Hannah Seymour Highlights Alabama's Unclaimed Baggage at Mrs. America 2024

A woman from Scottsboro, Alabama, is set to make waves in the 2024 Mrs. America Pageant by promoting the beauty of second-hand clothing. Hannah Seymour, representing Alabama, will take the stage in Las Vegas on August 28th, wearing outfits from the Unclaimed Baggage Center, a popular Alabama business.

Hannah, 31, has long been a fan of the Unclaimed Baggage Center. This unique store sells clothing and other items found in unclaimed suitcases from across the country, left behind by major airlines after 90 days. Hannah believes that by wearing these fashion pieces during the pageant, she can both represent Alabama businesses and highlight the importance of sustainability.

“Sustainability is really important to me. I love how Unclaimed Baggage gives new life to clothes that might have been forgotten. It’s a great way to show people that you don’t always need something new to look amazing,” Hannah shared. “Plus, supporting Alabama businesses that are doing good work is something I’m proud of.”

One of the pieces Hannah is most excited about is a red velvet gown designed by Johnathan Kayne. As a graduate of the University of Alabama, she hopes that wearing sustainably sourced outfits will inspire others, including her two children, to appreciate the value of second-hand clothing.

“As a mom, I want my kids to learn about taking care of our environment. Buying second-hand is a great way to do that,” Hannah said. “Fast fashion creates beautiful things, but we often move on quickly. There’s something special about giving clothes a new life.”

Another piece Hannah will showcase during the pageant is a blue off-the-shoulder dress by Dress the Population, which she found while exploring the 50,000-square-foot Unclaimed Baggage facility.

“I found my competition shoes and gown on the same day, and they’re definitely my favorites,” Hannah said. “I feel like a pageant queen must have lost her suitcase, and I found it!”

Hannah, who works as an accountant and business owner, participated in pageants during high school and college. She decided to compete again after learning about the Mrs. America Pageant, which celebrates accomplished married women across the nation. The winner will go on to compete at Mrs. World.

“When I heard about this pageant, I thought it was a great chance to get back into something I love, grow a little more, and set a good example for my daughter and son about dreaming big and being confident in who you are,” Hannah explained.