First Miss Venezuela crowned after ditching contestants' measurements

A 19-year-old student has been crowned Miss Venezuela, becoming the first winner of the annual pageant since it opted not to publish contestants' waist, hip and bust measurements.

Thalia Olvino prevailed in Caracas on Thursday after organisers -- facing criticism for the contest's primary focus on physical appearance -- said they wanted to push back against stereotypes about what an ideal woman looks like.

"I did this with all my heart and total dedication," Olvino said after the pageant -- during which contestants paraded on stage in swimsuits nevertheless.

In the past, presenters would tell the audience the exact size of each contestant, many of whom underwent cosmetic surgery and followed strict diets to achieve the supposedly ideal physique: a 90-centimeter (36-inch) bust, 60-centimeter waist and 90-centimeter hips.

But this year organisers tried to shift the focus, quizzing the contestants about their character.

"Determination", "excellence" and "initiative," marketing student Olvino replied when asked to highlight her main qualities.

In another round, fellow candidate Melissa Jimenez said that "Miss Venezuela has evolved and serves to empower women."