Porirua model search begins
If you’re short, over 30, or lack sass, then you’re out.
The modelling world hit Porirua on May 21 with a search for beautiful people from the city famed for its Pasifika flavour.
The atrium at Pataka Museum, was packed with teenagers and young adults chasing a modelling spot at New Zealand Fashion Week.
The casting call had drawn Porirua man Ailua Tagiilima, towering, slim, with smouldering eyes and tremendous hair.
Tagiilima said he had ‘‘walked’’ for Armani in the United States, and was confident he would win a spot at the Miromoda Fashion Show in June – a stepping stone to higher honours.
The show has run since 2009 as a showcase for Maori fashion designers.
Two designers and their models will be selected for national fashion week.
Potential models on Saturday faced some preliminary hurdles: they couldn’t be too short, and had to be aged between 15 and 30.
Designer and judge Bobby Campbell Luke said it was all about the look, and the walk.
Models need to be ‘‘fierce’’ and invisible at the same time – they should not be so striking they outshine the clothes.
Campbell Luke was impressed with the talent on show, a mix of professionals – those with agents – and amateurs.
‘‘There is sass in Porirua. We’ll find our models today,’’ he said.
Teenage friends Mereana Johnstone and Ami Henry were nervous as they prepared to take to the catwalk in front of a panel of three judges.
The girls signed up, were photographed, then were given walking tips by organiser - keep their shoulders back, look straight ahead, move heel-totoe, and pose at the end.
Johnstone said they came along after a little push from their families.
There will be 20 models from the auditions announced in the next few weeks.
Photos, P 24