SHE might be more goth than Gucci, but that has not stopped Melissa Hibbert making it as a model.
Despite being tormented by bullies at school, Melissa is proud to be different.
The newly crowned Alternative Model of the Year, of west Hull, says she now wants to inspire people to celebrate their uniqueness.
"I was bullied at school for wearing different clothing and having dyed black hair," she said.
"I was one of those that stood out from the crowds, but it never bothered me. However, I know others it has affected.
"I just want to encourage people to be themselves and wear what they want to and celebrate being an individual.
"It is good to stand out from the crowd. I know I look different, but that's what I like."
Melissa, 30, beat competition from hundreds of women to take the title in the nationwide modelling competition.
Earlier this year, she lost 5st – taking her from a dress size 20 to a 10 – to help achieve her dream.
"I had always wanted to do modelling, but I used to be quite a big girl," she said.
"I decided to start eating healthily and actually got off my bum to do some exercise and managed to lose the weight."
When Melissa found out about the alternative modelling competition, she decided this was the perfect chance to show off her unique style.
The annual contest brings together the alternative community from across the UK for a series of phases, including a photographic session and the catwalk.
She said: "I was absolutely gob-smacked when the judges announced I had won.
"I still can't believe it now.
"I have been going out on the alternative scene for a number of years and love the goth and metal-inspired look.
"I always used to go to Spiders and love going out in Sheffield and Whitby to other alternative spots."
DETERMINED: Melissa before and after losing 5st.Melissa, who works as an insurance underwriter in Hull, moved to the city when she was 17 after growing up in a small village near Scunthorpe.
She said: "Village life was not for me.
"I had been to Hull a couple of times and much preferred the city life so decided to move here with my friend.
"Hull also has a great alternative scene, which is fantastic."
Melissa has now been signed to a modelling agency and is looking forward to what the future may hold.
"Hopefully, this is just the start of big things to come," she said.
"It feels fantastic to have been crowned the winner as there were a lot of entries from across the country.
"I feel very lucky."
Contest celebrating 'all things unique and quirky'UNLIKE mainstream modelling contests the Alternative Model competition offers a straight-to-audition policy for all who apply.
A spokesman said: "No matter what shape, size, image or style, you will be given a fair audition in a professional modelling environment or studio.
"We do not run a voting or rating system for contestants. You will be judged at casting dates in front of professionals.
"You will not be asked for any large or excessive sponsorship fees to support your application.
"This contest is all about celebrating all things unique and quirky."
For more information, visit alternativemodelling.com
