swim

[Images via DKC Public Relations, Marketing, Government Affairs]

Ten finalists strutted down the runway at Macy’s Herald Square at the Wilhelmina 40+ Model Search for a chance to win a contract with Wilhelmina Model Agency, a trip to New York City, a makeover with Randall Christensen (Dancing with the Stars costume designer), a $1,000 Macy’s gift card, $1,000 worth of cosmetics from Estée Lauder, and a $1,000 wardrobe from Miraclesuit. This particular model search, hosted by the charmingly-hilarious celeb stylist and TV personality Robert Verdi, focused on finding the next top model over the age of 40. Women ranging from 40 to 54 years old took the runway by storm in beautiful swimwear by Miraclesuit and designs by Christensen. The models projected confidence, class, and style, which could inspire any individual at any age to take the challenge and pursue a dream. This truly proves that age is just a number and fashion is beautiful on everyone

[Winner, Jaqueline Depaul]

I agreed with Verdi when he openly described winner, Jaqueline Depaul, 41, from California, as a Countess [from the Real Housewives of New York] look-alike. Depaul looked like a modeling natural and had a fabulous amount of fun and flirty sophistication to her. Diana Capozzi, 40, from Massachusetts was first runner-up and Kimberly Clark, 40, from Illinois, was second-runner up.

[Judges, Roshumba Williams (far left) and Randall Christensen (far right) with the winner and runner-ups]