2antm02_ciLOS ANGELES, Mar 29, 2004/ FW/ — It felt like a déjà vu during the opening day of Mercedes Benz Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios, with contestants from “America’s Next Top Model” seen at the shows.

First, it was Mercedes Scelba-Shorte who walked for designer Lloyd Klein, the first show of the season. It was a pleasant surprise seeing her on the runway, especially that she lost to Yoanna House during the last episode.

The biggest surprise though was seeing 1970’s supermodel and ANTM judge Janice Dickenson on the same runway with Mercedes. If you remember, Janice is Mercedes’ biggest supporter during the contest.

Backstage at Lloyd Klein we caught up with both Janice and Mercedes (see photo at left).

“I’m not represented by anyone,” Mercedes said when FW asked her who is her modeling agency. A Valencia, CA native, it is heartwarming to learn that Los Angeles is taking care one of their own homegrown talents.

2antm01_ciThis year’s winner Yoanna House was seen at the Petro Zillia Fall 2004 show. She is represented by IMG, as part of her prize for winning the contest.

Another familiar face was Catie Anderson who was also at the shows. We did not see her today, but hopefully, she will be on the runway during the week.

Good work girls.