Siberian economics student shows that big is beautiful

The 20 year old Novosibirsk student won the Miss Northern Aurora annual beauty contest in St Petersburg for women with a  Russian size 50 (XXL) and over. She beat off 300 applicants for the title, and immediately claimed that her body shape helps not hinders her personal relationships. 

'It was very exciting! I still can't believe I won the crown, every participant deserved it,' she said. 'My plus size actually helps me to have a nice circle - because it leaves you with people who are interested in you, your inner world, not your appearance.' 

The women strutted their stuff in old fashioned clothes, modern outfits and fashion wear 'for the future'. Irina, who lives in St Petersburg but studies remotely at Novosibirsk State University of Economics and Management, was the youngest of the dozen finalists. 

She also works for a telecommunications company. It is the third time the contest has been held.