LOS ANGELES, Aug 18, 2004/ FW/ --- Kathleen McVey of Staten Island, New York is the 2004 winner of Lane Bryant/Ford 12+ Plus-Size Model Search. The 27-year old, size 14, teacher was chosen from over 15,000 entrants. She will receive a $25,000 modeling contract with Ford12+ Models and will appear in the 2004 Holiday advertising campaign for Lane Bryant.

The competition started last March, with applications accepted until June 11, 2004 at Lane Bryant stores all over the country and online at www.lanebryant.com. The annual contest sponsored by Lane Bryant in collaboration with Ford 12+ Plus-Size Models has launched careers for aspiring models with curvaceous figures.

When the five finalists were announced last month, Lane Bryant added excitement to the competition by creating the “Popular Choice Award” wherein consumers could log on at www.lanebryant.com and vote for their favorite finalist.

Hollie Lawing of Marietta, Georgia won the Popular Choice Award form over 22,000 customers who voted online. Lawing will receive a $250 Tiffany & Co.® gift certificate.

"Lane Bryant is fortunate to have some of the most beautiful women in the world as our customers," said Lorna Nagler, president of Lane Bryant in a statement

"Selecting just one from the thousands of wonderful entrants was difficult, but I'm proud to have winner Kathleen McVey represent us. Her beauty and confidence are perfect reflections of the Lane Bryant customer," she added.

With over 700 stores, Lane Bryant, the nation's largest women's plus-size specialty apparel retailer, provides stylish, high-quality fashion for plus- size women in sizes 14-28. Lane Bryant offers a wide selection of apparel from career and casual to eveningwear -- as well as a collection of accessories, hosiery and intimate apparel.