Not-So-Supermodels

The Perfectionist

     Karlie Russet stood in front of her bathroom mirror, frustrated. She took a deep breath, picked up the eyeliner, and tried once again for a perfect wing. Trying as best she could to keep her hand from trembling, she slid the black pen across her lashline. So far, so good. Holding her breathe, she swooped it out and up, hoping, hoping. Successfully having done a flawless wing, Karlie exhaled and set down the eyeliner.

    Today would be the day that would make her or break her, to be cliché. They were to arrive once again at the Von Rellonsieur building precisely st 10:45 AM. No sooner, no later. At the moment, it was 10:00 AM and Karlie was already having experiencing anxiety, worrying about when to leave and what to eat and what to wear. She had decided on a pastel blue crop top with a high-waisted, flowing white Gucci skirt. Her dark, beautiful hair was mostly down and wavy, but the top section was braided neatly around my head into a delicate crown. She wore a simple, leather choker that held a moon charm on it, and had on simple black flats.

Hopefully she's into this style, Karlie thought (referring to Ms. Von Rellonsieur). For a moment she considered adding a bracelet, but decided against it, as it may be too much jewelry. She pinned up the last few stray hairs and applied a small amount of hair spray, just to be very sure they wouldn't come unstuck. Called out for baby hairs would not be her death of choice.

And then, suddenly, the time was 10:20 AM, and Karlie was actually feeling more calm than she had before. She knew her outfit was gorgeous, and her hair was looking even more shiny and perfect than normal. Taking one long look in the mirror before heading out, she smiled and nodded, satisfied that she looked okay. She grabbed the keys to her apartment, grabbed her purse, and waltzed out the door, feeling confident and pleased.

Outside the building, the driver was waiting. He nodded and said quietly "Ms. Russet?" She nodded quickly, and stepped inside the limo, blushing as people on the street stared. All the contestants were picked up by limo at 10:25. If they were not there by 10:26, the limo would leave without hesitation. This had been very clearly conveyed by Ms. Von Rellonsieur. On time, or not there. Late was not an option.

The driver had walked around the car and got into the front seat, and they began to drive. As the hum of the engine soothed her beating heart, Karlie took deep breaths, checking her watch every few minutes, praying they would get there on time. After about 18 minutes, they arrived. The time was 10:43. The driver briskly opened the door for her, and she stepped out and rushed up the steps, pulling the massive french doors open.

At exactly 10:45 AM, Karlie Russet and 9 other contestants stood in front of Krista Von Rellonsieur and 3 other unknown people. The first introduced herself as Amanda Green in a smooth french accent. "I am the designer for this entire competition. Basically, I will design an outfit for each of you, based on what I can see of your style and personality. The better we get to know each other, the better I can design your outfit, d'accord?" Everyone nodded and murmured in assent.

The next woman stepped forward. "My name is Olivia Prince, but you will call me Liv. I am the head photographer for this event. As you walk down the runway, my team and I will be capturing your most handsome or gorgeous moments." Another round of agreement from everyone. Karlie had a question. She tentatively raised her hand, unsure if this was allowed. Luckily, Liv looked over at her and smiled. "Yes?" Blushing ruinously, she cleared her throat and asked, "Is the runway the only time you'll be taking pictures of us?" Liv nodded. "A good question. Yes, our team doesn't get paid enough to take pictures of you all the time, so it will only be on the runway." Laughter spattered through the room.

The last woman in the line laughed, and then stepped forward. "Hello, I'm Emily, and I'm the head makeup artist for you. Before the shows, we will be making sure you look absolutely perfect. We are able to cut hair, do makeup, and dye hair if need be. Basically, any cosmetic needs you will come to us for." Not waiting for a response, she stepped back. Krista stepped forward and smiled broadly at her contestants, and spoke softly, but clearly. "Follow Amanda. She will show you your outfits for the first round."