The 1953 Miss Universe pageant marked France's first victory in the competition and introduced a unique all-bronze crown used only once.
Key Facts
- Edition
- 2nd Miss Universe pageant
- Date
- 17 July 1953
- Winner
- Christiane Martel, France
- Number of contestants
- 26
- Crown designer
- Allan Adler (Metallic Bronze Crown)
- Host
- Bob Russell
By the Numbers
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
Miss Universe 1952, Armi Kuusela of Finland, relinquished her crown to marry, making her unable to crown her successor at the 1953 pageant. Actress Julie Adams took on the crowning duties instead. The competition drew 26 contestants, the smallest field in the pageant's history as of 2025.
The second Miss Universe pageant was held on 17 July 1953 at the Long Beach Municipal Auditorium in California. Christiane Martel of France was crowned Miss Universe 1953 by actress Julie Adams. The event was hosted by Bob Russell and featured the one-of-a-kind Metallic Bronze Crown, an all-bronze design devoid of rhinestones or gemstones, created by silversmith Allan Adler.
France claimed its first Miss Universe title with Martel's victory. The distinctive Metallic Bronze Crown, used solely for this edition, became a notable artifact of the pageant's early history. With only 26 contestants, this edition recorded the smallest participation in Miss Universe history as of 2025.