The 2005 MORE 40+ Model Search: A Backstage Pass

A record 19,142 women entered MORE’s sixth annual Model Search — all over 4O, and all aspiring to a new modeling career. Our challenge was editing this fabulous group from across the country down to just 10 finalists. Working with Wilhelmina Models, we spent days poring over snapshots and entry forms. We were fascinated by the diversity of lifestyles and looks, and downright awed by the confidence exuded by every single entrant.

The 10 women who made the final cut had never met before the day of our photo shoot. But within minutes of their arrival, they were trading cell phone numbers and encouragement with the ease and self-assurance that only come with maturity. No envy, no rivalry. The room sparkled with energy; the vibe was all goodwill and “Good luck!”

Photos by Thomas Kletecka and Ronnie Andren

Everyone’s at the studio, wolfing down egg-and-cheese burritos. Who says models don’t eat? Hairstylist Mitch Barry and his team arm themselves with curling irons and blow-dryers.

Makeup artists Bobbi Brown and crew wield concealers and foundation. And yes, it does take this much makeup to look natural in front of the camera!

The women bond as they wait their turn in makeup or the fitting room. Stylist Elisa Goodkind takes care of who wears what.

TV cameras prowl backstage, recording every step of the preparation. Everyone out of the dressing room except stylists!

In jeans for the first group shot. Everybody on set. Photographer Antoine Verglas directs.

An energy dip — carbo-loading as the models scarf down penne and hummus before the glam shot.

NOON: The gala dresses perk everyone up fast! The models get ready for the glam shot.

“Eyes to me!” cries Verglas. The group poses like pros, giving the camera attitude.

Back in their own little black dresses for the judging. Each faces the judges alone. These two hours are the hardest part of the day.

To Cipriani on East 42nd Street for the party and show. Rehearsal first, with a runway walking class from Douglas of Ground Crew.

Celebs and guests arrive. The mood is as bubbly as the champagne.

Actress Mary Steenburgen, the emcee, opens the show. Paparazzi jam the runway and the crowd goes wild as the 10 finalists sashay.

Winners are announced — cheering, flashing cameras, general pandemonium. With this much energy, it’s going to be a late night — and an early morning for the winners, who have to be up for TV appearances.

1st Runner-Up: Angela Paul

2nd Runner-Up: Cynthia Gouw

Grand-Prize Winner: Thea Kelly

Angela wins a $10,000 Wilhelmina Modeling contract.

Her Role Models: “I admire Annette Bening, Jessica Lange, and Diane Keaton — they have all resisted bowing down to Hollywood’s perception of beauty.”

Her P.O.V.: “Life is about taking chances. People thought I was making a mistake when I married my husband; I didn’t listen to them and we’ve been together 25 years! Part of this contest is having my age printed in black and white, and I’m proud to do it. I would never trade the confidence and poise I have now for the insecurities of my youth.”

Who Knew? “I speak Japanese very well. I taught myself to read and write the language in my 20s, when I lived in Japan for eight years.”

On Winning: “To be honest, I felt like I had a good shot. I loved opening the MORE runway show in that great yellow Alberta Ferretti dress — light and giddy.”

Cynthia wins a $5,000 Wilhelmina Modeling contract.

Her Role Model: “Sophia Loren, who just looks better each year.”

Her P.O.V.: “Aging encourages intellectual curiosity. Once you figure out your career and your relationship, you’re free to focus on your passions. My Chinese culture, after all, reveres age — the reverse of Western ideology (at least ’til now)!”

Who Knew? “I was happily single for 41 years. Marrying late was my smartest move. I had time to grow and develop into a person first. I still love to read in bed eating crackers and nuts — my husband’s always brushing crumbs out of the sheets with a tolerant, amused smile.”

On Winning: “I didn’t think I had a shot because I looked at everyone’s bio on the Web site — they were all so beautiful. I decided to be Zen about it, have a good time, and make memories. When I heard my name called, I cried.”

Thea wins a $15,000 Wilhelmina Modeling contract.

Her Role Model: “Growing up, I admired Beverly Johnson and Vanessa Williams, who had her kids around the same time I did. Now I’m in the same magazine as she is!”

Her P.O.V.: “I was the first member of my family to go to college. We didn’t have much money, so I viewed education as my way out. Now I do a lot of charity work for the YWCA, obtaining scholarships for underprivileged women, and I’m on the board of the Crooked Creek Multi-Service Center, which assists low-income families.”

Who Knew? “My love of desserts inspired my daughter and me to take a cake decorating class together, though she’s better at it than I am. I never pass up a chance to eat a cream torte or a slice of cake, but I have a belly ring to remind me not to overdo it.”

On Winning: "I never thought I’d win this. I kept waiting for this “Thea” person to walk out on stage when my name was called — I didn’t realize it was me! I’m honored to be part of a magazine that is challenging stereotypes about women and aging."

Originally published in MORE magazine, November 2005.