TRUE Model Lorna Litz is the 1st Afro-Taino Latinnese Curve Model to Close the show for a Project Runway Designer, during NYFW. From behind the scenes to walking the runway, Litz gives the inside scoop on what her experience was like.
TM: How did it feel to be chosen to model in the Project Runway NYFW show?
LL: To be chosen by the designer and producers of Project Runway was a true honor. Words cannot describe the feeling; it is so surreal. In the past, during my straight size modeling years, I had the opportunity to walk in Mercedes Benz fashion week, but honestly nothing can compare to making history as the first curve model to close for Project Runway.
TM: What was the audiences’ reaction like when they realized the show was featuring plus models exclusively?
LL: The audience did not realize what was happening until the 3rd model walked out (from what sources say). When I walked out I could hear people screaming and clapping. There were many smiling faces. The reaction and feedback was all positive. Tim Gunn approached me back stage, he asked my name, and said: “Very well done Lornalitz. Your walk was magnificent”. Zac Posen also said I was very beautiful and that I did a great job closing the show. They were both so very sweet. I have to admit – they both made my day!
TM: What is a typical day like behind the scenes of Project Runway? And, behind the scenes of a NYFW runway show?
LL: When I was nominated as the Designer Muse, closing the show was not the only task. I was needed on set a few times to tape fittings and hair/makeup consults. I was up early mornings, some much earlier than others, but I am not complaining. It was all well worth it. Hanging on set with one of my idols, Supermodel Heidi Klum, meeting celebrity guest judge Carrie Underwood and Marie Claire Creative director, Nina Garcia, sharing selfie’s with Zac Posen, and snapping pictures with Tim Gunn. What else can I possibly say… Amazing!
TM: What was your favorite part about participating in the Project Runway show at NYFW?
LL: This might sound cliché but my favorite part was the moment before I walk out to the runway. It was everything I’ve ever dreamed of… The very long black runway, over 10 rows right and left filled with people and all the lights and cameras at the end of the runway waiting to take my picture. Oh man, it was such an adrenaline rush. I wanted to walk over, and over, and over, again. I could totally see myself walking many more runways.
TM: What is your secret for keeping calm and exuding confidence during a high-profile show, such as Project Runway?
LL: My secret for keeping calm is breathing and shaking off the nerves. My confidence comes from within, I tell myself “You better Weerrrkkkkk this catwalk. You were born to do this, So Do It”… It totally works for me.
TM: How does it feel to make history as the 1st Afro-Tanino Latinnese Curve Model to close the show for Project Runway, during NYFW?
LL: Ahhhhh! To make history as a Curve model walking for Project Runway is epic, but to be mentioned as the 1st Afro -Taino Latinnese Curve Model puts a huge smile on my face. I feel like I am the voice for so many multi-ethic women and girls 🙂
TM: Was there anything surprising or unexpected about this experience?
LL: Yes, I was surprised on how accepting the straight sized models were of us. Especially the other girls chosen to close, who all happened to be straight sized models, were so sweet to me. They complimented my walk and would say I was “bombshell sexy.” Very uplifting!
TM: What is your favorite type of clothing to model?
LL: Everything! Put me in anything and I will Werk It Out!!!
TM: What inspired you to become a model?
LL: I don’t think it was a particular person who inspired me because since I can remember, as young as 5 years old I loved taking pictures and playing dress up. I think it’s always been in me. It’s my calling 🙂
Yours TRUE-ly
