KEY POINTS:
It's true, it is just like America's Next Top Model. Especially those bits when Tyra Banks keeps telling the competitors they need to dress "like models", even when they're not actually being photographed.
"There's a certain expectation from clients that you will be dressed in a fashionable way,"
explains Christy Quilliam, who's been modelling for about 14 years and was arguably one of Australia's best known models before relocating to New Zealand.
Quilliam has done her fair share of runway shows, as well as modelling a million dollars worth of diamonds for de Beer's and working for top Australian designer Collette Dinnigan.
"And there's always a sort of model's uniform - at the moment, it's skinny jeans and some sort of T-shirt. Yes, people have their own style but you have to be up with what's going on otherwise the client might look down their nose at you," Quilliam says.
However, although she is still modelling regularly, these days her choice of outfit for seeing clients has changed a little - recently she's been focusing on moving more into acting and presenting work.
"Generally with acting, you're given some sort of character breakdown - that's even for television commercials - and I put quite a bit of effort into portraying that character at the audition," she explains. "You want to have on something that suits the character because it just helps you get into the right head space."
Who are your favourite designers?
At the moment it would have to be Trelise Cooper because I am a huge fan of dresses and colour.
What was the last item of clothing you bought?
A full-length boho skirt from the seventies or thereabouts.
Who inspires you?
At the moment my inspiration comes from the amazing performances of Marion Cotillard in the film La Vie en Rose, and Miranda July in her movie Me and You and Everybody We Know.
Your favourite accessory?
The pink rubber bracelet for cancer awareness. I have not taken it off since I bought it, except for work.
Best fashion bargain?
My 70s full-length chiffon dress that is layered in such a way that when it opens, it shows your legs. I paid about $20 for it in Sydney about 15 years ago.
Your favourite shop?
Any antique or second-hand clothing shop. And that goes for anywhere in the world. I'm addicted to second-hand shopping. I see one, I have to enter.
Your best beauty tip?
Use good quality natural products. Most products are full of chemicals and false promises. Basic routines with minimal layers are the best.
What can't you live without?
Trilogy face care, rose water and lip gloss.
What does the word "fashionable" mean to you?
Someone who knows their body shape and wears it like they own it. There are so many people who have no idea how to work their body type. More info about that rather than the next fad diet would be better for us all.
What's the biggest beauty mistake you have ever made?
I listened to someone early on in my career who sent me off to have about 20 different shades of blonde put in my hair. Plus a disgusting hair cut. And, voila, disaster. I left the fashion industry for summer and shaved my head.
Any style icons?
Juliette Binoche, Sophia Loren, Madonna, Sophie Marceau, Angelina Jolie, Chloe Sevigny.
The one rule you always dress by?
If it doesn't fit your body type, don't wear it. And if it's so short you can see what you had for breakfast, then give it to your teenage daughter.
Best sartorial advice?
Always love and believe in yourself. And don't be afraid to try new things.
Most cherished item?
A beautiful necklace that was given to me by [my partner] Shaun when I had our son. It's very old and belonged to Shaun's Mum.
Dress to impress whom?
Generally myself but when it comes to acting, my motivation is definitely landing that job by becoming that character.
Best city for fashion shopping?
Paris or Hong Kong.
Best trend of this season?
Colour - I just live for colour.
Best way to recycle your old clothes?
If you're able, a bit of a cut and paste can work wonders. Or, off to charity.
