You may had seen some of the commotion going on at your local Shopping Center in September this year. That's because DB have launched a Diversity Unsigned Model Search Across both NZ and AU, partnering with Red 11 agency in New Zealand. The model search is a first in Aotearoa, and focuses on amplifying voices that have been underrepresented for too long.
DB states on its website "We reject labels. ‘I design me’ stands for freedom, individuality, authenticity, and diversity". For more information, check out the website.
We also have a great giveaway ending on Nov 27th. Head over to our Instagram to enter.
On July 1st 2024, Liz Webster assumed the role of CEO at Total Beauty Network (DB Designer Brands). She brings a wealth of experience in merchandise, category leadership, supply chain, and retail operations. Liz's extensive background spans both national and international markets, covering sectors such as health, beauty, fashion, footwear, and accessories.
We got to chat to CEO Liz Webster all about the model search, her fav products and the future of DB!
Pictured: CEO of DB Cosmetics Liz Webster.
Can you tell me about the model search, and why you decided to run this campaign?
The Unsigned Model Search is an opportunity to progress the modelling industry further into advocating for more inclusivity and diversity. We believe all individuals should be represented in the media all ages, genders, sizes, ethnicities, abilities and aspirations. At DB Cosmetics we create real designer cosmetics at real people prices, for real everyday people! We want to showcase our cosmetics on real people; authentic and compelling individuals who have something to share and deserve a platform. Representing our brand with pride and some marvellous, colourful cosmetics. After the success of the campaign in 2023 in Australia, the next obvious step was to expand this into a Trans-Tasman campaign and bring it to New Zealand!
This is running throughout NZ and AU. What are some of the differences in the two campaigns?
The obvious difference is, this is the first time we’ve brought it to New Zealand, which has been extremely exciting and opens an array of opportunity for the future. We also hosted a pop-up event at Westfield in Albany to hunt for new talent, which was a first of its kind. The winners of the New Zealand campaign also receive a double modelling contract in both New Zealand and Australia, with Red 11 and ICON Management. The NZ winners will then join our Australian winners to complete our Trans-Tasman campaign ‘I design me’ faces.
As soon as I read about this, being a Millennial, It reminded me of the Girlfriend Magazine Model Searches of the late 90s/early 2000s! Though I was very happy to see the diversity was being pushed. How do you think times have changed since back then?
Times are changing for the better–however we are still all on this journey together. Inclusivity and diversity within the modelling space is critical to ensure all individuals see a representation of themselves in the media. Too often do we hear people feel unseen in the industry and doubt their ability. We want all ages, all sizes, all ethnicities and all abilities to see themselves highlighted in the media, and Red 11Modelling Agency sees this vision with us.We value real people with real stories that can inspire and make a change.There’s a long way to go, but we are creating noise and being the front for this important cause.
How has the search been going so far? You must have had some really fun entries!
The search has been incredibly successful, it has been an honour getting to meet so many amazing individuals with compelling stories to share. We have had all ages apply, from 18 to 89, who have all had extraordinary backgrounds, such as a New Zealander discus Olympian who competed in Paris this year toa neurosurgeon student to a former athlete inducted to the South African Sports Hall of Fame!
Pictured: NZ Winners Stephanie Rupa & Eden Grace Pickering.
What will the winner/s in NZ expect? What made you choose Eden and Stephanie? What stood out?
The fabulous Eden and Stephanie will become two of our faces for our 2025 ‘I design me’ campaign. They will be featured across all platforms and new product launches! They will also receive two 3-year modelling contracts; one with Red 11Modelling Agency in NZ and one with ICON Management in AU. On top of this, Red11 provides each of the winners with a portfolio shoot, and we gift a $500 voucher for DB Cosmetics.Eden and Stephanie really stood out to us, their beauty inside and out is impossible to ignore.We love their story of being best friends, and Eden being an electrician and Stephanie a train engineer.Their radiance and energy is everything DB encompasses and we can’t wait to work with them.
You partnered with Red11 here in NZ. Why do you think Red11 and Designer Brands go together?
Red 11 is the most sought out after modelling agency in New Zealand, so for that it was a no brainer. However most importantly, Red 11’s passions align with us, focussing on finding real,raw talent, showcasing real people in the spotlight with varying ages, sizes, abilities, genders, ethnicities and aspirations.
I have been a fan of Designer Brands for some time! Still one of my all time favourite shades of nude lipstick. What are some of your ultimate picks?
My ultimate picks always stem from our iconic Cult Classics. This range has a full face range for under $200,which is over $1000 cheaper than its counter parts. My go to for lipstick is the Lip Boost, for that tingling sensation to plump them up and our Hi-Light Illuminating Beauty Wand is always in my bag for when I need that supernova glow,the best product for on the go and a glowing touch up.
Designer Brands are celebrating 20 years in 2024. Congratulations. With the rise of the 'dupe' You must be reaching a whole new audience on social media like TikTok! What are some of your favourite 'dupes' you have? Are there any in particular that are trending?
Our Sweet Cheeks Liquid Blush is absolutely a trending and hot‘inspired by’ product! Inspired by Rare Beauty, the blush is super pigmented and blends like a dream, giving a fresh flush of colour–at a fraction of the price! Our Skin Renew Ceramide Foundation is also a winner, inspired by Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation, our product gives the same silky finish and skin repairing features forever $100 less–why wouldn’t you!?
But watch out, the best of DB Cosmetics is yet to come!
Pictured: Lip Boost, Illuminating Beauty Wand, Sweet Cheeks.
