A Quick Backstage Chit-Chat with Calvin Klein Exclusive Addison Gill

In terms of casting, the Calvin Klein lineup is the closest that the CFDA comes to eliciting an industry buzz akin to that conjured in Milan by the Prada exclusive début faces. Calvin reigns as a model's paramount American runway to land and is vigilantly and consummately cast by Maida and Rami -– the dynamic directorial duo known for consistently launching the season's most sought-after models at the show. This season they expertly elected Louise Maselis (16, Belgium –- winner of Elite Model Look 2008), Lindsey (17, American -– the first young woman of color to obtain a CK exclusive), and my radiant friend Addison Gill (16, Canadian -- winner of the second-annual V Magazine/Supreme Management "V A Model" Contest).

I originally met the spry and spirited Ms. Gill several months ago during her first jaunt to the big city over dinner with her lovely mother at Spring Street Natural in SoHo just before her book-building photo session with my dear friend, the superlatively talented young photographer Owen Bruce. At the time, Addison was still vying for the Visionaire modeling competition (which she eventually inevitably won) that saw the now-flourishing Amanda Laine reign Supreme in its initial run. And yesterday's Fall 2009 Calvin Klein presentation was the first major catwalk debut for the stunning bright-eyed and bushy-tailed newcomer who arrived stateside two weeks ago to rehearse her walk at the Supreme Management agency and have Paul Rowland snap his legendary polaroids. It was an honor to bear witness such a career-making (and frankly, life-changing) occurrence in a friend's lifetime and a pleasure to briskly catch up with the Chantal Nadeau protégé just prior to the show.

Do you ever become homesick while traveling? Do you bring any mementos or keepsakes from home with you?
I do sometimes, but I have my mom with me which helps immensely. Thankfully I can stay in touch with friends and family via emails, texts and such. In terms of momentos... at home I keep my favorite perfume –- DKNY Be Delicious –- and since I'm afraid to break it while I travel, I spray little cards with it and bring them with me on every trip!

How do you maintain your radiant complexion? Do you have a specific beauty ritual?
I drink lots and lots of water but I don't have a specific beauty ritual per se. I do however cleanse my face thoroughly each night before applying my moisturzing cream. I love my body-exfoliating loofah and for makeup I adore my Neutrogena MoistureShine Lip Soother Lipgloss in Glisten!

What will likely be your last thoughts prior to stepping out onto the CK runway?
Are my shoes on tight enough? Stand up straight... head up... don't look down... and own it!

And yes, unlike Sasha Pivovarova (whose broad shoe-strap came undone during the second showing) Addison's shoes were indeed faultless and gracefully fluttered down the catwalk without a hitch.

Photos above: Addison Gill at Calvin Klein show; Addison Gill polaroid by Women/Supreme owner Paul Rowland; and Supreme showcard by Paul Rowland

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