FOR OUR LATEST VMAN/FORD MODEL SEARCH, WE REACHED OUT TO THE SMALL TOWNS OF AMERICA, AND LET THREE OF THE STRONGEST CONTENDERS WE'VE FOUND CROSS FASHION'S FRONTIER
Our Model Searches have built up a reputation for finding diamonds in the rough, and this latest one might just be the most compelling example of our practice. Working in engine repair shops and grocery stores one day and shot by Richard Burbridge with the expert styling Nicola Formichetti for a VMAN 32 editorial the next, Cole Farr, Luke Thorp, and Logan Flatte all admitted to having zero experience modeling before being flown out to NYC to be signed to FORD Models. Additionally, all three will be back in New York this Fashion Week to see how their walks will pay off. How's that for a first foray into the industry? We asked these young men how they were feeling right before their first go in front of the camera. Read their responses below, and stay tuned to see a video of the shoot closer to the issue's sale date. The winner will be announced in VMAN 32, on stands September 2014.
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COLE FARR, 19
ASHTABULA, OHIO
How old are you really?
At least 30.
Is this your first time in New York?
Yes.
How did you hear about the VMAN/FORD Model Search?
I was online searching for modeling agencies and FORD was the first one to pop up. It looked like the most official agency.
What were you doing when you found out you were selected as a finalist?
Waking up after a very long night.
What do you do where you live?
I work at a small engine repair shop.
Are you nervous for the shoot?
Not so much.
Do you find the fashion industry intimidating?
Not at all. It seems fun and exciting.
Tell us something unexpected about yourself.
I can hula-hoop and dance at the same time.
Is there anything you would never wear in a shoot?
Women’s apparel.
Do you have what it takes to make it big?
I'll make it big. It might not be this year, or maybe not even the year after that, but I will make it big.
Anything else you want the world to know about you?
Just wait and see.
LUKE THORP, 19
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN
How old are you really?
I’d rather be 21.
Is this your first time in New York?
Yes.
How did you hear about the VMAN/FORD Model Search?
My cousin.
What were you doing when you found out you were selected as a finalist?
Just getting home from brunch with my family.
What do you do where you live?
Ride bicycles and motorbikes.
Are you nervous for the shoot?
Yes.
Do you have any experience on set?
None at all.
Do you find the fashion industry intimidating?
I just did not realize how large and influential it is.
Is there anything you would never wear in a shoot?
No; I’m familiar with embarrassment.
Do you have what it takes to make it big?
Yes. I'm driven.
Anything else you want the world to know about you?
I'm not afraid to try new things, unless it's food.
LOGAN FLATTE, 18
FORT SMITH, ARKANSAS
How old are you really?
18, really.
Is this your first time in New York?
Yes, and my first time on set.
What were you doing when you found out you were selected as a finalist?
I was with a friend of mine, and we both flipped out.
What do you do where you live?
I like hiking, rock climbing, kayaking, and soccer.
Are you nervous for the shoot?
I have been trying to get to New York for some time now and even though I'm nervous about the shoot, I'm equally psyched.
Do you find the fashion industry intimidating?
Even though the fashion industry is a mystery to me, I'm anxious to discover it.
Tell us something unexpected about yourself.
I once built a hoverboard.
Is there anything you would never wear in a shoot?
I couldn't say for sure until I come across that something.
What do you hope to gain from this experience?
I want to travel, see the world, experience new cultures and learn more about their ways.
Anything else you want the world to know about you?
I am devoted to my fat cat Arthur.
So much potential! 
