Jennifer Lopez's Sweetface Fashion Company, LLC announced today they are launching a nationwide model search to find girls that exemplify the J.Lo by Jennifer Lopez fashion collection.

The J.Lo by Jennifer Lopez line, which debuted in retail stores in November 2001 targets women and girls with a desire for the ultra-feminine, sexy and street-chic.

The search, which encourages girls of all races, sizes and styles to come participate, will take place at Federated Department Store's locations listed below:

"The concept behind 'the Sexy New Cool ...' model search is about a confidence and belief in oneself," said Jennifer Lopez, creative director of the brand.

"By doing this model search we hope to find a selection of girls that captures the essence of our fashion line and give them a chance to see that the opportunities in life are endless."

Federated is thrilled to participate in the J.Lo model search. "This is a great coup for Federated, from a fashion and event standpoint," said Bob Jezowski, Executive Vice President / GMM, Women's Apparel, Macy's East.

"The J.Lo collection has created a great buzz since its introduction last fall and the J.Lo model search is a wonderful way to generate traffic and sales at our stores. When the collection hit the floor at Macy's Herald Square, the customer response was tremendous. These events will only build on the J.Lo phenomenon and excitement."

The nationwide J.Lo model search will begin with a one-day open session for girls ages 16-25 in each of the five cities. The panel of judges includes a representative from Sweetface Fashion Company, an editor from YM Magazine and a representative from Next modeling agency. Once chosen, the finalists will be notified the week of April 22nd, 2002. One finalist will be selected from each market.

The model search will return to New York with a finale to take place at Macy's Herald Square on Saturday April 27th, 2002. Jennifer Lopez will be on hand to announce and congratulate the grand-prize winner along with the finalists from each market. The grand-prize winner will be featured in a J.Lo advertisement to run exclusively in an upcoming issue of YM Magazine.