Sue Rees is a household name in not only Tasmania, but the nation's modelling and fashion industry. The Examiner spoke to Ms Rees about her work, opening her business and changes in the fashion and modelling industry.
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How long have you been involved in the fashion industry?
Sue Rees: I started modelling the the 60s before I opened Sue Rees Modelling and Deportment Academy in 1975.
What trends have you seen come and go during that time?
SR: As far as length of skirts/dresses go from just below the knee to mid calf, to mini. What they called mini when Jean Shrimpton wore a 'shock look' in 1965 at Melbourne was really just above the knee, different from the mini of today.
Do you think models are underrated professionals?
SR: I can't speak for the rest of the states, here personally in Tasmania my agency girls are certainly treated with respect whether they are walking the runway, to promotional work.
What drew you to the modelling industry?
SR: To start with the love of fashion and once I completed a modelling course, I modelled here in Launceston for many years before I purchased the Phyllis McDonald Deportment School, changing the name to Sue Rees Modelling and Deportment Academy two years after.
What do you try and teach models that come through the agency?
SR: We at the school really walk a very fine line. We are there to build our student's confidence, however, we always tell them to remain humble. For the girl or guy on the catwalk to walking down the street no one will look at someone that has that 'I love me' attitude. We refer to our students as 'coat hangers' there is nothing better than to find out after a parade that a garment or garments have been sold that you have modelled. Or, just being admired on how you look or how you carry yourself as walk down the street. My school is not only a modelling school, it is certainly a finishing school building up one's confidence for those who are not interested in modelling, but teaching them all about grooming, deportment, make-up, hair, microphone technique, skin care, fashion, table etiquette, self esteem etc. All the subjects that we teach over a three month period certainly will help them with their chosen careers. Most importantly I teach them that there is certainly life after modelling.
How often do you participate in Fashions on the Field events?
SR: The Examiner Fashions on the Field is a yearly event and pleased to say that I am involved with the Hobart Cup Fashions on The Field, also a yearly event.
What about these events do you enjoy?
SR: Having the Fashions on the Field events certainly helps our retail economy and to see how beautiful the entrants look both men and women, obviously the time and effort they put into their outfits by way they accessorise. It is a wonderful opportunity for the entrants to take the stage and show off their beautiful outfits.
Which event do you think is the most enjoyable? For example, the Launceston Cup?
SR: Of course I love the Launceston Cup events due to my involvement at the Tasmanian Turf Club. However, what ever I am involved in by way of events I give my 100 per cent knowing that I am not only helping my agency members, but the organisation that I am involved with at the time.
Do you see different fashion trends at different events?
SR: For sure, obviously if it is a night event then the trend will be different to a day event. People here in Launceston are very dress conscious and there's nothing nicer than having events to go to dress appropriately.
