Olivia Culpo crowned Miss Universe 2012

American Olivia Culpo was crowned Miss Universe 2012 at a gala ceremony Wednesday.

Philippines' Janine Tugonon was adjudged the first runner-up followed by Venezuela's Irene Esser.

India's Shilpa Singh made it to the top 16 spot but failed to progress further.

Miss Universe 2011 Leila Lopes of Angola crowned Culpo as the new Miss Universe at the glittering ceremony held at Planet Hollywood casino on the Las Vegas Strip.

As many as 89 beauty queens from around the world descended on Las Vegas Wednesday night to compete for the title of Miss Universe.

The panel of 10 judges included singer Cee Lo Green, Pablo Sandoval of the World Series champion Giants, "Iron Chef" star Masaharu Morimoto and US Olympic beach volleyball gold medallist Kerri Walsh Jennings.