Author(s): ALEXANDER, J.

Fashion

How does a six-foot-four, Bronx-born black gay male become Queen of the Catwalk? In one word: attitude. Beloved by millions of fans for his outrageous wit, spot-on critiques, and irrepressible flair, J. Alexander, affectionately known as Miss J, has helped groom hundreds of wannabe models as a runway coach and judge on "America's Next Top Model," as well as coaching such supermodels as Tyra Banks, Naomi Campbell, and Kimora Lee. But his empowering, no-nonsense advice applies far beyond the runway. And in this inspiring guide he shows women not just how to walk, but how to live the Miss J way -- fully and fabulously.

As witheringly funny in print as he is in person, Miss J recounts a remarkable life and career that began with creating couture knockoffs on his grandmother's sewing machine and took a brief detour while he considered becoming an accountant (yes, really). But it was a public casting call for a Jean Paul Gaultier runway show that led him to take his first impeccably clad step on the catwalk and confirmed his conviction that he belonged in the world of high fashion. In "Follow the Model" he reveals his secrets to succeeding at what you love most, shares life lessons and colorful (to say the least) anecdotes, provides a multitude of invaluable grooming and style tips, dishes on the celebrities he's worked with so intimately, and offers a glimpse into the world of "ANTM."

Not everyone is born to be a supermodel, but every woman can acquire confidence, self-esteem, and the determination to realize her dreams. You've got to want it, work it, and "walk" it -- and Miss J is ready to show you how.