"African Models Have What It take To Be At The Top"

Rosemary Chileshe is Zambia-born international model living and working in the United Kingdom. A highly sought-after international model whose face adorns several products ‘marketing efforts. As one of the faces of Sleek cosmetics her image has been used worldwide and she successfully led Sleek Campaign in Ghana for the country’s 50th Independence Anniversary. Rosemary is spokesperson for many brands.

She won the 2003 Miss Zambia UK beauty pageant. She represented Zambia at the Miss World Beauty Pageant 2004 hosted in China. Rosemary; she was this year’s Zambian envoy to Miss Universe 2007 Beauty Pageant, held in Mexico City, 28th May 2007. She’s been actively involved in charitable work as well as promoting the image of her mother country - Zambia. Outside her modeling commitments, she continues to utilize her influence as a goodwill ambassador with a solid foundation to help the fight against HIV/AIDS and poverty worldwide, with particular attention to Zambia. In July, 2007-Rosemary, Carl Ellis - a fashion designer and Miss Universe Zambia Team visited Orphanages - Kalingalinga (Lusaka). She also addressed an international audience at a Commonwealth Forum to commemorate World Aids Day 2006.

The story of this young Zambia star actually started as a beauty queen. Since she hit the catwalk in the UK in early 2000 it didn’t take long that she got signed on. After winning Miss Zambia UK 2003, Rosemary became a hot cake sought after by many agencies and designers alike, increasing the numbers shows in London, Manchester and around the UK that she was invited to.

Rosemary is a Commercial Property Surveyor. She’s the epitome of commitment, hard work and beauty. Our correspondent, Gbenga Teejay Okunlola, caught up with her recently. Find below interview he has for you.

TV: Tell our readers briefly about your family and educational backgrounds.

ROSEMARY: The other side of my profession is Property Surveying. I come from a family of Doctors, Engineers, Teachers, Accountants and those pursuing careers in law.

TV: It’s been a few years since you were crowned Miss Zambia UK. Would you say that was a turning point in your life?

ROSEMARY: No, winning Miss Zambia UK in 2003 was a progression to the next chapter. I had been actively involved in modeling prior to then. I was assigned to a Modeling Agency in Manchester that is where everything began; I was introduced to the industry, both its negatives and positives.

TV: Have you changed much since being crowned? If you have, in what ways? Do you enjoy being different? Is it ever an issue that you’re so much more elegantly dressed than your peers?

ROSEMARY: I am still the same Rosemary I have always been; of course with time, you pick up new interests; hence you evolve in your conduct. If anything I have probably changed the meaning of a Crown than the “crowning” changing me, I always say “it is not the crown that makes a person, it is the person wearing it who gives it meaning”. Being different on the other hand is a common factor to everyone; we are all designed in a unique format to everyone; so I definitely do enjoy being me, no one else out there can carry out a task, manage a project etc. the way in which I would; we have different thought processes.

In terms of being more elegantly dressed than my peers: dressing is a personal thing, at the end of the day, you wear what you feel comfortable in; and as a result, you look admirable to everyone else; you can not say “I am more elegant than the next party”, it’s a matter of opinion.
TV : How did you become a professional model? What are your dreams and expectations in modeling profession?

ROSEMARY: Modeling takes a lot of time and discipline. I was initially assigned to a Modeling Agency in Manchester where I was trained and groomed in the basic requirement. I then moved on to do various types of work in beauty pageantry as well as fashion shows. I always make it a point to learn something new from any projects I get involved in. My dreams are not only for me to be a well sought after Model / Ambassador worldwide but to encourage everyone else to follow their dreams, we have all got talents given to us, we just need to take time to realize them and act upon them. My expectations are not of the industry but of myself; you should never expect to get more out of something than you are prepared to put in!

TV : At one time or another, almost every young person dreams of becoming a famous model or actor. What advice would you like to give others who would like to pursue the same line of career as you?

ROSEMARY: It’s interesting you are asking me this; I am actually in the process of holding seminars to encourage young girls in the Yorkshire and Humberside areas, from 8 - 16 on the same issues. I would say it is fundamental to follow your dreams, no matter what you desire to do, I would urge for the basic areas to be covered in Education. Get your education covered, take time to analyze what you want to do and follow it through. Nothing will come easy, you need to exercise patience and allow room for disappointments; it’s through all of these that you will rise up. Once you have your educational background covered, you will always have that to come back to once your dream has reached its expiry lifespan or you realize modeling or if being an actor was not a desired route for you any longer.

TV : What’s the most fascinating experience you have had so far in your career?

ROSEMARY: I have had quite a few. I have to say, I am a very blessed young lady! Every experience encountered has been memorable. Miss World contest offered me opportunity to meet amazing people during the contest; it was not only sharing a stage with Lionel Richie, but also meeting him and sharing a conversation with him! At Miss Universe, it was meeting Mr Donald Trump and again, amazing girls with inspiring ambitions. In my charity work, I have met many humbled people both young and old, it is amazing how many dreams and desires everyone has and the determination they have in making them all a reality is overwhelming.

TV : Many young aspiring models lack self-confidence to build a healthy self-esteem, would you say training is the key ingredient to success? What do you think are the qualities to becoming an established model?

ROSEMARY: There are many aspiring models who lack self-confidence; I know this from my own observation of the industry and from girls writing to me via my website
(www.rosemarychileshe.com).For most of them, lack of self confidence is as a result of lack of support or not knowing where to go for help; for some it is simply being overwhelmed by the amount of personal time and effort they have to invest. Training is important but not necessary a key ingredient because every task calls for a different skill, you need to be adaptable to change and be willing to be taught. The qualities, in my view, of becoming an established Model range from self management, being disciplined and persistent. If you set your goals early on, you will know what paths to follow and when to say ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to various assignments. Some girls are set on being Models but have no real idea what that means for them; so they get caught up in saying “yes, yes” to everything, they lose their path and become history after a short while in the limelight.

TV : What do you think of African models in comparison to their western counterparts?
ROSEMARY: I believe African Models have what it takes to be at the top. They should not even give room to the thought that since they are Africans, they cannot be as good or as successful. In this industry, however, it a bit unfortunate we have to work twice as much to get to the same level as other counterparts; but that is okay, it means we get so experienced, we almost become a threat!

TV : Overall, despite difficulties in getting sponsorship and adequate support from their governments, many African models still thrive on the world stage due to their courage, tenacity, perseverance and sheer hard work. So, could they make ideal ambassadors for their nations? Could they be suitable role models for African youth?

ROSEMARY: Yes, they would definitely make ideal ambassadors. This all gets down to the person as an individual. The fact that they choose to carry on for the love of what they believe in, whether there is support or not, as apposed to doing something because it looks good, basically for show, warrant them that role.

TV : Tell me what the negative and positive sides in this industry are.

ROSEMARY: Well, I guess like in every industry there is always negative and positive sides. In the modeling industry, I feel the negative is that discrimination is still actively there for minorities. You could be 100% better than the person next to you; however a bigger chunk of your selection process also lies heavily on your ethnic background. The positive sides in my view are the opportunities you get; you are more able to be a spokesperson for your peers, you get a platform to reach out to so many people.

TV : You are Co-founder of the charity organization-R.O.C Foundation, tell me more about it and your partnership with Carl Ellis?

ROSEMARY: I have always been a dedicated charity worker. HIV/AIDS Awareness is an area I feel more of us need to step up and do our bit in educating one another. Carl Ellis is a fellow Zambian, experienced in fashion design and an accountant by profession. We teamed up initially to work on his Mother Africa Fashion Label, where I am currently the face of the label, which is getting a lot of press attention worldwide, especially as it is debuting at South Africa Fashion Week from late August to early September. In getting to know one another, we realized we shared the same passion for our motherland and we both desperately wanted to do something to raise HIV/AIDS Awareness. We decided to set up the ROC Foundation -www.therocfoundation.com with an aim of raising the HIV/AIDS Awareness worldwide and alleviating poverty. Our recent trip back to Zambia was purely focused on finding an existing charity, orphanage etc in Lusaka, one in greater need of financial support so that for 1 year, through the ROC Foundation, we can raise funds and feed it back to that charity or orphanage.

TV : You’ve been involved with some social responsibility and remarkable projects. Are other African celebrities like you in the Diaspora doing positive things for the motherland?

ROSEMARY: I believe so, there are so many people doing remarkable work for charity but they are not “documented” or captured in the public eyes. I admire such traits in people; they do the work and offer their assistance because they simply want to help, they are not seeking credit, it’s the best way to be I believe…. because God sees all that is done.

TV : Has your parents been supportive? Were they proud of you when you became a professional model?
ROSEMARY: Yes, very much! my whole family have always been supportive and encouraging …..

TV : What subjects interested you most as a schoolgirl?

ROSEMARY: Mathematics, English and Business Management. Were my favorites’ because I believed it would offer me a wider choice in specialist routes; as a result, my degree at university was Business Property Management, I now work in a Property Surveying company

TV : There’s widespread corruption amongst African Leaders, Does the thought of entering the political arena ever flash across your mind? Do you feel a strong personal commitment to change in Africa?

ROSEMARY: No, politics is not for me. There are people born for the job, I am not one of them. I do however have a personal desire to change a lot of areas in Africa ;only where my expertise are called for, you can only do so much as an individual.

TV : Models have become extremely powerful as role models, and often something as simple as a change in skirt length can be interpreted as having political significance. What’s your take on that?

ROSEMARY: There are different image you need to portray in various scenarios. If you want to be taken seriously in a business meeting for example, it makes sense to be dressed appropriately, be it, in a suit or a long skirt etc. The bottom line is that you need to “dress the part“; clothes are powerful in their own rights, they could either break you or make you!

TV : Do you have any plans in the pipeline for a fashion label targeting the Africans?

ROSEMARY: Definitely, no definite dates have been penciled for that yet; however plans have been discussed on the subject matter. Currently you could say I am learning the robes whilst fronting the Mother Africa Fashion Label.

TV : How would you describe Beauty and Elegance?

ROSEMARY: Very typical, however it is in the eyes of the beholder! Everyone is beautiful in their own rights, Elegance is a personal trait.

TV : Lack of African/Black Models on Runway. Is this reflective of the industry?

ROSEMARY: Sadly, yes, the Industry calls for patience and persistence; I believe things will change, though slowly but surely.

TV : When you get to a certain point in your career would you become very vocal about the need for more black models in fashion shows and on magazine covers?

ROSEMARY: Most definitely, I am pushing myself to get there first as I believe this is the best way to voice the concern and to show that it can be done. A lot of the times, it is best to have actions than words.

TV : Other than being home of the Victoria Falls and many other magnificent waterfalls, spectacular wildlife, superb safaris, great adventures, rich culture and friendly people, what makes Zambia different from other African nations?

ROSEMARY: Its vast potential for growth, flare of talents, creativity and innovation of its people in trades and textiles.

TV : Tell us things we don’t know about you. And what’s your Christian life like?

ROSEMARY: I am a well rounded person. Monday to Friday, I work 9-5:30 as a Property Surveyor currently dealing lettings, acquisitions and disposals of Industrial Units. My weekends are mostly consumed with travel in respect of my fashion and charity work. I worship with New Apostolic and very active in my work on Sundays, I am in church where I sing soprano in the choir and assist with the Sunday School children from the ages of 10+.

TV : How do you think you managed to break through in modeling and achieve not just success, but early success?

ROSEMARY:I believe my achievements have been through taking time to realize what my aspirations are and being focused enough to be able to turn down certain assignments because they do not fit my desired work ethics.

TV : Miss Universe 2007, (the 56th Miss Universe pageant) was won by Riyo Mori of Japan. As Zuleyka Rivera was crowning Riyo Mori with the official Mikimoto crown, it slipped from her grasp and nearly fell to the floor. Mori was able to catch the crown. What were you thinking in that split moment?

ROSEMARY: “Ooops”, no, I was just so happy for her, with many people on the stage, I did not even see the crown slipping until afterwards in photos etc. I was busy cheering on in the background, the whole experience was overwhelming, the moment of the crowning was a mixture of excitement and being relieved it was all over and I would be going home soon. We were there for a whole month of hard work; it was great whilst it lasted.

TV : Where would you like to see the Rosemary Chileshe in ten years’ time?

ROSEMARY: Rosemary Chileshe is a brand, so you will be seeing her face on billboards, on international runways and fronting cosmetic brands etc..Her name will also be linked to a number of charity activities through her charity - the ROC Foundation. I am also a motivational speaker….. my aim is to move into that arena and encourage the youth to be the leaders that they are for our future generations!

TV : What’s your normal day like?

ROSEMARY: Consumed with hard work from early mornings till late evening and where time permits, spending quality time with loved ones, friends etc.

TV : Are you into any relationship? Is there a Mr. Right at the moment?
ROSEMARY: Yes I am and I believe God has blessed me with a wonderful partner in life.

TV : How do you brace yourself up for some unwelcome opposite sex attention?
ROSEMARY: I never tolerate it, I am very upfront and always make it clear from the beginning that I am all about the business at hand.

TV : Who is your role model and why?

ROSEMARY: First and foremost, our heavenly Father, only through him is everything possible; my family as a whole because they are supportive and always encourage me to follow my dreams and finally but not least, my friends, through their achievements and dreams, am also inspired to move forward.

TV : What’s your definition of a ‘classy woman’?
ROSEMARY: Confident; one with self respect; being able to laugh at her own misfortunes; taking responsibility for her own mistakes etc being mysterious and business minded.

TV : When people ask what you do for a living, how do you describe your occupation?
ROSEMARY: I tell them, “I do everything from Property, Fashion to Charity work”. In more straightforward terms, I am a Property Surveyor by 9 - 5:30 profession and on my other side; I am an established Fashion Model and a dedicated Charity worker.

TV : Can you talk about what those benefits were that you saw in the early stages of your modeling career?

ROSEMARY: Having a platform to stand on and be heard.

TV : What else would you like to add?

ROSEMARY: Through my charity work, I was awarded GAB (Gathering of Africa’s Best) Award in 2006. You can visit my website and view all of my past work and future assignments on: www.rosemarychileshe.com; also you can read about my charity- the ROC Foundation - www.therocfoundation.com

Source/Credits: Gbenga Teejay Okunlola and Modern Ghana

Justine Willoughby - A true fashion, beauty gem

Former Pulse model Justine Willoughby at the recent supermodel reunion at Pulse's Caribbean Fashion model search held at the Hilton Kingston hotel. - Peta-Gaye Clachar/Staff Photographer

"When a (wo)man faces destiny, destiny ends and (wo)man comes into (her)his own" - Malraux

Undeniably fated to tread this path, Pulse supermodel Justine Willoughby is testament to the French cultural icon André Malraux's thoughts on embracing one's destiny. The daughter of former Jamaican beauty queen Virginia Lacroix and media personality Neville Willoughby, it was clear that Justine would end up with impeccable credentials in both departments; brains and beauty.

Subscribing to the preordained, Justine entered the Pulse Model Search in 1988 but failed to make the impact for which she was hoping. Not to be discouraged, the tenacious teen took another shot at it in 1989 and was placed second.

This subsequent tryout proved to be the charm, and fashion magnate Kingsley Cooper prepared the world to receive the 18-year-old doe-eyed beauty.

Travels

After the pageant, Justine was signed to New York's Click Modelling Agency and then moved to Wilhelmina Models while completing a variety of assignments that took her to Paris, London and even Morocco. "I got a great assignment for the French magazine Madame Figaro in Morocco. I travelled there for the shoot via Paris and it was a great experience, like being in a glamorous film. I was somewhat nervous, but overall, I enjoyed the experience."

Her engaging eyes and thick mane, coupled with her island girl flavour, gave her a distinctive edge in the highly competitive arena. "Many photographers and clients were very intrigued to hear that I am Jamaican. A lot of people in the industry had travelled to Jamaica on shoots and had loved the island and its people," said the bronzed beauty. Several editorials and campaigns later, including work for magazines like French Marie Claire, Seventeen, and John Frieda, Justine wanted to explore other facets of her destiny.

In 1995, the 23-year-old model entered the Miss Jamaica Universe Pageant. She brought home her family's third Miss Jamaica Universe crown (both mother and aunt had won). Donating a portion of her prize money to the Maxfield Park Children's Home, Justine undertook additional community development projects and contributed significantly to the Miss Jamaica Universe Children's Fund, fulfilling her role as a truly outstanding ambassador for Jamaica. After the pageant ended, the 5'9" beauty headed to the Miss Universe Pageant in Namibia where she was well received. On her return, she flew to Martinique to participate in the Miss Caribe pageant where her gorgeous face, matching effervescence and intelligence ensured her a spot in the top three. The runway soon beckoned once more, and she headed off to New York where she had a very successful season doing several major editorials and catalogues.

Over the years, Justine has enjoyed success with a wide variety of modelling assignments which have taken her to several parts of the globe, including France, England, America, Germany, Holland and South Africa. For her, this turned out to be a truly enriching experience and the most rewarding aspect of the job. "I had always been interested in fashion and modelling as a teenager and I was keen to pursue a career in modelling. This has given me the opportunity to see the world, meet interesting people and experience different cultures," Justine admitted.

Gave up the limelight

Though attracted to the lure of the jet-set life, Justine eventually gave up the limelight of the runway to return home. Since retiring from active modelling, Justine followed other passions and pursued a B.A. in French and philosophy (Hons) from the University of the West Indies. She now works as a journalist in the television and print media, as well as on public relations projects.

Now a full-fledged member of the media fraternity, Justine reflects on her career which was quite different from what modelling is today: "There is competition coming from personalities outside of the mainstream modelling industry. Actresses and music superstars such as Scarlett Johansson, Halle Berry and Beyoncé are constantly on the major magazine covers and many designer and beauty campaigns."

However, she asserts that keeping a positive outlook in an industry that is described by many as fickle, cut-throat and aggressive is mandatory. "Realise that even though you might not get the job, it is not because of your lack of beauty, but rather a specific look that the client wants. All models should have a professional attitude; be on time, courteous and aware of what the client expects."

Source: Jamaica Gleaner News

Tadashi Shoji – New York Fashion Week Spring 2008

Hilary Cruz (Miss Teen USA 2007, left), Rachel Smith (Miss USA 2007, second from left) and Tara Conner (Miss USA 2006) were three of the numerous celebrities hitting the shows this season. Photo by Christopher Bourne

By Christopher Bourne

L.A. based designer Tadashi Shoji, in his second appearance at New York Fashion Week on Sept. 12, impressed with his latest show inspired by the colors and textures of the ocean.

This theme made for a quite aesthetically pleasing show, with such colors as Aegean blue, coral, oyster, and bamboo dominant throughout. Coolly elegant cocktail dresses and evening wear made extensive use of ruffles and folds that evoked the sea in every facet of their design.

This show left no doubt as to why Tadashi is the go-to designer for such celebrities as Tyra Banks and Halle Berry, as well as the Miss Universe and Miss USA pageants. Practically speaking, most of these dresses would perhaps be out of place anywhere else other than Hollywood red carpets and beauty competitions. Still, on this day, the overall effect was quite memorable.

Source: Meniscus Magazine

Roger Gary, Facts and Roses team up for fashion 'xpo'

New York-based Guyanese designer/producer Roger Gary and the Facts and Roses husband and wife team Trevor Rose and Michelle Cole-Rose are the brains behind next Easter's Guyana Fashion Xpo (GFX).

The three well-known designers, who were conspicuously absent from last month's Guyana Fashion Weekend, plan to make a bold statement with this event, which they say will be an annual one. It is billed for the Easter weekend at Splashmin's Resort, which in recent years has been host to the Miss Guyana Universe Pageant.

According to a statement from the organizers, they also plan to use the Demerara Harbour Bridge as the "world's longest runway" as part of the promotional package for the GFX. The organizers say they foresee 100 male and female models beginning their catwalk strut on the West Demerara and modelling their way across the 1.25 miles bridge to culminate on the East Demerara. "Plans are in motion," they say, "for a representative of the Guinness Book of Records to be present so that the event can be officially recorded."

Meanwhile, as regards the main event, the organizers say there will be a specially constructed 80 ft catwalk at Splashmin's. "Designers will present their collections on a casted array of local, regional and international models strutting on the spectacular GFX 80 ft. long runway, especially created for the affair and which features a natural fresh waterfall backdrop."

Running conjointly with the runway segment, will be the GFX Fashion Boutique, offering opportunities to display and sell a wide variety of designer merchandise. The local, regional and international press will be on hand to capture the event, the release said.

The organizers said GFX had a successful preview at the Umana Yana in March (during Cricket World Cup) and was expected to highlight "the talent and skills of designers, models, stylists, hair and make-up artists, creating a sizzling weekend of fashion unparalleled in the southern Caribbean." It is expected that whilst the event would bring businesses and services ancillary to the industry from Guyana and the region together, it will also serve to propel Guyana as the region's new fashion and manufacturing hub.

"Set against the backdrop of its lush rainforest, ma-jestic rivers, soothing lakes, natural wildlife and an eco-friendly environment, Guyana will showcase its culture and style to the world as it plays host to the first annual Guy-ana Fashion Xpo," the release said.

Source: Stabroek News

A ‘Khwaahish’ for Sushmita tonight

Maheka Mirpuri uses former Miss Universe as a princess for her festive collection preview.

Designer Maheka Mirpuri, who dreamed like every little girl of one day being a princess, has fulfilled this desire with her new fashion collection called ‘Khwaahish’.

It previews tonight, with Miss Universe Sushmita Sen playing Maheka’s princess on the ramp, in a glittering display of fashion that is at once royal and opulent... but also minimalistic.

Maheka describes her new line as being flowy, with layers and layers of long fabric that provide the users with movement when they walk. “It is pretty and very girlie,” she admitted, “and I have used minimalistic embroidery. The royal touch has been acquired by the use of a lot of olden time stuff, you know, like fabric, texture, style, culture, and silhouette.”

So there are sherwanis in a contemporary look, brocade lehengas westernised with corsets, satin and brocade churidhaars with leather cuffs, that sort of thing. Mehaka has also used chunky precious stones in her garments that, she said, is very couture. “They are the main feature, their sizes, styles and colour all symbolise richness and royalty,” she explained.

And as for Sushmita Sen, yes, she will walk the finale. So make sure you are invited to the preview of ‘Khwaahish’ tonight. “Sushmita has the right form,” said the designer. “When I thought of this theme, I knew she was the perfect person to dress as a princess, and I’ve given her garments a dreamy, flowy and festive look.”

Source: The Times of India

Jennifer Hawkins' visit was a letdown

By Nikki Parkinson

She came, she saw and she cut a ribbon.

The Jennifer Hawkins show stopped briefly in Brisbane this week and I was ringside for the event.

I’d like to tell you, dear readers, that this was a privileged position to be in but alas, the term VIP was not as VI as I had hoped.

You see, when it comes to supermodels, I’ve been a bit spoilt.

In 2004 that I had one-on-one interview time with Megan Gale during a stay at the Conrad Treasury – and earlier this year I got to stand around in a small circle of fellow fashion journos while Elle Macpherson held court.

So when the invitation to have breakfast with Jennifer Hawkins arrived last week, I deluded myself that it would be me, Jen and a few important media types sitting down for a bowl of muesli and a flat white.

The scenario that unfolded before me on Tuesday morning could not have been further from this.

We lined up (admittedly on red carpet) and made a grand entrance into Myer Chermside at 7.30am, only to be ushered down to the store’s cosmetics hall.

By the time we (my hubby had taken the day off for a chance to get up close and personal with Jen) were munching on our first mini croissant and downing a glass of Janz bubbles, there were about 50 people doing the same thing.

That number continued to grow and an hour later there was audible concern from the punters as to whether the star guest was actually going to show.

Minutes later when she did, one Myer frequent shopper near us commented that it was just like royalty.

The crowd parted and Miss Hawkins did a half lap of the crowd in teetering gold stilettos before taking to the mini stage, answering a few staged questions about life and fashion, then officially opening the refurbished store.

All fab stuff, but I couldn’t help feeling a little let down.

After all, here was Australia’s favourite girl next door, standing just metres away from me.

Unfortunately for me – and my desire for a fashion scoop - she was also just metres from about 200 others.

Source: Sunshine Coast Daily

Gorgeous Jen swoops in

Former Miss Universe Jennifer Hawkins flew in to Adelaide today, ready to set the fashion world on fire.

FORMER Miss Universe Jennifer Hawkins swept into Adelaide today – ready to set the fashion scene on fire with her dazzling smile and supermodel looks.

Ms Hawkins, 23, will tonight headline the Myer summer fashion collection before 250 VIPs including fashion designer Wayne Cooper and retiring Crows captain Mark Ricciuto.

The gorgeous model said she was happy to be in Adelaide.

"I don't get to see much while I'm here – except for hotels and the airport," she said.

"I have been very busy lately. On Monday I fly to NZ for a tour of the South Island for the Great Outdoors (TV show)."

Source: Adelaide Now

Hats off to Hawko

On the right track... Jennifer Hawkins is among the fashion plates set to support Australia's racing industry after the devastating equine flu epidemic.


by Jen Melocco


THE fillies will finally be back on the track - and beside it - this weekend, as a real race meeting returns to Sydney.

Rosehill is preparing for a bumper 12-race program on Saturday, complete with actual punters, while Sydney's event-starved fashionistas are gearing up for a glamorous return to the track.

With the equine flu epidemic destroying much of the Sydney thoroughbred season, horse lover Jennifer Hawkins yesterday said it was time to get behind the racing industry as the Melbourne Cup looms.

Hawkins modelled some of the latest raceday fashions as she made a plea for Sydney racegoers, who have missed out on much of the fun of the track, to embrace the upcoming Melbourne Spring Carnival.

"I love ladylike dresses with romantic silk and lace," Hawkins said after wrapping up a fashion shoot for Myer at Bowral.

This season, Hawkins said a touch of black and white was perfect for a day like Derby Day.

When it comes to that other essential piece of raceday clothing - hats - this season's strong metallic shades are the way to go.

"Metallics are huge this year and look great teamed with black and white for Derby Day," she said.

While, for the Melbourne Cup, a burst of colour was needed.

Myer director of apparel, Judy Coomber, said while Sydney had missed out on dressing up this spring carnival, there would be more interest than usual from those contravelling interstate for the Cup.

"We are still showcasing a great range of Spring Racing dresses and millinery as we believe there will be an increased interest in the Melbourne Carnival," Ms Coomber said.

Rosehill confirmed Saturday's meeting would be expanded from nine races to 12, to accommodate the bulk of 325 horses nominated.

Two races have attracted 50 or more nominations and two other races have 40 or more.

The meeting is open to both locally and Warwick Farm-trained horses and kicks off at 10.15am.

Dates for the resumption of racing in other parts of NSW should become clearer today.

Source: The Daily Telegraph

Thinking about your ensemble for the Spring Racing Carnival? Don't worry - you don't need to be a thoroughbred like former Miss Universe Jennifer Hawkins to turn the heads of the colts on-course.

That's because flowing maxi dresses are set to make a big comeback this season.

Hawkins visited Brisbane today, talking fashion and meeting hoards of fans at the Myer store at Chermside.

As the face of the Myer Spring/Summer collections, Hawkins had a few hot tips to share when it came to staying chic for the carnival.

Simple sixties elegance with a hit of feminine charm was the season's forecasted fashion themes; Hawkins herself epitomising the trends in two different spring frocks from the new Myer range.

Both ensembles were entirely girly, with sky high hemlines and fabulous heels.

The fresh and flirtatiously glamorous look also translated to hair and headwear - with Hawkins herself admitting she was not a fan of fascinators, which were popular in 2006.

A great hat or a head of flawless hair were her suggestions for the style savvy, a point reiterated by stylist Steven Mena, who created Hawkins' look for the day.

Soft curls, free form and a natural shape were his season predictions, recommending the hair conscious steer clear of stiff structure and dead straight styles.

Makeup was similarly unfussy, with Mena using neutral tones to craft Hawkin's smoky-eyed, sun-kissed, very natural look.

Of course, when opting for a barely-there face, the power of powder cannot be underestimated in maintaining that much desired dewy finish.

To this end, Mena recommended a fresh and shine-free look accompanied by a handbag packed with a trusted compact, eye pencil and gloss.

Hawkins was excited with the new season's trends and the upcoming carnival, which will go ahead in Brisbane despite the horse flu crisis.

And punters needn't worry this season when it comes to navigating race tracks (a minefield for the stilettoed fashionista) - because when it comes to shoes, wedged heels win by the length of the home straight.

Source: Brisbane Times.com

Lara Dutta on a roll, carries designer sister along

Former Miss World (2000) and United Nations Population Fund Goodwill Ambassador Lara Dutta is on a roll.

Lara Dutta unveils her sister Cheryl's new collection at Cypress on 11th September 2007. Photo Credit: IANS Photos

14 September 2007 (Sawf News) - Former Miss World (2000) and United Nations Population Fund Goodwill Ambassador Lara Dutta is on a roll.

After winning critical acclaim for her role in Jhoom Barabar Jhoom the 29 year old daughter of a former Indian Air Force officer has been busy signing films and interestingly most of them have been opposite Salman Khan.

Earlier this year Lara appeared opposite Salman in the very successful comedy Partner that also starred Govinda and Katrina Kaif in the lead.

Lara Dutta unveils her sister Cheryl's new collection at Cypress on 11th September 2007. Photo Credit: IANS Photos

Lara is reportedly working in three more films with Salman - Rajkumar Santoshi's London Dreams, debutant director Prem Soni's Mr and Mrs Khanna and Partner followup Tom and Jerry.

There is a good reason Salman prefers to work with Lara Dutta as his love interest rather than squeeze Katrina Kaif. Salman, who is inclined to do comedies these days, feels Lara has an edge over Katrina in the genre.

Lara Dutta and Salman Khan became friends while shooting for Partner.

Lara Dutta unveils her sister Cheryl's new collection at Cypress on 11th September 2007. Photo Credit: IANS Photos

On Tuesday (11 Sep 2007) Lara Dutta helped her designer sister Cheryl Dutta launch her bridal collection.

Cheryl says, "I always had the aesthetical sense of designing but had never thought of retailing my creations. But finally, I took the step and am very happy with my decision."

The budding designer was all praise for her better known sister.

"Lara is my muse. She was always the stylish one at home, and she carries off almost every outfit so well!"

Source: Sawf News

Jen Hawkins' contract dilemma

SHE'S proved herself a polished performer on the fashion circuit, looking catwalk-ready as she jetted back into Sydney from a national tour of duty for her retail bosses Myer this week.

But just where Jennifer Hawkins will touch down on the television tarmac next is the multi-million dollar question facing the beauty right now.

Reps for the Channel 7 favourite have been in contract negotiations with the network which made her a star, with insiders claiming a decision on her future is expected as early as next week.

While Seven gave her a start on the box, the former Miss Universe has set her sights beyond her presenting role on travel show, The Great Outdoors, rejecting the idea of moving to a similar slot on rival Channel 9's Getaway as "tacky".

Nine held preliminary talks with Hawkins' manager Sean Anderson last month before the pair are believed to have sat down to crunch numbers.

Source: The Daily Telegraph

Fashion Week: Tadashi Goes Environment, While Anne Klein Celebrates Spring

One celebrity fashion designer devotes his collection to the environment while another celebrates the rites of spring. NY1 Cheryl Wills bring us the latest designs of Tadashi and Anne Klein.

Jacques Cousteau would be proud. Tadashi Shoji's spring 2008 collection is all about the deep blue sea and the wonderment of the natural environment.

The Los Angeles-based designer revealed a tidal wave of flowing dresses and gowns that he says reflects the fluidity of water.

Shoji is the official fashion designer for the Miss Universe Organization and beauty queens at his show said his spring collection is one of his best yet.

"It's always fresh,” said Miss USA Rachel Smith. “I really enjoy his brilliant colors that he uses.”

"I love Tadashi's clothes because regardless it fits me perfect,” said former Miss USA Tara Conner. “Tadashi is such a sweet person, anyway, that there's good vibes that come from it."

When is the last time you've seen bamboo on a dress? Only Shoji could pull that off.

"It's a hand-woven bamboo corset bustier and – look at this – seaming, maybe a hundred different seams,” said designer Tadashi Shoji. “Feathery, real chiffon. Feather-like leaves.”

From a nod to the environment to a burst of spring, we check out Anne Klein.

Spring is most definitely in the air, as Anne Klein's spring 2008 line comes into full bloom. The venerable designer makes a comeback of sorts with playful prints and sensual suits that are impressive by day and sensual by night.

Klein says it her inspiration came quite by accident.

"There's blooming dresses – actually it all happened because my husband was painting in his workroom, in his studio and he got some of the paint on some of the dresses and I said, ‘Oh my God! That's so beautiful,” said Anne Klein creative director Isabel Toledo. “It came alive."

Anne Klein’s 2008 collection is very much alive and well for the sophisticated woman who knows how to transform a power suit into anything she wants.

– Cheryl Wills

Source: New York 1 News