So, after the bathing suit competition, and the talent portion, and their attempts at the evening wear exhibition, here we have the finalists in the Union Square Market Pullover button competition.
You can see that they're all a little nervous, and very excited to be here.
Now, Mom and I have already discussed this and have our own opinions, but I thought I'd ask for yours (yes, yours) before actually attaching anything to the sweater.
From left to right (and in no particular order):
A slightly rounded, 4-hole button in a winy-red, with just the merest hint of shine on the surface, this Streamline button enjoys walks in the woods and a nice glass of Merlot in front of a roaring fire.
Seabird, a coppery shank button, likes walks on the beach, where the sun can bring out her lovely, elegant shimmer.
Everest is a serious, 2-holed, rust-colored button. She might not have signed up for anything as frivolous as a beauty contest, except for the scholarship--her first step toward the Doctorate degree in International Relations necessary for her goal of world peace.
Four-holed and faintly purple, Coronado has always believed herself to be destined for great things, perhaps The Stage, or the Big Screen. She knows she's destined to make her mark on the world--could her beauty be meant for anything less?
Carolina just wants to have a good time, a bright red shank button with a playful swirl, some consider her a long-shot in this competition, but she insists she's just happy to be here.
Who do you think should win? Or should I just use a combination--they look pretty cute lined up in a row!

Everest. Not only does Everest 'sing' to me with the sweater, but You climbed and conquered Mt. Everest difficulties to finish her!
Posted by: Nancy J | December 05, 2005 at 07:09 PM
My vote goes for Streamlined. A perfect match (at least on my monitor). 1st runner up would be Everest.
Posted by: bethe | December 05, 2005 at 08:00 PM
I like the streamlined ones. Do I get a prize now? Or at least a sticker that says "I Voted"?
Posted by: Carole | December 05, 2005 at 08:26 PM
I like the Streamlined buttons as well. I'd give second place to the Everest buttons.
Posted by: Liz | December 05, 2005 at 08:47 PM
I like everest cause she's more subtle :)
Posted by: pixie | December 05, 2005 at 08:54 PM
My vote is for Streamline. I like the shape the best, and the color is great.
Posted by: Gracie | December 05, 2005 at 10:14 PM
Numero uno, per favore.
Posted by: Christina | December 05, 2005 at 10:20 PM
Streamline. Though Carolina has her merits as well. She's a little more playful.
Posted by: Lorette | December 05, 2005 at 10:21 PM
I'm chiming in with the crowd. First and second place go to Streamline and Everest. They are both fine buttons and would do an honorable job as representatives of the USMP organization. This judge gives Streamline a 9.5 for the hint of sheen and Everest receives a 9.0. In the event that Streamline would be unable to fulfill her duties on the USMP, the first runner-up, Everest would be a perfectly acceptable alternative.
Posted by: Beth | December 05, 2005 at 10:25 PM
um, i dont' care for any of them. they all seem too orange for me. but if i have to pick one, it would be the middle one in the line up. eh?
Posted by: minnie | December 05, 2005 at 10:25 PM
I go for Everest! :-)
Posted by: Samantha | December 05, 2005 at 10:37 PM
I vote for Everest. Streamline is my second choice
Posted by: Paula | December 05, 2005 at 11:16 PM
Streamline deserves the tiara unless she gets all upitty and slaps the other gals around with her flowers.
Posted by: Michelle | December 06, 2005 at 12:05 AM
feeling a little sheepish as I vote for 1. none of the above, 2. the Streamline.
In defending my vote, I just think this pullover calls for a little more punch in the button than a plain matching plastic disk. I know button shopping can be a pain - I routinely help people pick buttons at a fabric store where I teach.
Posted by: Marji | December 06, 2005 at 12:21 AM
Out of the choices before me, it has to be either Streamline or Everest. Colorwise. However, I do agree with Marji; I think this sweater would look best with something a bit more unique and probably a shank button rather than a 4-hole button. Have you seen http://www.ButtonShoppe.com? Good luck with your choice!!
Posted by: Karma | December 06, 2005 at 01:51 AM
Streamline. She's an elegant classic.
Posted by: Jessica | December 06, 2005 at 02:31 AM
everest or coronado! two totally different looks, but they both just seem 'right'.
Posted by: andrea | December 06, 2005 at 02:53 AM
Looking at the photos I go with Streamkine too, although it's so hard to decide unless you have it right in front of you, it might be a totally different story then. Hurry up and choose though, I really want to see this one on!
Posted by: Tracy | December 06, 2005 at 05:39 AM
I couldn't get Streamline out of my head after she walked onto the stage. Class poise, she's got it all.
Posted by: Susan | December 06, 2005 at 07:47 AM
Everest or Streamline. Can't go wrong.
Posted by: Laurie | December 06, 2005 at 08:39 AM
I like Streamline, too. Although I must admit my eyes wandered several times to Coronado for her exotic coloring.
Posted by: Norma | December 06, 2005 at 08:48 AM
Everest, Seabird, Streamline! ;)
Posted by: jess | December 06, 2005 at 09:00 AM
hmmm stream line MATCHES--- but sea bird has more style---- uuuumph.....am wondering if it's just my monitor- I WANT seabird to work---- but streamline seems safest from this view.
honestly- would go with something pewtery---- or very standout--- the buttons on this as the buttons are more style than funfition--- (rt?)
Posted by: tracey | December 06, 2005 at 09:41 AM
After much deliberation, I must vote for the Coronado buttons! I think they'll add a little "snap" to your sweater :)
Posted by: Annie | December 06, 2005 at 10:50 AM
Everest!
Posted by: Julie | December 06, 2005 at 11:06 AM