The Final 5 From The Mario, Make Me A Model Showdown! Got A Fave?

Between squeezing in gym time and booking those necessary salon and spa appointments, keeping up with appearances is an ongoing process. If you're a model, however, it's a complete lifestyle. You have to really want it. Just ask the finalists of the annual Mario, Make Me a Model competition. After beating out hundreds of aspiring models throughout the Chicagoland area, the final five received full makeovers from Mario Tricoci Hair Salons & Day Spas, runway training with Factor Women, fitness training with Fitness Formula Clubs, photo sessions with Matt Ferguson Photography, and a CBS2 commercial shoot.

All of this hard work is in preparation for the final showdown at the Fashion Takes Flight runway show — part of Fashion Focus Chicago — taking place in Millennium Park on October 18. The finalists will be walking among professional models — not too much pressure, right? The winner of Mario, Make Me a Model will receive consideration for a contract with Factor Women Management, a five-night vacation to Mexico, hundreds of dollars worth of cosmetics, a one-year gym membership, and more.

Come see the show for yourself. Tickets are $35 and can be purchased online. In the meantime, click-through and get to know the final five. Who's your favorite? Cast your vote on the Mario Tricoci website.