Summer styles hit the catwalk at Telford fashion show
A local plus-size model and star of Gok Wan's How to Look Good Naked has been taking to the catwalk in Telford for a special fashion show.
A local plus-size model and star of Gok Wan's How to Look Good Naked has been taking to the catwalk in Telford for a special fashion show.
Nina Blakemore, who splits her time between Kemberton, near Shifnal, and Lower Penn, Wolverhampton, has been taking part in Fashion Week's Spring/Summer Style Show at Telford Shopping Centre, which ran from Friday until yesterday.
She has modelled at the show for the past five years but this year was also taking on a new role as compere.
Nina began modelling at 17 as a typical 'straight' size 10, but found the weight difficult to maintain.
And after 16 years in the industry she now works hard to promote real size women in fashion.
"When they asked me to present the show in Telford I jumped at the chance.
"Presenting has let me stay involved in the show in a new way," she said.
"I love being a plus-size model in the industry, I try to be a role model and promote a healthy image.
"If young girls see me out there it might help ease the pressure to be thin.
"Everybody's different, if you're naturally a size six or eight that's fantastic but you shouldn't force yourself.
"I still exercise every day and eat well but I don't struggle.
"Curvy girls can still be sexy."
Nina also helps advise other women on how to dress for their shape and tries to encourage stores to increase their ranges for curvy girls.
Customers at Telford Town Centre have been treated to a glimpse of this season's hottest trends from the high street shops in the centre, including items from Marks & Spencer, BHS and Republic.
