The search for Derby's Face of Fashion is underway with the launch of Model Search by fashion students at the University of Derby. The aim is to find new models for their prestigious end-of-year catwalk show in May when they showcase their very best, exciting, new designs. And as new models and potential faces of the future are searched out, one lucky applicant will win a professional photo-shoot and have the chance to model at the London Graduate Fashion Week. The latest styles conjured up by the students vary from the most sparing of beach wear to the most elaborate of formal gowns; from the most traditional of couture to the boldest of experimental costume. Model search organiser Sarah Simpson explains: "It's really a chance for would-be models to let us know they are out there and we want to hear from anyone who thinks they have the potential and the confidence to stroll on the catwalk. "You don't have to be a Kate Moss to apply and quite often people who regard themselves as 'ordinary' suit the clothes just as well. Come along and have some fun!" The search was launched at the university's Atrium with wannabe models of the future keen to find out more about the event.  | | Nicola hopes to be a Face of Fashion |
Among the hopefuls was Nicola White, a student from South East Derbyshire College in Ilkeston. She said her interest in modelling started when she was at Clothes Show Live a couple of years ago: "I was walking around when someone from a model agency walked up to me and asked if I'd ever considered modelling as a career. I told them I might be interested and had a chat with them. "I never heard any more from them but it really gave me the confidence to go in for competitions like this." Nicola had her first taste of the catwalk last year when she modelled a garment for the University of Derby fashion show. She said: "I loved it! It was a great first experience for me. I love make-up, clothes, shoes... everything. I also really enjoyed the attention - having my hair done and my make-up sorted was great. "But I think that to be a model you've really got to be hard-working, focused and patient. We did three shows last year and there was a lot of waiting around. It was a long day and we had to have our make-up re-done for each show."  | | Get to wear some of the latest designs! |
But Nicola was not put off and has come back for a second bite of the cherry this year. (You can use the 'in pictures' link below to see her progress.) There's still time for hopeful models to apply for Face of Fashion. Applicants should be aged between 15 and 24 years and should be a minimum height of 5'8" (women) or 6 ft (men). Application forms are available from www.derby.ac.uk/faceoffashion. | 
