FASHFEST 2017 is on the hunt for models of all ages, personality types and sizes to bring designer fashion to life at the red-carpet event on 28 to 30 September.

Model crowds at FASHFEST 2016 model casting – photo by cumminsphoto.com.au

The annual model casting is being held Sunday 4 June at the National Convention Centre Canberra and only time will tell if FASHFEST smashes its 2016 record, with more 550 models registering to strut their stuff. While it’s serious business, it’s also a fun day, packed with wannabe models meeting new friends, snapping selfies, getting measured up, and—with butterflies in their tummies—walking the makeshift catwalk, alone and in pairs.

Walking the walk at FASHFEST 2016 Model Casting – photo by cumminsphoto.com

“We look for different ages, body profiles and nationalities since our designers are so diverse,” says Andrea Hutchinson, from HAUS Models and one of the four judges on this year’s panel. “Depending on the final cut of designers, we might need mature models, athletic models, models with a sophisticated look or models from various ethnic backgrounds. And we need a mix of male and female.”

The casting is ‘open’ which means models don’t have to belong to an agency. Indeed, since FASHFEST is big on training, applicants don’t need previous modelling experience. If they have what it takes, they’ll cross the line and get to be in Canberra’s red-carpet fashion event. The only restriction is that models must be 16 years of age by the time FASHFEST rolls out that red carpet.

FASHFEST 2017 Model Casting Pane l-r: Victoria from Victoria’s Models, Tina from Devojka Models, and Andrea from HAUS Models

Joining Andrea is Victoria Schnabl, Victoria’s Models, and Tina Nikolovski, Devojka Models, meaning that all three of Canberra’s top modelling agencies are represented on the judging panel. And for a different perspective, FASHFEST’s Director of Photography, Leighton Hutchinson, will also judge.

FASHFEST 2016 Model Casting – photo by Sparkling Weddings

The models will walk to music organised by FASHFEST’s official music director, Ashley Feraude. The music creates a unique vibe for the day and helps keep nerves calm.

If you want to give it a go, register on www.fashfest.com.au.The form only takes a minute or two to complete and registration closes late on 3 June.

In pairs at FASHFEST 2016 Model Casting – photo by cumminsphoto.com.au