Today at an editorial meeting, the phrase "it factor" came up in conversation. This is not one of my favorite phrases, to tell you the truth. It's one of those things we say that doesn't mean too much. Because, when it comes down to it, can you define "it factor"? I am guessing not.

But, still and yet, it is something we talk about. Many judges have used that phrase to describe our Miss Americas. The French call it "je ne sais quoi" which really just means "I don't know what." And I think that comes as close to a definition as you possibly can - I don't know what it is precisely that makes Miss America sparkle, but she has it.

When Nigel Barker, noted fashion photographer (call me, Nigel), judged the Miss America pageant, he spoke very eloquently about the concept of MIss America and celebrity. As eloquent as he was though (seriously, call me Nigel), he couldn't define the it factor. This is what I think of when someone says it:

•When she enters a room, everyone notices her.

•You feel like you are the only person in the room when she talks to you.

•She makes you want to be a better person.

What are the ways that YOU define the it factor?