Elite Model Look is the biggest model competition in the World, it travels around the globe searching for the best new, model talent to add to their books. 

60% of Elite Models are found through Elite Model Look and last weekend, it took over The Trafford Centre, Manchester. Not content with the amazing competition alone, there were also activities available including free Eyelure eyelashes, hairstyling by Toni and Guy and wardrobe styling by Warehouse.

The process of the competition is simple, Elite are looking for girls aged 14 - 20 and over 172cm tall, but the catwalk is open to everyone so if you think you've got what it takes you can strut your stuff in front of top model bookers. By the time I arrived there was an enormous queue of beautiful young girls snaking around the Elite catwalk, each with completed form and polaroid in hand.

While the queue head bookers were working their way through the line of hopeful models, I spoke to an established Elite Model, Georgina Toms, who was actually spotted in The Trafford Centre...

MFN: How did you become an Elite model?

GT: I was actually scouted in The Trafford Centre so it's nice to come back really.

MFN: Are you still living in Manchester or have you migrated to London?

GT: Nope, I'm sticking to my roots, I'm still based in Manchester and then travel around for work.

MFN: What are your best tips for aspiring models?

GT: Definitely relax. On the catwalk, make sure your shoulders are back and clear your mind. On a shoot, loosen up and relax, no one is judging you, they're all there to do their job, just get comfortable!

MFN: How do find Elite?

GT: Elite are great, they really look after us!

MFN: What have been your favourite modelling jobs so far?

GT: I get to travel all over the World, that's probably the best bit, I've been featured in overseas Vogue, Elle, Marie Claire and I also do a lot of work for Look Magazine. One of my favourite brands to work for is Warehouse though.

MFN: What has your favourite freebie from a shoot been?

GT: I don't actually get that many to be honest... Though the dress I'm wearing today was free from Warehouse, I love it!

MFN: And a final word to the new models who win EML today?

GT: Good luck! Just remember it's a job at the end of the day, so treat it like one.

After gaining an insight into the World of a model, I also managed to speak to the Head of Production at Elite, Janie Everett in a short break between castings. She seemed heavily involved for someone so senior, sorting out forms and offering great advice to the aspiring models.

MFN: What do you look for in a model?

JE: Well obviously the physical attributes come first as that's what it's all about. The girls need to be a good height, but we can't expect everyone to be size 8 and 5 foot 8... Personality is a really big thing for me, you can develop and coach a young girl  but if she doesn't have that spark of personality it's not going to work. Today is not about finding the finished product, we're looking for girls with potential to be developed.

MFN: What do you think about reality TV shows like Britain's Next Top Model? Do you think it is a good representation of the industry?

JE: Ah, I really don't like them... They are fun and reflect the important of personality really well. Though it doesn't reflect what the model agencies are actually looking for.

MFN: What inspired you to get into the modelling industry?

JE: I've always worked in different sides of fashion, this is just another aspect of fashion. My favourite part to work on is the 'New Faces' as it's so rewarding to nurture a new model, it's exciting to see how they and their career develop over time.

MFN: EML obviously works for Elite, do you think other agencies will follow your lead?

JE: I think it's unique and very inclusive as we're excited to meet anyone who thinks they have potential. Some agencies can be very exclusive and only use certain types of models. It's good to have other fun stuff going on too so that people who don't want to enter the competition can participate, like our Toni and Guy hair stylists today. It's also great for us to get out of London and find more talent, we've been up and down the UK with EML so far. Inclusive is the key word!

MFN: Who is your favourite model?

JE: Constance Jablonski, she was found through EML and has gone on to be very successful. She embodies everything this competition is about.

MFN: What tips would you give to a model going to a go see or casting call for the first time?

JE: First impressions are key, just be yourself and show lots of personality. Be well presented too to make sure you're remembered for a good reason.

MFN:  Who is your favourite designer?

JE: I love Vivienne Westwood and Alexander McQueen, the great British designers. Some British designers end up in different places but those two stuck with their British roots. I love finding great new talent, EML isn't just about models, we're also looking for photographers, stylists and more...

MFN: Anything else you'd like to add?

JE: Get involved with us! Anyone from a make up artist, photographer or anyone, just come and get involved with us. Check out our website and social networking sites for more information. We'll be in other places across the country soon.

While I surveyed the queue I noticed a few recurring trends, all chosen to enhance the models' best bits. Here's a round up of the most prevalent ones of the day...

Trend round-up for the day

- Black suede ankle boots

- Stripes

- Waistcoats

- Florals

- Black leggings

- Curly hair courtesy of Toni and Guy

- Oversized, black handbags

For more information visit the Elite Model Look website and enter for your chance to become the next big thing.

Words and additional images by Clare Potts. Images courtesy of Elite Models.

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