Tyra Banks has worked the runway in some of the world’s most fabulous fashion, but deep down inside, she says she’s actually not a haute couture girl. The model-turned-mogul — and current business student — tells New York that all the years spent doing fittings for designer gowns actually made her a little, well, nervous. “I always still felt intimidated,” she tells the magazine. “Karl Lagerfeld is dressing me, Yves Saint Laurent is like smoothing my hem or something, and I felt like a little teenage girl and that these amazing designers were around me and that they were like these Greek gods. So I knew it wasn’t my truth. Although I was, like, flattered and like, ‘Oh, this is amazing!’” But the America’s Next Top Model host has still managed to start a few trends; for instance, the meat dress phenomenon, which happened in an ANTM challenge months before Lady Gaga wore her version to the Video Music Awards. “You know I never saw it, I just read about it,” Banks explains, saying she never thought Gaga stole the idea from the show. “Lady Gaga is such an artist that I doubt that she was looking at Top Model or her stylist was looking at Top Model and saying, ‘We should do it.’ I think they just did it and we just happened to do it first.” For more with Banks, check out nymag.com. –Kim Peiffer

VOTE ON STAR STYLE IN ‘LAST NIGHT’S LOOK: HIT OR MISS?’

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Tyra Banks has never been shy about flaunting her curves–and now one of her protégés is following suit. Whitney Thompson, America’s Next Top Model‘s first-ever plus-sized winner, is boldly baring it all to promote Love Your Body Day, which will take place in West Hollywood on October 23. Whitney (left) is joined in the daring photo by Chenese Lewis, the event’s creator and President of the Hollywood Chapter of the National Organization for Women (NOW). Learn more about NOW Hollywood’s curve celebration and see more shots from the campaign at loveyourbodyday.com Tell us: What do you think about Whitney’s campaign shots? –Katherine Kluznik Rentmeester

CLICK HERE TO GET A SNEAK PEEK OF THE NEW SEASON OF AMERICA’S NEXT TOP MODEL

When top models like Coco Rocha and Jessica White aren’t working the runway during Fashion Week, they’ll be hitting the streets of New York City to raise awareness for Fashion Targets Breast Cancer, the Council of Fashion Designers of America’s (CFDA) charitable organization. Donning limited-edition Nine West boots equipped with pocket pedometers, participating models’ every step will be tracked for the brand’s Runway Relief Program, an initiative that will donate a pre-determined monetary amount to the cause, based on how many steps the models take. To kick things off, Nigel Barker will photograph 40 models rocking the new boots in an iconic N.Y.C. location on August 31. And unlike other Fashion Week events, you don’t need a ticket to get access! The shoot will be streamed live on modelinia.com and Nine West’s Facebook page, where the boots will also be available for purchase for $199. In this exclusive video, Nigel Barker and his top models chat about the charity and give PEOPLE.com a sneak peek at the limited-edition boots.–Jessie Goldberg

Today, Tyra Banks announced her newest challenge to the modeling market: her first-ever plus-sized modeling competition for teens. Dubbed Tyra’s Fiercely Real Teen Model Search, the contest will hunt for curvy catwalk contenders aged 13-19 and between 5′ 9″ and 6′ 1″. So why tackle this ignored segment of the fashion market now? “I’ve always felt it was my mission to expand the narrow perceptions of beauty; through America’s Next Top Model, True Beauty and The Tyra Show I challenge industry and universal standards by featuring and celebrating non-traditional beauty, and stressing that true beauty is both inside and out,” she explains of the decision. “Plus-sized tends to have a negative connotation and I want young girls to realize that what’s considered plus-sized is the average American woman. That woman is healthy, fit and beautiful. Adolescence is such an impressionable time in a young woman’s life, and I hope this contest helps teen girls discover their own beauty from the inside out.” Think you might have what it takes to conquer the catwalk and earn a one-year contract with Wilhelmina, magazine cover and more? Click over to tyrashow.warnerbros.com to learn how to enter — and learn more from the supermodel herself on how to pose for your audition only at tyra.com!

Michael Loccisano/FilmMagic

After seeing The Tyra Banks Show and a segment on the “corset jean,” America’s Next Top Model Jaslene Gonzalez had to follow her mentor’s lead and get a few pairs of her own. The ANTM Cycle 8 winner headed to LF boutique on 5th Avenue in New York and picked up two pairs of Era of Chaos corset denim jeans, along with a metallic blouse and metallic Jacket by Please. Lucky for Jaslene, she had the perfect place to break in her trendy new jeans — the release party for Jennifer Lopez’s CD Brave at N.Y.C. hotspot Buddakan. Tell us: Would you wear corset jeans like Jaslene’s?

Model and America’s Next Top Model alum (cycle 6) Joanie Dodds gives her take on the season finale and its winner. (Psssst: It’s Caridee.)

This season has been great. Not as fabulous as my season last year, ha ha… but very exciting. Just thinking back through everything they have done – Spain, imitation sky diving, fabulous challenges, circus shoots, scary faces, crazy bitches, divas, Dennis Quaid and Fabio! Ew… Fabio. The top three have been decided! CariDee, Melrose and Eugena. These girls are wonderful, with great photos and fabulous attitudes, good or not.

The final three go on to shoot the ever-famous CoverGirl commercial and photoshoot for their Outlast Double Lip Shine. The girls all do relatively well. Caridee let that attitude shine! Melrose is such a perfectionist, and never lets it show that she is not a natural. After deliberating on both the commercials and shoots, Eugena was sent home for her uncertainty in the competition.

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Photo: De Yonker/The CW; (inset) Jim De Yonker/UPN/Landov

Down to the final two, and it’s the Battle of the Blondes. I’m personally feeling this, because I’m blonde and I wanted to win to represent all of us! Melrose and CariDee go to a shoot for Seventeen Magazine without Jay Manuel to direct. Watching them work in a real editorial shoot was great. I can’t wait to see the pictures!

The final runway show was unbelievable – so theatrical with the ghostly bride theme and the staredown moment. I haven’t really seen these girls walk that much, were they even going to be good?? I love the ghostly bride thing, but I think I’m going to have nightmares. It reminded me too much of Interview with a Vampire. CariDee wasn’t that great! She looked like she was just strolling down the street! Work it girl! I thought Melrose was actually better on the runway.

Jay Manuel was on panel for the final judging, and even though this never happens, I thought it was a great idea. The comparison of the photos was tough to watch. These girls were so hard to put up against each other because they both had so many strong points. But the answer seemed so obvious. Remember, ANTM has to be a role model, as well as a great photo and runway model. Who wants to work with a perfectionist or a brat?

And the winner is……….. Caridee!! I’m so happy for her! Finally a blonde wins the competition, that girl better work it for all of us!

After several tough months and so many grueling challenges, America’s Next Top Model is down to its final three contestants: Caridee, Eugena, and Melrose, and the grand finale is airing tonight on the the CW. Sure, we haven’t seen their final challenge yet and that dramatic walk-off, but we already have our favorites. Do you love bad girl Melrose or uber-blonde Caridee or California-girl Eugena? So, tell us: who’s gonna win — and who do you want to win — America’s Next Top Model?

Check out our exclusive blog from Joanie of ANTM Cycle Six. After the show, come back here and tell us what you think of the winner!

Photo: De Yonker/The CW(3)

Model and America’s Next Top Model alum (cycle 6) Joanie Dodds gives a weekly insider’s view on the hit show.

Not a very eventful episode — or at least not as eventful as I hoped it would be. The episode kicked off with the girls pairing off with a male dancer to learn flamenco, which was super-sexy and fun. Then they had to actually perform their new steps in front of an audience, which definitely scared Amanda. Melrose, you evil prude, I love you in your pics, but I hate watching you on TV! I want you to just BE NICE! CariDee was a pretty good dancer, but Eugena rocked out in the dancing and won the challenge.

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Photo:The CW; (inset) Jim De Yonker/UPN/Landov

Dancing can be tough, but getting in an icy pool and pairing up for the photo shoot? Shouldn’t this competition be about their individuality at this point? They need to stand alone. Shine! My cycle, we went to Phuket and shot hanging above water by ourselves. They really needed more of a modeling challenge, not a physical endurance test. Being in such cold water is a dangerous risk, and it’s even less fun to shoot with another girl.

Caridee pulled off amazing shots in the water, but it was freaking cold. I really felt her pain when she developed hypothermia from the cold water, and it must have been so difficult to try and push yourself to your physical limit and still know when to pull out. She didn’t want them to think she was being difficult or not trying, but at the same time they told her that she needs to be honest with them about her body — tough choice!!

When Michelle went home last week, the power between the twins was gone and Amanda got weaker left on her own this episode. She said she wanted to win for her sister, but shouldn’t she want to win for herself? I loved every picture she took throughout the entire show. Twiggy was right, though — that girl had no coordination. Let’s face it, sometimes you really need some coordination in modeling. I’m sure her awkward style and high fashion looks won’t give her any problems in the future with finding work, so Best of Luck to Amanda! She’s a sweetheart!

The Season Finale is next!!?? WOW! Did you happen to see the Cave-like runway? Can’t wait to see who will come out on top!

Model and America’s Next Top Model alum (cycle 6) Joanie Dodds gives a weekly insider’s view on the hit show.

This was the episode of everyone crying! It goes to show you how hard this competition is and how it can get to you on the inside. The episode kicked off with Tyra talking to the remaining five about harsh realities. Come on, we all know she really wants to see who is weak and what she can do to push all of their buttons. Not that there isn’t truth in it, though. Harsh criticisms are part of the game and of the industry, and you have to build that shell to make it far. Maybe Tyra does really want them to become strong.

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Photo:Jim De Yonker/The CW; (inset) Jim De Yonker/UPN/Landov

I’m still not seeing a sharp winner. I loved Jaeda, and now that she is gone, my favorites have dwindled a little. Melrose is consistent and good at it, Caridee is beautiful and full of spunk, and the twins are so editorial and natural. I’m a strong supporter of the girls who are strong, understand the competition and respect it. Eugena is probably the best girl for that role as a Top Model at this point. She is growing and becoming a winner in my eyes.

Still in Spain, the girls were sent to meet with Pancho Saula, the director of Elite Barcelona, who organized 10 “Go Sees.” During the Go Sees, the girls did okay, but 10 in four hours? Wow, I thought riding in a Tuk Tuk in Thailand was going to be tough, and I only had to go to five! The girls were rated on their appearance, personality, book, and walk. And Amanda can’t walk to save her life. Melrose won, and chose Caridee to have a nice dinner with her as her prize.

The photo shoot was a bunch of bull! Literally!! I couldn’t believe it! The girls were sent into one of the last active bull-fighting arenas in Spain to do a photo shoot with a live bull. No rodeo clowns or anything. With the always sexy, always intimidating Nigel Barker behind the camera, the girls either pass or fail. He is so tough to shoot with, believe me, I was there once.

At elimination the girls were asked who had the most and least potential. Apparently, Michelle just didn’t want to be there, so she was sent home. Its down to the top four…but who will pull through?

Model and America’s Next Top Model alum (cycle 6) Joanie Dodds gives a weekly insider’s view on the hit show.

The episode kicked off with the girls taking an acting class with coach Tasha Smith in L.A. to learn to let out all of their emotions. My personal opinion is that Melrose is crazy, but she’s a damn good model. And I am so impressed at how Caridee really shows her honesty and passion for the competition, as well as being brave enough to reveal her secret about not wanting to live at one point in her life. Click through to the next page to read the rest of Joanie’s Take on this episode.

To read more of Joanie’s Takes on “America’s Next Top Model”, click here

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Photo:Bryan Lynn & Denise Crew/The CW; (inset) Jim De Yonker/UPN/Landov

After the lessons, the girls had to act in silent films — and they did a great job! I can’t believe they had to munch down on lemons and drink prune juice! Did you see Michelle puke it back up? Priceless! And the winner is. . .Caridee! She found out she won while watching the film (the amazing price was winning a guest spot on One Tree Hill). The girls also found out they were going to Spain while watching the film too! So ingenious! I was so stoked for them!

Once in Spain, the girls partner up with male models to film a Secret commercial in completely in the Spanish dialect Catalan, but that wasn’t the biggest problem. Turns out that Jaeda’s man doesn’t like Black girls???!! Smack that boy up! The girl is fine as hell!! He’s totally missing out! Jaeda wasn’t able to control her emotions during her commercial and broke down. Surprisingly after her previous win, Caridee wasn’t that great either. Eugena shined, as well as the twins.

During the elimination, the girls finally confront Melrose on trying to make them look bad. I’ve been waiting for them to say something to her like that for weeks!! Thank you girls!! But, Jaeda was sent home. She really has had nine lives, as Tyra said. I was sad to see her leave. She was so beautiful; she just couldn’t pull it together. Good luck to you Jaeda, you’re so amazing!

Until next time…

Model and America’s Next Top Model alum (cycle 6) Joanie Dodds gives a weekly insider’s view on the hit show.
The episode kicked off with the girls learning action modeling from Gabrielle Reece, an amazing model and athlete — not to mention she is married to amazing surfer Laird Hamilton! Action modeling is something I think every model should work on — challenging but important. I’ve done several shoots involving some serious action, including underwater, jumping and playing tennis!

The challenge the next day was to model next to Nascar driver Stanton Barrett — as his angry girlfriend! GO CARIDEE! Amanda rocked as well, and Michelle won! As usual, there was a twist. Even though Michelle won the challenge, she had to then compete in a shopping spree against three other girls. Why did Melrose get all the clothes!? That really ticked me off, and I hope she at least shared with the other girls, especially Michelle!! But we know she probably didn’t. Click through to the next page to read the rest of Joanie’s Take on this episode.

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Photo: Patrik Giardino/The CW; (inset) Jim De Yonker/UPN/
Landov

The girls finally got their first Cover Girl assignment, and the photo shoot was crazy! They were airborn in a sky-diving facility. How jealous were you watching this show!? I would have loved to get into that air tank and rock out! I would have probably thrown up on the instructors, but still, it would have been a great challenge.

I died laughing during the next judging challenge, where they randomly chose a verb and an adverb for the girls to act out. Hide Dizzily? Brilliant!! I couldn’t stop laughing. Caridee was once again great! You really got to see the girls’ personalities. I still can’t deal with Melrose’s attitude, but she is so driven to be in the competition, which you have to respect.

This episode turned into a sad day for me, because I had to watch one of my favorite girls just crumble under the pressure. This is a tough show to be on, people. No matter how strong you are, it can really get to you, especially if you have the wrong attitude. And Anchal had a bad attitude about being on the show, partly because of her weight. It’s a tough subject for a lot of women, and living in a house full of skinny skinny girls couldn’t have been easy for her. Anchal learned some great life lessons, and I’m glad she took the advice of the judges to heart. You grow and learn so much by being on this show.

Next week they find out where they are traveling overseas!! YIPPEE!! Looks Sexy! Till then. . .

Model and America’s Next Top Model alum (cycle 6) Joanie Dodds gives a weekly insider’s view on the hit show.

This episode was all about being sexy (not sleazy). I loved it! It kicked off with Tyra herself photographing the girls. It was all about sexy with a side of scary. The girls wear these great opaque colored contacts and have crazy makeup and hair — all very vampire. It reminds me a lot of our “crying” photo shoot last season. I loved CariDee!! She gets so into her roles. Bravo!

Then it’s time to bring in the fabulous Dita Von Teese (bet her husband Marilyn Manson would have loved the earlier shoot) to teach them to be sexy with props and almost strip! Anchal is sexy and beautiful- definitely my pick. Click through to the next page to read the rest of Joanie’s Take on this episode.

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Photo: Randee St. Nicholas/The CW; (inset) Jim De Yonker/UPN/Landov

Afterwards, the girls meet up with Cathy Gould from Elite Model Management. Talk about making a person nervous! This is the woman who will be giving the winner her contract! And what do they have to do to wow her? Put their lessons from Dita to the test and do a runway show with serving pieces on the very table that Gould is dining on! CRAZY!! Melrose wins the challenge. I’m so over her, although she did do well. (Am I just jealous because I only ever won one challenge?)

The next part of the challenge made walking down the dining table look like a cake walk. A sexy photo-shoot with — wait for it — Fabio! I see the point, since he’s been on a million romance novel covers, but did you know he is almost 50 years-old? No wonder some of the girls felt uncomfortable. He’s old enough to be their dad!

At deliberation, I must say this is the first time in a long time that I agreed with everything the judges had to say about the girls. The judgments were fair and very true. I was so sad to see Brooke go — especially since she was there being eliminated instead of attending her high school graduation that night! She graduated Magna Cum Laude in my book. And onto next week. . .

Model and America’s Next Top Model alum (cycle 6) Joanie Dodds gives a weekly insider’s view on the hit show.

What a great episode!! I haven’t laughed so hard in a long time. Janice Dickinson, Michelle’s coming “out,” and a celebrity couple photo shoot?! Brilliant.

In the first challenge, the girls had to be entertainment reporters at a hot event, and were coached by Entertainment Tonight correspondent Mark Steines. The next night, the girls hit the red carpet where they met their interview subject, former ANTM judge Janice Dickinson. Not shying away from the hard questions, Brooke asked Janice why she is so mean. Brooke has what it takes personality-wise and is going to do so well in the Cover Girl commercials (I’m hoping for one soon). Even though I would love to see Melrose take a hike (are you as annoyed by her as me?), she wins the challenge. Click through to the next page to read the rest of Joanie’s Take on this episode.

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Photo: Matthew Jordan Smith/The CW; Jim De Yonker/UPN/Landov

After the ET-challenge, Tyra does a one-on-one with the girls. Amanda, one of the twins, talked about her sister’s announcement earlier in the show that she might be gay or bi-sexual. I loved her sweetness about her sister coming out. They are lucky to have each other for strength in this competition. And AJ deals with her shyness, which really held her back during the red-carpet reporting.

Next came the second challenge of the episode: The girls had to channel both halves of famous pairs in two separate photo shoots. I couldn’t believe the celebrity matches they gave the girls to copy — too funny! Amanda’s Ellen Degeneres/Portia de Rossi photo (left) and Brooke’s turn as Kevin Federline were my two favorites. After this episode, I have to say that my new front runner is CariDee. She rocked as Angelina Jolie.

I was totally shocked to see AJ go! She was one of my personal top four! I don’t understand why the judges make their calls. But we don’t get to see everything that goes on, only what they can edit into one hour. So I will just have to assume that maybe AJ was slipping. Down to eight girls. . . .

Model and America’s Next Top Model alum (cycle 6) Joanie Dodds gives a weekly insider’s view on the hit show.

This episode was all about high fashion editorials and editorial posing. Sometimes you have to work it whether you or your outfit look ugly. The challenge kicked off with the girls meeting with model Stacey Mackenzie and a super rad contortionist! I wasn’t exactly expecting the girls to have to learn to put their legs behind their heads, but hey, you never know what’s brewing in the brain of Tyra Banks. I love Anchal — super flexible, who knew? — every week. I also love how she eats like a horse. Real models eat, so you go, girl! But knowing how my own self-confidence issues held me back in during the show, I think it’s a shame that she has them too. I’ll tell you one thing — no one can win if they don’t become a strong and confident presence in front of the judges, Anchal included. Click through to the next page to read the rest of Joanie’s Take on this episode.

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Photo: Mike Rosenthal/The CW

But you know it’s not all about what happens on the runway — there always has to be some behind-the-scenes drama. I’m still so glad to see Monique is gone! But now it seems Melrose has taken over as the token brat of the house. She’s always complaining and just talking too much in general. Give it a rest! And when all the girls got to sit down to dinner with legendary 60′s model Twiggy, she was such a brown noser. Gimme a break.

At the first challenge, the girls meet designers Bao Tranchi and Erica Courtney. The assignment is to not only wear the designs but to hold couture poses for long periods of time while on pedestals to show off their newly learned contortionist skills. Yikes! Through it all, Eugena wins the challenge along with $32,000 of jewelry (wow!)

Freak Show! I loved watching the photo shoot challenge that happened the next day, where the girls had to become acts in a old-time circus! The shoot was photographed by my good friend Mike Rosenthal. Things got a little gross during the shoot, especially A.J.’s set, but it’s all about standing out. I loved how CariDee straddled the car in her shot! That was priceless. And what the heck was up with the twins shooting together as Siamese twins (left)? A. too obvious, too dull and B. how can you then judge them separately? Jaeda has coaching issues– I just don’t see Top Model in her, you guys. In the end, it was “Bearded Lady” Megg, rocking and rolling herself home after elimination. She was cute, but she wasn’t a model in my eyes — just a pretty girl who loves to rock out with her beard out. Until next week!

Model and America’s Next Top Model alum (cycle 6) Joanie Dodds gives a weekly insider’s view on the hit show.

Last night was probably one of the funniest ANTM episodes ever! The episode kicked off with the girls having to literally walk on a tightrope! PRICELESS! Most of the girls did pretty well, but I was more interested in what was going on at their home-away-from-home – so jealous of the girls creating a mattress slide down the stairs of the house.

Ok, The Second Challenge. The girls meet Miss Jay with the fabulous Bre from cycle 5. They have to walk their butts off on an uneven walkway with masks on. A.J. of course nails it and wins the challenge — she’s definitely becoming my personal frontrunner. You have to be a super runway diva to make it to the end so if you can’t walk, you just can’t be a Top Model. Click through to the next page to read the rest of Joanie’s Take on this episode.

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Photo: Bryan Lynn & Denise Crew/The CW; (inset) Jim De Yonker/UPN/Landov

The prize for winning this challenge is to walk in the Dennis Quaid Charity Show in Auston — so AJ, CariDee and Megg are off to (yawn) Austin. I mean, Texas, Yeeeee-ha! The one thing that hit me was the girls’ reactions to being on the runway. A real model feels exhilaration — when you are up on that stage and your heart is racing and you know you nailed it. These girls really want it.

Monique — my least favorite! — gets “sick” wah, wah, wah… and has to go to the hospital. I say, suck it up. Danielle from Cycle 6 was in convulsions and puking in a country where they didn’t even speak English and there was bird flu and she still went in the jungle and rocked it! Now that is tough. Monique is such a weak competitor; I could have blown her over like the big bad wolf.

Freaking loved the photo shoot. The girls rocked Charlie Altuna’s fabulous designs. Charlie’s one of my personal best friends, and I love modeling for him. The runway turned out to be an unstable boardwalk over the pool. The twins rocked it, as well as Jaeda, A.J. and super-sexy Brooke (left). I loved how Charlie said CariDee’s breast popping out was “so Paris.” That was hilarious although I was thinking, “So Tara Reid.”

Well, we know what happens when you don’t go to a photo shoot…. you GET SENT HOME!! I jumped up and danced a little dance today when Monique left. She was pretty, but a Top Model has to be able to get along with everyone and never gives up. I was in the dentist’s chair for 3 days straight pretty much and I still rocked out… Hasta la Vista Monique.

Also thanks Tyra for calling out Melrose for being like Jade — “thanks for believing in me” — that was priceless.

Until Next week, Joanie

Model and America’s Next Top Model alum (cycle 6) Joanie Dodds gives a weekly insider’s view on the hit show.

Well, holy moly! I loved and hated this episode. The first real makeover is always the best, don’t you agree? It’s fun to see just what these girls are going to get done — and who is going to cry. (I sound so mean!) As a past contestant, I cringe and feel their anxiety. But the biggest makeover was Jaeda –from Cute College Girl with Layers to Hot Halle Berry Pixie! She definitely pulled it off. After getting their makeovers (which I loved!!) from a super master stylist (stop whining!) — the girls had to face their next challenge, the HAIR WARS! Click through to the next page to read the rest of Joanie’s Take on this episode.

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Photo: Tracy Bayne/The CW; (inset) Jim De Yonker/UPN/Landov

Jay Manuel met the girls at a hotel where they were given a super stressful challenge. They had 30 seconds to catch the elevator, and jump off at different floors on which they had another 30 seconds to get makeup, clothes and accessories. If you missed the elevator, you were out. WOW! Megg and Monique were eliminated. Gotta be on your toes!

Upstairs they met Queen Latifah and tried their best to sell their new look. Queen loves Eugena, and the prize turns out to be a shot for Cover Girl, very cool.

At the photo shoot, it’s all about the craziest, biggest, most outrageous wigs and accessories you’ve ever seen on a head! Everything from Toucans to American flags to Amanda’s Red Star-Trek fantasy (left). The point was to stand out from even the craziest distraction. Anchal– my fave– gets Cover Girl of the week. Way to go, girl!

Elimination. My two picks for the bottom two going into this elimination were Eugena and Monique, just because their shots were weak, and Monique is, uh, not the nicest. I love these TWINS! So amazing! Again, Anchal rocks me and so does AJ.

But in the end, the bottom two comes down to a very shocking Jaeda and Megan. WHAT? Megan goes home? Can anybody say, deja vu Mollie Sue? The blonde bombshell with the great look goes?? WHY???!!!!!! I guess you just have to trust the judges.

Can’t wait until next week…
Joanie

What did you think of this episode? Leave a comment, let us know!

Model and America’s Next Top Model alum (cycle 6) Joanie Dodds gives a weekly insider’s view on the hit show.

The top semifinalists were ready to work it and eager to get things started. So many great personalities and fierce attitudes! It seems as if no one is shy or afraid to speak their minds.From the beginning the girls had it going on, walking the runway, posing; I was impressed. Our season had girls who had no chance on the runway, but not this season.

That sassy Miss J meets up with the girls for the first test — a photo shoot at the airport, and then a nude photo shoot on top of the roof of the hotel. Let’s hope no one across the street had binoculars! But damn, I love these girls. Anyone who isn’t afraid to strut their stuff naked is ready for this competition for sure, ’cause you know Tyra is going to throw some crazy situations your way and you better be ready and up to the challenge!

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Photo: Oliver Bronson & Dylan Don/The CW; (inset) Jim De Yonker/UPN/Landov

Tyra, Miss J and Jay Manuel narrow it down to the finalists… is it just me or does Jay Manuel get hotter with each season? Too bad – he’s taken, and oh yeah, he’s gay.

The finalists include:
Caridee, a loud and bubbly beauty who has a striking resemblance to Rebecca Romijn

Melrose, a 23-year-old who to me looks kinda frumpy but has a great body.

A.J.,, one of my favorites, a fashion model at best with a hard-edged look.

Monique, a diva with a smokin’ hot figure and a dark skinned sista!

Jaeda, the girl with the masculine features who knocks my socks off with her exotic beauty.

Megg, a rocker and a roller with a bad-ass demeanor.

Christian, a soft-featured sweetheart who’s looks totally remind me of Naima.

Eugena, who didn’t like the girls from cycle 6, (BOOOOO!) Honestly I didn’t think she’d get past semi-finals, being the diva she was in front of Tyra and the J’s, but she’s got a great face.

Megan, another one of my favorites. Megan has the androgynous sex appeal whose look reminds me of Kim from cycle 5.

Anchal, who is one of the prettiest, most breathtaking beauties the show has seen!

Brooke. Now this girl, love her body, cute, cute blonde, but come on – this girl should go straight into acting. She’s got the confidence and ability and I’ve only seen her for 2 hours. Can anyone else see Reese Witherspoon?

And last but not least, the twins – Amanda and Michelle. I ADORE these twins. Editorial material, runway material, and best of all, they are super cool and Real!

I think all of the girls would be nice to meet in person, but no one really took my breath away from the get go. No one that is except for Anchal! Breathtaking! I’ve never seen such a beautiful girl.

The girls move into the house and the drama begins… it’s a complete Tyra house! Not a wall was left uncovered by one of her pictures. There are so many girls that I think remind me of Lisa from cycle 5. Caridee and Megg both are pretty crazy — can’t wait to see what they conjure up in the weeks to come.

As for the first photo shoot: Some would call Tyra crazy and, well, she is. What the heck was she doing? Tyra comes into the photo shoot screaming and acting like a prima donna. It was hilarious. The girls had to be a stereotypical model with types ranging from Narcissist to Dumb Blonde. I thought it was great. I was surprised to see how some of the girls actually couldn’t pose very well in front of the camera, but this is exactly why they are here, to test themselves, learn and to become the best they can, one of whom will carry the title of ANTM at the end.

I was totally impressed with Brooke, AJ, Carridee, Amanda and Michelle. They rocked it. In the end it was the unenthusiastic Christian who was sent home. But honestly, I wasn’t surprised. You really have to go all out from the beginning to be recognized. She was holding back too much. I really didn’t like Melrose after this photo shoot. Yikes, what a brat. In the end Melrose was knocked down a few pegs by the judges and allowed to stay.

I can’t wait until next week to see if these girls can out shine one another and what kind of fights they get into. Its always fun to watch cat fights…. wish I could be there to see them in action.

Wow wow wow, another great season… another round of amazing girls with so much potential and amazing bodies. You Go Tyra.

XOXO

Joanie