Samantha Harris

[Braveheart]

2011 L'Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival Program Launch

Source: http://www.zimbio.com/

 

[Purpledinosaurxo]

she is engaged

Samantha Harris is a wedding belle
SHE has had a helluva good 12 months, being booked for prestigious fashion shoot after shoot, including a Vogue cover and a gig as David Jones ambassador.

But now, top model Samantha Harris has made a permanent engagement - of the marrying kind.

We hear her boyfriend, Luke Hunt, popped the question back in December, about the same time that Myer rival Jennifer Hawkins got engaged to Jake Wall.

The 20-year-old kept the news of her engagement to her builder partner under wraps - even opting not to wear a ring - but let it slip at the David Jones autumn/winter fashion launch last week.

Hunt, who met Harris at a Gold Coast shopping centre when she was 17, made a rare public appearance at the event to watch his fiancee take to the catwalk.

The pair now live in Elizabeth Bay and rarely attend social functions together, preferring to keep to themselves.

Despite staying out of the social scene, Hunt has made it very clear via Facebook he is smitten with Harris.

"She is pretty hot, my little princess xo" he wrote on her fan page in December.

Harris's rep, Kathy Ward, of Chic models, said she couldn't comment on the news.

"Unfortunately, I'm not in a position to comment on Samantha's personal life," she told us on Wednesday.

Valentine's Day tomorrow will also be extra romantic for the couple, marking three years since they started dating.

Yes, we can't deny that by modern standards Harris is young to commit to marriage, but it's obvious they make a great couple. Congratulations!

source for article and photo: www.dailytelegraph.com.au

 

[Purpledinosaurxo]

Our next top supermodel
HER mother's a battler and she's weathered years of rejection from beauty pageant judges, but that’s only made Samantha Harris more determined to make it as our next catwalk queen

Samantha Harris is used to coming second. As a child, she spent her weekends parading in beauty pageants, but no matter how well she walked or how enthusiastically she smiled, she was always runner-up.

Today, faced with her extraordinary lips, mahogany skin and huge eyes, it's not hard to believe the pageant judges in Tweed Heads didn’t quite know what to make of the shy, indigenous schoolgirl in second-hand clothes.

"I was eight when I started to wonder why I always came second," says Harris. "I was constantly beaten by the same girl with blonde hair and blue eyes, so I started to think that's what you had to look like to win."

Fast-forward 12 years and I venture that Little Miss Blondie might now be working on a supermarket checkout. Harris giggles, too polite to speculate. But a few things are certain: she hasn't been on the cover of Vogue and she hasn’t shot campaigns for Seafolly, Sportsgirl and Wittner, or been selected as a highly coveted David Jones ambassador.

That Harris has achieved all this at 20 is testament to far more than just good luck. Yes, she's jaw-droppingly beautiful, but it's the shyness she's conquered and the genuine sadness of her family history that elevate her story out of 'rags to riches' cliche.

Raised in a modest housing-commission home in northern NSW, where she lived with her parents, three brothers, two cousins and one brother's partner and baby, Harris says she dreamt of becoming a model long before she realised that her Aboriginal mother and a father of German and English descent had imbued her with unique features.

Despite her reserve, she loved strutting onstage, even in the dated dresses her mum, Myrna, picked up in second-hand shops.

"Mum would wash them so they looked like normal clothes, but I knew," recalls Harris, who arrives today in a simple maxi dress and sandals. "She'd always say, 'It doesn’t matter what you're wearing; if you’re beautiful on the inside, it will shine through.'"

Myrna wasn't a Toddlers and Tiaras stage mum, but as Harris started gaining recognition (first at 11, when she won an award in a magazine model search), she made sure her daughter made the most of every opportunity.

"Mum taught us to follow our goals because she was denied those opportunities," says Harris. "She had a tough life; she was part of the Stolen Generations and grew up in a children's home before she and her sisters were taken to live with their aunty."

Harris recalls with remarkable detail the story her mother has told her of being taken from her parents. She tells how her mother was tempted with lollies to distract her from saying goodbye to her parents and how she was deliberately naughty so no one would adopt her. For a time, Myrna lived in a tin shed with no electricity, then later slept in cars. By the age of 17, she was a single mother.

In sharing her story, Myrna has cleverly ensured her daughter doesn't waste her looks and talent. "I'm so lucky she's done everything she could for us so we could experience all the things she missed out on," says Harris. "It’s made me make sure things count."

And the girl is true to her word. When I arrive five minutes early for our 8am interview, she's waiting, her skin glowing not just with youth but a sensible night's sleep. She'd asked for an outline of the questions so she could come prepared. "I've taught myself to be more talkative, because I knew I had to be if I wanted to be successful," she says. "A few years ago, I was so shy, clients were wary I couldn’t deliver."

In fact, modelling bosses were so concerned about her lack of worldliness and confidence, they've spent years deliberately holding her back. At 13, Harris was flown to New York to be photographed by legendary French photographer Patrick Demarchelier for US Glamour magazine. The agencies in the Big Apple were keen to book her for more work, but her agent insisted she wasn't ready and made sure she finished high school.

Ironically, it's this fawn-like vulnerability that makes Harris so compelling. So naïve, but then, minutes later, as she slips into a figure-hugging sheath dress for our shoot, she seems part girl, part woman; part knowing, part innocent.

She's long wanted to be Australia’s first indigenous supermodel, but she's equally glad she's been given time to grow into her dream. "I put off moving to Sydney for as long as I could. I didn't want to be by myself in a huge city,” she explains. When she eventually made the move, it was with her boyfriend of three years, Luke Hunt. "He’s very supportive of my career and, if I'm homesick, he's great at cheering me up."

Although she doesn't say it, you sense Hunt is also gently encouraging his girlfriend to follow the likes of Miranda Kerr and Abbey Lee Kershaw and move to the US. Harris knows it's the next step. "I'd like to go to New York and get my name out there, but it's daunting."

One person who doesn’t need convincing is Myrna. "Samantha has to take these steps to continue in her career. I've known that since she first went to New York. When you come from a battling family, you have to walk through every door that opens for you."

A couple of minor heart attacks have left Myrna unable to work, but she feels immense pride, not just of Samantha's success, but in the three sons and the niece and nephew she raised. "I've made mistakes, but I always knew that if I had children, I'd do everything within my power to make sure their lives weren't like mine."

This month, Harris will join Nicole Trunfio and Alexandra Agoston as guest ambassadors for the new David Jones catalogue. Professionally, it's a huge endorsement but, financially, it also brings her closer to achieving another goal.

"I want to be successful internationally, but I also want to earn enough money to buy my parents their own home," she says.

So how do the Harrises feel about leaving the home where they've spent a lifetime raising their children?

"Oh, love, my biggest worry is that I'll be so excited, I'll have a heart attack and won't be able to enjoy it," says Myrna.

Back at our photoshoot, Harris is looking confidently down the lens. While she loves her job, she’s also mindful of the message it sends to other young indigenous Australians. "Being Aboriginal is a huge thing for me. Hopefully I can influence children in rural communities to think that if they put their mind to something they love, they can succeed."

MODEL AMBITION
Will Samantha Harris follow in the footsteps of Australia's other magazine-winners-turned-model-sensations?

Miranda Kerr
Won a magazine competition in 1997. Now a Victoria's Secret Angel and the face of David Jones.

Jessica Hart
Won a magazine competition in 2000. Now models for Seafolly and Victoria's Secret.

Catherine McNeil
Won a magazine model search in 2003. Now graces the catwalks of Milan, Paris and New York.

Abbey Lee Kershaw
Won a model search competition in 2004. Now walks the runway for Chanel, Versace, and more.

source: herald sun

 

[tanii94]

I can't wait till August. Just to see Miranda & Sam together.

She looks lovely at DJs.

 

[Purpledinosaurxo]

L'Oreal Melbourne Fashion 2011: Fashion full stop parade

heraldsun

 

[Purpledinosaurxo]

L'Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival: Fashion Full Stop

fashionising

 

[Purpledinosaurxo]

frockwriter

 

[Purpledinosaurxo]

Samantha Harris may be the “next big thing” in the fickle world of modelling, but this stunning Gold Coast girl is just a sweetie at heart

WORDS KATHY BUCHANAN PHOTOGRAPHY DAMIAN BENNETT
“I’d love to be a Victoria’s Secret model. I’d love to buy mum a house. I’d love to do a fitness DVD. I’d love to get a dog and when I’m older, I’d love to have a family. I think I’ll start off with two kids and see how I go,” laughs model Samantha Harris, who turns 21 in July. You might recognise her from the cover of last year’s Australian Vogue, or as the face of swimwear brand Seafolly. In addition, Harris is the latest David Jones guest ambassador, and features in the prestigious autumn fashion catalogue for the Australian department store.

“Modelling is the only job I’ve ever had, so it’s all I know,” she adds, fresh from a morning run. With her long hair pulled back, she’s fresh-faced and clearly a natural beauty.

“I applied for normal jobs — like a sales assistant in a dress shop when I was growing up on the Gold Coast, but I never got them,” she says. At a towering 1.8m and with gorgeous bee-stung lips, creamy caramel skin and brown doe eyes, it’s not surprising that Harris never had to resort to working in a nine-to-five job.

Even before she was walking, Harris’ mother was entering her daughter in beauty contests while the latter was growing up in Tweed Heads. However, it wasn’t always easy growing up in Queensland and not being a textbook beauty. “Mum is from the Dunguddy tribe near Kempsey, and dad has English and German ancestors,” she explains.
Harris has clearly learnt to use her unique look to her advantage. Last June, she became only the second woman of Australian Aboriginal descent to grace Vogue’s cover (the first was Elaine George in 1993) —something she’s justifiably proud of.

She touts Aussie labels Sass & Bide, Alex Perry and Jayson Brunsdon as some of her favourite designers, although today she’s simply wearing classic black ballet flats and a casual short suit. Somehow, she manages to look simultaneously demure yet sophisticated. Having done the rounds in London and New York, she’s now happy to be loved up with her partner and cat, and based in Sydney.

It’s clear she adores Luke, 24, her builder boyfriend of three years, and shyly admits that he’s definitely “the one”. They met through friends while they were both living on the Gold Coast. “One Valentine’s Day, he took me to the beach and gave me a bunch of flowers and we’ve been together ever since,” she reveals.

Today, she’s excited they’re moving out of their cramped inner-city studio into a one- bedroom apartment. Mainly because it means her beloved mum will be able to visit her. “Mum is a great support to me. She was sad when I left home for Sydney with Luke,” she says. Before adding happily: “Mum supports me, and Luke keeps me grounded. I don’t know what I’d do without them. Luke’s got such a big heart.” Yet they live a surprisingly quiet life. “Relaxing for me is a quiet night in — we hang out and watch movies. We don’t go out partying. But we’re going to Victoria this month to see his grandfather, and want to go to Bali for a holiday soon.”

Exercise and a balanced diet ensure Harris always looks her best. “I do drink on special occasions, but I try to keep healthy. I drink a lot of water. I eat everything in moderation, although I did have K.F.C. last night!” she laughs. “I love sushi, and will usually just cook veggies and meat for dinner.
“I have a trainer, and I’m always at the gym. My favourite class at the gym is Body Attack. I’m fit now, but it still kills me. I never used to exercise. I never really was a fit person although I was on the high-school basketball team,” she laughs and adds, “I was a lot taller than the others!”

Harris shares, “I’ve always done beauty pageants. When I was three or four, I decided for myself, “this is fun”, being up there on the stage and having everyone looking at you. It’s also fun having your hair and make-up done. When my agent called and said David Jones wanted to shoot me for their autumn catalogue, I was really excited.” Shooting the Vogue cover was “a very glamorous” experience, as was modelling for Seafolly. During this shoot at Dreamworld, she could have been just another local girl enjoying her school holidays, if not for her towering presence and eye-catching beauty.
Ursula Hufnagl, director of Sydney’s Chic Management, has worked with Harris since she joined the agency at 14 after being a national finalist in the 2004 Girlfriend magazine modelling competition. “Sam has great drive.

She has a unique look, which is sought after on the international platform. She’s one of the models to watch.
Later this year, she’ll be doing all the international fashion runway shows. Last year at Australian Fashion Week, she did shows for Alex Perry, Kate Sylvester, Manning Cartell, Jayson Brunsdon, Romance was Born, and Camilla and Marc,” says Hufnagl.

“One of her ambitions is to be the ambassador for Australian tourism. I know she’d be great. Sam has very high ethics, is very humble but professional, beautiful and multi-cultural. There are absolutely no limits to where she can go from here.”
Samantha Harris on Holidays

Gold Coast: “I grew up on the Gold Coast and my family still lives there. The weather and the beaches are amazing — it’s got such a great, relaxed lifestyle.”

Fiji: “I went there a few years ago to do a swimsuit shoot, and loved the weather and the water. The local people are really nice and it’s so hot there. I love it!”

source: jetstarmag.com

 

[JacquelineJane]

I wish she'd go to New York. She has such superstar potential, her agency needs to make her international!

 

[Braveheart]

Samantha Harris' racing style tips- An Interview with Yahoo7 Lifestyle

The David Jones model gives the lowdown on how to make a monochrome palette look chic this Derby Day.

What autumn racing season trends do you love?
I really like all the trends we are seeing for Autumn Racing. Whether it is a structured dress or jacket from White Suede and Ginger and Smart or something a bit more fun and colourful such as those dresses from Josh Goot and Zimmermann there is something to suit everyone’s style.
What do you like about autumn racing season compared with spring carnival?
The Autumn Racing carnival is a great way to embrace tradition and dress in head to toe glamour.
For Derby Day, what’s the best way to work the black and white theme?
This is probably one of the easiest race days to dress for. You can incorporate either black or white into your outfit through the use of accessories such as millinery, gloves and a handbag. Alternatively you could wear an amazing black and white dress from Willow or separates from Lisa Ho.


How can women update a black dress to make it look stylish for Derby Day?
Accessories! By adding some leather and embellished pieces to your outfit you will instantly create something new and reflect the seasons trends. Whether it be elbow length leather gloves from Gregory Ladner, a fabulous jeweled clutch from Mimco or a unique headpiece from Nerida Winter you will have created a new look for next to nothing.

Do you prefer to wear a fascinator or a hat? And which headwear designers do you love?

I don’t really have a preference for either; I think you should wear whatever suits your outfit and your mood. It is fun to wear a hat, as it’s not something you do every day and really gives a sense of occasion. Gregory Ladner, Philip Treacy, Nerida Winter and George Giavis all do amazing millinery and head pieces that are perfect for the Autumn Racing carnival.


What are your essential autumn racing accessories?
A felt hat by the Filles Collection is essential for any Autumn racing outfit and gloves are a nice way to complete your racing look. A handbag that you can carry over your shoulder and one that also can fit all my essentials such as my Bobbi Brown lip-gloss and powder is also important. As the weather can be tricky at this time of year it’s a good idea to ensure you also wear a jacket. Ginger and Smart and Goot by Josh Goot have created some jackets that are perfect for a day at the track.

How do you prepare for a day at the races?

I make sure I get a lot of sleep and don’t wear any heels before race day. It can be a long day out at the track so I want to make sure I am completely rested. I also make a trip to my hairdresser to decide how I want to wear my hat. It’s a good idea to try your entire outfit on to make sure you’re happy with it a few days before.


Which other celebrities do you think have great trackside style?
Megan Gale and Miranda Kerr have fabulous style, as does Emma Freedman. They all know how to dress for their body shape and personality and I think their outfits truly reflect this. They all also know how to have a bit of fun with what they wear and add their own personal touch.

As a racing fashion expert, what do you think makes a winning outfit?
Being comfortable in what you’re wearing is the best way to look good. If you’re not comfortable or confident it will show. Also making sure you adhere to the dress code of Autumn Racing, no bare shoulders or short dresses and skirts and always wear a felt hat!

Do you have a favourite racing fashion moment?

Megan Gale’s outfit for Derby Day in Melbourne 2008 was great! I loved the way she accessorised with a whip while still staying true to the tradition of black and white.

Source: http://au.lifestyle.yahoo.com

 

[Braveheart]

2011 David Jones Derby Day

A very smart looking Samantha at the 2011 David Jones marque during the AJC Australian Derby Day Races

Source: flickr.com

 

[fadedcolours]

Braveheart, please include the name of the flickr account you got the picture from as per the tFS crediting rules (stating just flickr as a source isn't enough). TIA!

 

[Braveheart]

Sorry about that. The account (for 511) is Paul Cush's photostream.

 

[kalista299]

She looks stunning

 

[Esperanza]

She is in the latest issue of Australian WHO Magazine!

 

[Braveheart]

Samantha Harris in Australian Who Magazine

Here are the pictures

Source: chicmanagement.blogspot.com

 

[Esperanza]

Thanks for posting!!

 

[foxglove]

So happy to see her on that cover! And the shot inside is just stunning.

 

[JacquelineJane]

I am soooo happy to see her on the cover! This girl needs more recognition. She is ten times the beauty Megan Gale (vomit) and Dannii Minogue are.

 

[Yendor]

She is one of my favourite models but i wonder why she continues to do so little on the international scene, i feel like the window of opportunity might be closing..?