Dark and Lovely’s Model Search Hits Chicago: Headlined by LisaRaye McCoy

LisaRaye McCoy

SoftSheen-Carson, in partnership with Essence magazine, hosted Dark and Lovely’s model search for the next star of it’s national Dark and Lovely advertising campaign at The Wit hotel in Chicago on Saturday, June 12. More than 100 aspiring models and women interested in top-notch grooming, attended a panel discussion led by actress LisaRaye McCoy, celebrity stylist Carlton Jones, celebrity hairstylist Eric Bland, and Essence contributing editor Tasha Turner. The illustrious and impecably groomed panel addressed a variety of beauty and fashion issues from appropriate attire to spritual well being and foundation fundamentals ranging from intimate apparel to self-esteem.


Contestants for the Dark and Lovely? Show It Off! competition were professionally photographed on site and presented to the panelists for more detailed evaluation of their sense of style and personal potential in their quest to identify that special diamond in the rough.


Rolling out staff conducted an exit survey with model participants and queried them about their their personal regimens for preparing for the Dark mand Lovely competition the ultimate chance to win the grand prize of a New York City photo shoot, a hair makeover by SoftSheen-Carson artistic director and celebrity hairstylist Johhny Wright, as well as a $5000 shopping spree with internationally renowned stylist Carlton Jones. So ladies, if you think you’ve got the look and dare to bring it to the national stage visit www.essence.com/darkandlovely for contest rules and upcoming locations, dates and times. roz edward

Dark and Lovely model Nina TurnageNina Turnage, model contestant


What did you do to ready yourself for the model search?

Nothing. I heard about this event last night and actually I came here hoping that [the judges] would appreciate my naturalness. I had a lot going on today … but I didn’t want to miss it, so I came impromptu.

What are the attributes that you want the judges and men in general to take note of?

That I am educated and down to earth. I am also hardworking and humble and I want to live the most enjoyable life with the most memorable and pleasurable experiences that I can.

Dark and Lovely Model Natalie King

Natalie King, model contestant

What did you do to ready yourself for the model search?

I knew walking in here I had as good a chance as anyone to win this, but of course you can be your own worst critic. It’s like a broken record — but it’s true — so I had to calm myself down and try to be more positive.

What are the attributes that you want the judges and men in general to take note of?

These are visual people and I want them to notice of how I carry myself how I dress myself and how I am on the inside, based on how I chose to represent myself that day. That’s first and foremost. And for a man, I definitely want him to him to key in on my personality and my intelligence. I am a big fan of intelligence.

The national Dark and Lovely? Show It Off! contest will run through July 6, with the next scheduled tour stop In Atlanta on a date to be announced. Stay tuned to rollingout.com for contest dates and details.


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