10 Most Beautiful Women in Dallas

How do you find the 10 most beautiful women in a city full of beautiful women? Well, for one, you ask for help. So we solicited nominations through our web site and received hundreds of questionnaires. We weren’t just looking for pretty faces, although that was a given. We wanted women who were—forgive the cliché—beautiful on the inside.

+++ How do you find the 10 most beautiful women in a city full of beautiful women? Well, for one, you ask for help. (If it were up to us, we might have just gone downstairs and selected 10 of our sales reps.) So we solicited nominations through our web site and received hundreds of questionnaires—some filled out by adoring husbands and boyfriends, some from moms, others from students who wanted to nominate their favorite teachers. We weren’t just looking for pretty faces, although that was a given. We wanted women who were—forgive the cliché—beautiful on the inside. We sought those who were smart, self-sufficient, and charitable. We wanted girls who loved Dallas and who gave back to their communities. We looked for diversity in backgrounds, ethnicities, and ages.

In the first round we narrowed down the pool to 25 semi-finalists. Each of them came to our office to meet the D Beauty editors and answer a few questions. It was hardly grueling; it felt more like a bunch of girlfriends gabbing than a formal interview. Our semi-finalists were charming, chatty, witty, and spirited. After two days of interviews, we were nearly stumped. We had met some seriously amazing people. It was tough, but we pared down the list to 20 finalists and posted their pictures and bios online. Then, we turned it over to you, our readers, to choose the 10 Most Beautiful Women in Dallas.

The voting period lasted for three weeks. Each week, we narrowed down the list of contestants based on the number of votes each woman received. By the end, more than 26,000 votes had been cast (and congratulations to Mandy Hamilton, who received 6,500 of them). Those left standing exemplify inner beauty with their compassion, charisma, intelligence, and respect for others. They are admirable for their gumption and entrepreneurial spirit. And their outer beauty? Well, see for yourself.

Take a behind-the-scenes peek of the photo shoot!


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Alissa is wearing a high-waist Rag & Bone pencil skirt ($380/LFT) and classic white blouse ($59/Club Monaco).

A corporate and residential interior design consultant, Alissa also writes a restaurant review column called Tasteful Interruption for Southern Vanity Magazine. As a member of the Junior League of Dallas, she enjoys volunteering at Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children, Jonathan’s Place, and Bryan’s House.

On being one of D Beauty’s 10 Most Beautiful Women: I am honored to be part of a group of women who have already done so much with their lives and who are so focused on being good people.

Favorite thing about Dallas: The many restaurants and the people. Dallasites are classy, sophisticated, and friendly. The city has its own unique style that sets it apart from other cities. Plus, I like big hair and sparkly jewelry. What can I say? I’m a true Texas girl.

What I’d like to change about Dallas: I wish there were more places like West Village where you can spend an afternoon just hanging out.

In 10 years I hope to: Be married with children, and have designed my own line of home accessories.

One goal I have yet to accomplish: To go on a mission trip. Making people’s lives brighter and helping to provide them with items that they need is one of the things I enjoy most. I have had the chance to do this on numerous occasions locally, and I would love to do it on a larger scale.

Philosophy on life: Keep a positive attitude regardless of how good or bad your day is. Attitude makes you who you are.

My hero: My mom. She is positive, happy, energetic, and has a kind heart. If I am half the woman she is, I’ll be proud of myself.

I’d like to be remembered as: Someone who made helping others an important part of her life. I’d like to be remembered for my heart and for being an inspiration to others.

Must-have beauty item: Mascara. I love L’Oreal’s Voluminous Full Definition Mascara in Blackest Black because it lengthens and separates my lashes. I have used it for years.

Favorite article of clothing: A great pair of jeans with some fabulous jewelry. I love True Religion jeans because they fit really well and have so many styles to choose from. I like the details they apply to their jeans. Being a designer, I tend to notice things like that.


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Jamie is wearing a ruffle-sleeved Loeffler Randall dress ($350/LFT) and Beyond Baroque earrings ($129).

At just 25 years old, Jamie has already co-founded her own line of beauty products, JamieO Skincare, and she is working on a new USDA-certified organic line. She loves shopping, dining out, gathering with friends and family, and volunteering for organizations such as the Elisa Project and Starlight Starbright.

Favorite thing about Dallas: The people. They’re bright, beautiful, down to earth, and willing to help others.

What I’d like to change about Dallas: I wish it had Austin’s topography—lots of trees and rolling hills.

In 10 years I hope to: Have had another child, made my skincare company a major international player, written a book that will empower women, and run a half marathon. I admire those who can master their body and have such control and dedication.

Philosophy on life: Stay positive and dream big. Don’t neglect to celebrate your successes, no matter how small they are.

Must-have beauty item: JamieO Skincare (of course!).

Happiness is: Helping others. Mom taught me that.

My heroes: My mother. She has been a powerful influence in my life and a great caretaker. And my brother who has cerebral palsy—his ability to always be happy and positive never ceases to amaze me.

I’d like to be remembered as: An unselfish person who cared about and helped lift others. One way I hope to do this is by fulfilling a dream my husband and I have to start a foundation that will provide anonymous assistance to those in need.

Favorite designer: My friend Abi Ferrin. +++

Maureen is wearing a Milly black and white patterned strapless dress ($645/The Shak) and Beyond Baroque necklace ($79).

Maureen is a public relations specialist with Brinker International and a four-year volunteer for the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. When this sports fanatic (football and basketball are her faves) manages to tear herself away from ESPN, she loves to visit some of Dallas’ most popular restaurants, including Mi Cocina, Sonny Bryan’s, and Nick & Sam’s—plus all the Brinker restaurants, of course.

Must-have beauty item: Mary Kay’s MK Signature NouriShine Lip Gloss in Cream & Sugar.

One goal I have yet to accomplish: I want to travel abroad to learn about other countries, cultures, and traditions and see how the rest of the world lives. I’d also like to learn other languages.

Philosophy on life: Live it to the fullest because tomorrow isn’t promised.

I knew I was a 10 Most Beautiful winner when: I read an e-mail from my dad congratulating me. I had just woken up, so it was a nice way to start the day.

Happiness is: Appreciating what I have, spending time with family and friends, and remaining positive through life’s trials and tribulations.

Favorite thing about Dallas: There’s so much to do. I’m never bored. I also love being a part of a city that has a rich history and is still growing.


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Cary is wearing a Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent shirt ($235/Barneys New York) and a Rag & Bone tail coat ($510/LFT).

Having a daughter with a disability has taken Cary’s life down a path she never could have imagined. This full-time mom is a program coordinator for REACH, a ministry founded at Lake Pointe Church in Rockwall to assist parents of special needs children. When she’s not helping others, Cary spends as much time as possible with her family and helping with their family business, Native Outdoors.

Favorite thing about Dallas: It’s a great place to grow as a person and try new things. Plus, there are a lot of career and volunteer opportunities.

In 10 years I hope to: Be in a place where I wake up each day at peace with my choices.

Must-have beauty item: Red lipstick. It instantly makes my teeth look whiter.

My hero: My daughter. Her special needs have opened up a whole new world to me. I now think about others first, and I understand what it really means to give love.

What I’d like to change about Dallas: I grew up in Colorado, and as much as I love Dallas, I wish it had more outdoor activities.

Philosophy on life: Always remember to treat others as you’d like to be treated.

Happiness is: Helping others, making people smile, and making my husband proud.

One goal I have yet to accomplish: It’s sort of an ongoing goal—to live each day the best I can.



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Yanci is wearing a black silk Poleci dress ($370/Elements) and black patent leather belt ($79/Club Monaco).

This mom and Fellowship Church worship leader is a former Miss Texas and fourth runner-up Miss America contestant. She used her pageantry earnings to pay her way through Dallas Theological Seminary, where she met her husband. This Southern girl with an enviable singing voice (she’s a recorded artist) comes from a family of calf-ropers. But don’t be fooled. She’s also a devotee of designer fashions.

Favorite designer: Diane von Furstenberg. There is not a garment of hers that doesn’t fit fabulously.

Philosophy on life: Look at things with hope. Try to see the best in people and bring that out.

What I’d like to change about Dallas: Having to get dressed up to go to the grocery store. I wish I could shop in my sweats!

In 10 years I hope to: Still be using the gifts God has given me. I’m a worship leader at my church, and I hope to continue doing that. It’s very important to me to impact others’ lives in a positive way.

Favorite thing about Dallas: The feeling it gives me. When I was a child, we’d drive into the city from my hometown of Childress to go shopping. My first glimpse of the Dallas skyline always filled me with excitement. It still does today.

I’d like to be remembered as: A person who loved to smile, served God, and cared about others. I want to be an example of what it means to have faith.

I knew I was a 10 Most Beautiful winner when: My husband checked the web site after I had gone to bed. He made me get up to see the results.

Must-have beauty item: Yves Saint Laurent Touche Éclat Radiant Touch. I don’t even know how to pronounce it, but I love it because you don’t need concealer or foundation if you wear it. You can go out without any other makeup and look great.


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Hilary is wearing a Karen Walker strapless black dress ($700/LFT).

You may recognize Hilary as the host of WFAA’s Hot On! Homes, and she has just added the title of author to her résumé with her first book, Career Diary of a TV Host: 30 Days on the Job. This Dallas native is also an actress with the Campbell Agency, and, in her spare time, she volunteers at her church. She enjoys running on the Katy Trail, playing tennis, and kick boxing.

In 10 years I hope to: Be a host on Entertainment Tonight or ESPN.

Philosophy on life: Let go and let God.

I knew I was a 10 Most Beautiful winner when: One of the D Beauty writers called me. I had been having a bad day, so it really cheered me up. I think my sister nominated me, but she won’t admit it.

What I’d like to change about Dallas: I’d like to get people to venture into unexplored areas like the Bishop Arts District. Too often we tend to stick with what’s comfortable. This city has so many cultural offerings; it’s unfortunate that more Dallasites don’t take advantage of them.

Favorite thing about Dallas: The food! I love Tillman’s Roadhouse, and I try to test out new restaurants every week.

One goal I have yet to accomplish: Making enough money to take care of my mom so she can retire.

My heroes: My mom. She was a single parent who graduated from college and went to dental school. She’s an extremely hard worker and a really fun person, too. I also admire Maria Menounos from Entertainment Tonight. She’s done so much at such a young age, and I think she’s a great TV personality.

Favorite designer: Nicole Miller. I love the way her clothes highlight my curves.

Happiness is: Sleeping, eating, or shopping. Dallas has some of the best shopping in the country.

I’d like to be remembered as: Someone who made time for others and wasn’t moving so fast that they didn’t have the time to stop and say a kind word.

Must-have beauty item: Revlon ColorStay foundation. When I’m out on shoots, it stays on all day.



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Marisa is wearing a Development by Erica Davies dress ($375/LFT).

This mom-to-be keeps herself busy by training horses, giving riding lessons, and assistant editing for a psychology journal. She has volunteered for Equest, the Ronald McDonald House, Dallas Children’s Theater, and the Suicide & Crisis Center, and she sings the national anthem at sporting events whenever she gets the chance.

Favorite thing about Dallas: The genuine, supportive, and generous people.

What I’d like to change about Dallas: I wish that Dallas had more clean, safe parks. I have lived in cities like Austin and Denver, so I have seen how green spaces can unify a city and promote healthy lifestyles. Sadly, I think Dallas is missing these types of places that encourage people to get out and enjoy their community.

One goal I have yet to accomplish: Working on my charity, Friends of Frisky, which will assist low-income people with feeding and caring for their pets.

Philosophy on life: My philosophy is one that was passed down to me by my father—get up every day and do the right thing.

My hero: Dr. Jane Goodall is my hero because through a lifetime of hard work and dedication, she has taken her passion for animals and expanded it to encourage compassion and understanding for all species, including humans. Her Roots & Shoots program ensures that her compassion and understanding will be passed on for generations. I think that is really the mark of a hero—someone who leaves the world better than they found it.

I’d like to be remembered as: Someone who not only made others’ lives easier but also brought joy to the world.

Must-have beauty item: My hairdresser, Deborah Kelly from Montana Salon, for her innovation, attention to detail, and patience. Gorgeous, healthy hair makes every outfit—even jeans and t-shirt—look like polished perfection! When my hair looks great, I feel like I have the best beauty accessory in town.

Favorite article of clothing: Right now it has to be my True Religion jeans because they are low enough to accommodate my expanding stomach.


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Asuséna is wearing a 3.1 Philip Lim dress ($620/Barneys New York) and a leather Blur jacket ($1,010/The Shak).

Asuséna works as a translator for BeautiControl, Inc. One of six children who are first-generation Americans, she teaches Spanish/English classes on the side, plays soccer and softball, and loves cooking. She also lectures and sings in the choir at Good Shepherd Catholic Community in Colleyville.

Happiness is: Spending time with the people I love, especially my nieces and nephews, who awe me with their innocence, curiosity, love for family, and amazing sense of humor.

My favorite thing about Dallas: The diversity. You can be yourself and find somewhere to fit in.

One goal I have yet to accomplish: Well, I have a few—to watch a Mavs game courtside and a professional boxing match ringside. I’d also like to travel the world, go on a mission trip, meet the pope, and become the next Food Network star.

In 10 years I hope to: Be financially stable, have my own business, and be acting and singing.

What I’d like to change about Dallas: I would definitely do away with the traffic in Dallas. Coming from a small town, it’s hard to adjust to all the cars and all the road rage! There is nothing worse than a person who has made it their mission not to let me merge onto the freeway as I am coming down the on-ramp.

My heroes: My parents. They made the ultimate sacrifice by coming to the United States from Mexico so that their children could have the opportunity to live the American dream.
Also, the U.S. military, past and present, including my brothers, Pete and Ramón Reséndiz, and my childhood friend Raymond Hernández. I appreciate them for protecting the many freedoms we often take for granted.

My must-have beauty item: An eyelash curler, because it opens up my eyes. For as long as I can remember, I have been curling my eyelashes. My 7-year-old niece recently saw me using my eyelash curler, and now she wants one. How am I going to explain that one to her parents?

Philosophy on life: Stay as positive as you can. Be thankful for what you have, and put God first.


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Ashley is wearing her own top and Beyond Baroque earrings ($50), vintage necklace ($219), and vintage necklace with amethyst ($163).

Ashley, a jewelry designer, shares her business, Beyond Baroque, with her best friend—her mom. Their studio is filled with one-of-kind pieces, some of which have been fashioned with treasures picked up on their annual trip to Beijing. She also sits on a handful of charity committees and delivers her goods to city organizations in need.

On being one of D Beauty’s 10 Most Beautiful Women: It’s a huge honor, because the contest wasn’t just based on outer beauty but on inner beauty as well. Plus, it was nice to make my grandmothers smile. One of them even wrote me a two-page letter telling me how proud she was.

Philosophy on life: The story of The Velveteen Rabbit said it best—be real.

My heroes: Firemen. I’ll cut across five lanes of traffic just to put money in their boot when they are out collecting. We lost our house in a fire when I was in high school, so that’s probably why I admire them so much.

Favorite designer: Diane von Furstenberg. Her dresses work year-round.

Beauty must-have: Mentholatum Ointment. I can’t sleep or fly long distances without it. It relieves minor muscle aches and works like a charm. But I can only find it at Dougherty’s in Preston Royal Village.

What I’d like to change about Dallas: I wish we had some kind of mass-transit system in place to cut down on traffic.

Happiness is: The life I’ve created.

One goal I have yet to accomplish: Being the mom that my mom is.

Favorite thing about Dallas: Mexican food, especially from Javier’s. And the Mavs. When I started working and got my first “real” paycheck, I used the money to buy season tickets.
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Mandy is wearing a black asymmetrical Elijah dress  ($330/Elements).

Mandy’s career in the nonprofit sector began with Best Buddies and the American Heart Association; now she’s the senior national field manager for Mothers Against Drunk Driving and sits on the volunteer committee for the Kilgore College Rangerettes alumni organization. The Dallas native is also a member of the Women’s Auxiliary to Children’s Medical Center.

Happiness is: Spending time with my niece and nephew who make me laugh harder than anyone else. They bring out the child in me.

Philosophy on life: Never give up on your hopes and dreams.

My heroes: My mom. She has been through so much and has managed to remain positive through it all. I am also inspired by many of the people I’ve met through my work with MADD. They have overcome personal tragedies and are using their experience to help others.

Must-have beauty item: I can’t live without Lancome’s L’ Extreme Lengthening Mascara in black. My lashes are pretty thin, so it makes them look longer and helps open up my eyes.

Favorite thing about Dallas: I was born and raised here, so I have a fondness for the State Fair and the Cowboys. Living elsewhere made me appreciate Dallas.

What I’d like to change about Dallas: The number of fatalities on our highways caused by drunk drivers. Last year more than 100 individuals were killed in Dallas County alone due to alcohol-related crashes.

In 10 years I hope to: Still be working in the nonprofit sector. That’s where my heart is.

Favorite article of clothing: My little black dress, because it’s slimming, comfortable, and perfect for any occasion.