A national model search which attracted over three thousand applicants on social media has revealed its winner in the shape of 25-year-old Elena Forrest.
The Londoner beat off stiff competition to win a year’s contract with Milk Model Management who partnered with size-inclusive fashion brand, Simply Be, on it’s The New Icon’s Model Search to find a new model, who women can identify with on a deeper level.
The search was prompted by a study for the brand which revealed that two thirds (66%) of women said they can’t relate to established supermodels and famous faces currently used by fashion brands.
When asked to define an ‘icon’ almost half (46%) of women questioned said they considered it to be someone who is confident in their own skin, while a fifth (21%) said an icon is someone who is outspoken about what they believe in.
Elena was one of 17 girls, who after weeks of deliberation were chosen to attend a casting day in London. The finalists were put through their paces by a judging panel which included Fashion News Editor, Billie Bhatia; Founder of Milk Management, Anna Shillinglaw; Model, Felicity Hayward and Isla Kirby, Head of Brand at Simply Be.
Elena said “I can’t believe I’ve won – it doesn’t feel real! Growing up I always stood out for what felt like the wrong reasons and I never had anyone of my shape to look up to.
“Every woman should feel confident to express who they really are, and I hope this puts me in a position to be a positive role model to younger girls when it comes to their shape, something which I never had.”
Isla Kirby from Simply Be said: “Our own insight revealed that women are calling out for a new kind of fashion icon while also wanting to see models they can relate to on a deeper level; rather than just superficially.
“We wanted to find someone bold, confident and not afraid to push the boundaries and in Elena I am confident we have done just that.”
Model Felicity Hayward, who was one of the judges, added: “It was a privilege to be part of this competition and to meet all of the incredible women who made the shortlist. There were so many wonderful contestants which made choosing one winner a really tough job, but Elena really stood out to us all.”
As well as the winning a year’s modelling contract with Milk Management, Elena will also have the chance to take part in Simply Be’s Summer 2020 advertising campaign.
See all the BTS action from the casting event: https://www.instagram.com/p/B74EFybgrcj/
For more information on Simply Be’s The New Icons Model Search, visit https://www.simplybe.co.uk/blog/story/the-modern-day-female-icon.
