-ku, Tokyo), was held. The venue was filled to capacity with approximately 300 spectators, and the 21 finalists confidently displayed their “individuality” and “natural beauty” on stage.
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https://prcdn.freetls.fastly.net/release_image/86373/6/86373-6-562c54538c25834e4b4925b115498dcd-3538×2359.jpg Opening Show “Family Photo” ■ Messages of “Loving Yourself” from the 21 Finalists This contest is held under the philosophy that “It’s the size of your heart that counts, not your waist size.” The 21 finalists, selected from a large number of applicants, each took on the responsibility of their own life and stepped onto the shining stage. Some contestants had previously experienced unkind words for being “plus-size” or had lost confidence due to comparisons with others. However, this contest placed emphasis on “self-love” and “acceptance of others” rather than judging. Each participant took the stage with these thoughts in mind, facing themselves as they went. Many participants said things like, “This stage was the first time I felt like myself,” and “I learned to be proud of myself instead of comparing myself to others.” This made it clear that the event went beyond being a simple contest and functioned as a community that fostered self-acceptance and affirmation. The finalists walked the runway with confidence, wearing dresses that expressed their individuality. It was impressive to see them encouraging each other backstage and conveying their feelings through words, smiles, and gestures on stage. The audience listened intently to each speech, which revealed the path each speaker has walked and their thoughts, and some were seen in tears. What shone under the lights illuminating the stage was not physique or appearance, but the courage to love oneself itself. The audience erupted in warm applause and cheers, and by the end, the entire venue was united in a deeply moving moment. “Today’s Woman” was an opportunity not only for the contestants, but also for each and every audience member to rediscover the beauty within themselves.
https://prcdn.freetls.fastly.net/release_image/86373/6/86373-6-a61a801312503cfcf0a116364c6fb905-3900×2601.jpg Organizer Stephen Haines and winners Oto (left), Most Sophisticated 2025, and Most Elegant 2025 Yasuko (right)
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https://prcdn.freetls.fastly.net/release_image/86373/6/86373-6-686bf6939c0ddabfba66b08f11521fd1-3900×2786.jpg ■ Message from the Organizer To Everyone As founder and CEO of Today’s Woman, and as we enter our fifth year, I reflect on our journey and realize just how meaningful this contest has become. “Today’s Woman” is a platform where women can express their hopes, dreams, and understanding of life. It’s also a place where they can share the opportunity to take pride in and celebrate their accomplishments, their passions, and their respectful, positive outlook on life. We always open our doors with peace and kindness, hoping that everyone can walk through them with a smile and an excited heart. We look forward to continuing this journey with your continued support, expectations, and, most importantly, friendship. Stephen Haines (Supported by Susumu Ishigami and the entire team, with “Smiles and Thanks”) ■ Event Overview Name: Today’s Woman Japan Plus Size Beauty Contest 2025 Organizer: Smiles and Thanks Co., Ltd. Date: Sunday, October 19, 2025 Venue: Asakusabashi Hulic Hall (accommodates approximately 300 people) Contents: Speech, walking, and judging presentation Purpose: “DISCO” D – Diversity, I – Independence, S – Smiles, C – Confidence, O – Opportunities The contest aims to spread new values of beauty to society through women. ■ Contest Features ・ Respect for diversity: Women aged 18 and over are welcome to participate, regardless of age, nationality, or marital status. ・ Value the size of your heart: We evaluate not only appearance but also inner beauty, passion, and confidence. ・ Two classes: Sophisticated Class (18-39 years old) / Elegant Class (40 years old and above, no age limit) ・ Contest philosophy: “DISCO” D – Diversity I –
Independence S – Smiles C- Confidence O – Opportunities
(Opportunities: With limitless individuality to express equality, beauty, and security that comes from within)
https://prcdn.freetls.fastly.net/release_image/86373/6/86373-6-e9dd6641ddfa91332cbff2d4007e1fec-2371×1754.png ■ Today’s What is a Woman? “Today’s Woman” is someone who is kind to herself and others, who brings possibilities to the world. And who always looks forward and celebrates herself. This beauty contest isn’t about comparing yourself to others, nor is it about being bound by other contests or existing styles. There’s no need to pretend or deceive others out of concern for their own perception; it’s a place where you can freely express your true self. This is a safe and secure space where you can gather only with people who respect and understand you. Why not take that first step to shining your true self? Image
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