She became a household name when she showed off her modelling prowess as a contestant on Britain’s Next Top Model. Now, ten years later and with a successful modelling career under her belt, Abbey Clancy is back, returning to the show as head judge.
Speaking to HELLO! Online, the 29-year-old revealed that going back to the show has been "fantastic," and she gave us a sneak preview on what to expect. "There’s going to be some highs and lows in the show," she explained. "Excitement, some kick offs! Extreme makeovers and a lot of tough love."
Abbey Clancy has returned to Britain's Next Top Model as a judge ten years after competing on the show
Abbey knows firsthand just how important the process is, as she revealed she still uses the tips she picked up on the show to help with her career today. She also hopes the programme will help dispel the myth that modelling is easy.
"A lot of people see pictures in magazines and go 'I could do that'. They don’t realise the work that goes in behind-the-scenes," she said, as she recalled one shoot where she was on a freezing cold location for ten hours.
Abbey recommends the sequin mini dress from her Matalan range for Christmas parties
The mumof-two also has high expectations for the contestants. She described the ideal candidate as: "confident," adding, "They need to have stamina, professional attitude, be a good ambassador for the brand, be totally in love with what they’re doing and obviously look the part!"
Not just an accomplished model, Abbey has also broken in to the design world. And after working on two successful collections for Matalan, she’s pleased and confident with her third, which she says was inspired by thinking about what she would want to wear this Christmas.
She revealed that every piece has to pass the friends and family test, as she designs items with her loved ones in mind. This also means that there's something for everyone, with items that suit all body types and for all occasions.
Abbey admitted her favourite piece was the sequin mini, which she recommends for a Christmas party. Whilst those who want something with a bit more support will want to check out the black maxi dress, which Abbey designed so you can still feel glam whilst covered up. Meanwhile, her black jumpsuit and pencil dress are “wardrobe staples”.
Sophia Rose loves to dress up!
The mother-of-two has also considered designing a children’s collection, and there would be no better muse than her four-year-old daughter, Sophia Rose, as Abbey explained that she loves dressing up. “She’s got her own wacky personal style,” she laughed.