really different

there are some series that you watch for the sheer entertainment value, for the drama, the laughs and the tears when contestants interact. then there are the shows that you watch for the fashion and the physical changes that occur. i remember the times when 'survivor' was the only reality television series around and the social dynamics were the only highlight. after the success of that series, a slew of reality series followed and some transformed normal civilians into stars, as long as you had the 'it factor' (which differs from show to show). one of my favourite parts of reality television was the multiple makeovers that one witnesses as the series progresses. it gives one hope that someday, if i work hard and last thirteen weeks of elimination, i can look like that.

Bae Yong Joon

so here are three picks that i feel look really different, thanks to their reality television makeovers!

1) america's next top model: ann ward

Ann Ward

this show needs no introduction or further description but what is evident about the makeovers is this: the hairstyles (or looks) that we select for ourselves are never 'fierce' enough. we always need the masters of makeover to aid us in going from drab to fab! anyway, my all-time favourite has to be ann ward from cycle 15 because her transformation was nothing short of a fairytale. from the ugly duckling to the beautiful swan, who does not love a lovely ending?

 

ann has since been signed to img models in new york city. her cover of beauty in vogue was published in may 2011 and her editorial in vogue italia was published in march 2011. instead of having a two-page spread, she received a five-page spread in vogue italia.

i say: never belittle the power of contact lenses and a new hairdo!

2) the biggest loser: ali vincent

Ali Vincent

the show she participates says it all. why ali vincent is one of my choices is because she is the first female to win the show and she went on to be a huge inspiration to many people who want to make changes in the lifestyles that they were leading. this is especially crucial in america since it is the country with the highest rate of obesity.

in september 2011, ali vincent began hosting her own show, live big with ali vincent, a half-hour series on the live well network. besides lifestyle and motivation, the show offers advice on shopping, cooking, working out, etc.

i say: the best workouts are still the ones that we actually commit to and do regularly.

3) rupaul's drag race: alexis mateo

Alexis Mateo

this is one show that will never make it to the screens of singapore television but thanks to technology (and a friend who is a downloading expert), i get my regular drag race fix. alexis mateo is probably not outstanding as a reality contestant but i loved the personality so much so that i've infused her signature phrase into my blog (unfortunately, i can't find a video online). 

this show has its fair share of critiques but from a viewer's standpoint, i think there is value in it when one observes beyond the hair, make-up and outfits. it is an industry and the careers of many. takes a performer to understand another and hence, the feature as one of my top three makeovers.

i say: big hair, long lashes and a whole lot of tucking... viola, you have yourself a queen!

fash'on... BAM!