ESSENCE IT Girl L.A.

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The second stop on the IT Girl train was none other than one of the sunniest spots in America: Los Angeles. Check out some of the highlights from the competition.

The judges gather for a group photo before the start of the L.A. leg of the competition. They are (from left to right): Emil Wilbekin, from essence.com; actress Malinda Williams; Micki Schneider and Marcos Olazabel, both from Elite Model Management.

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Actress (and ESSENCE.COM blogger) Malinda Williams accentuates her fitted beige skirt with a cropped leather jacket and black open toe heels.

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Two can play that game! ESSENCE.COM’s Emil Wilbekin strikes a pose with Malinda Williams while taking a break during the L.A. competition.

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Contestants patiently awaited their turn to go before the judges in the waiting room.

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One of the contestants shows off her endless gams while catching up on the latest issue of ESSENCE magazine in the waiting room.

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Contestants were asked to fill out applications of basic information upon showing up to the venue for the competition.

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One of the contestants has her height taken after going before the panel of judges.

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One contestant sets herself apart from the rest of the pack by accenting her textured tresses with a pretty white flower.

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One girl showcases her natural beauty (love the ‘fro!) along with her on-trend fashion sense. (It’s all about a pastel nail and lace top.)

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The ESSENCE IT Girl signage hangs in the background of the waiting room.

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A book showcasing top model work from Elite Model Management lies open at one of the tables during the competition.

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A contestant showcases elegance and style while telling the camera crew why she should be chosen as the next ESSENCE IT Girl.

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The best way to show off a great pair of legs? Why, short shorts and a fabulous pair or pumps, of course!

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The judges couldn’t stop raving about this contestant who chose to brighten things up with a super cute strapless floral frock.

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The judges were impressed with contestants at the L.A. competition and took a moment to discuss some of their favorite picks between takes.

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One of the contestants opted to forego the sky high pumps in lieu of a more laid back style consisting of brightly colored flat sandals.

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A contestant shows off her killer bod and runway walk in front of the judges.

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One beauty checks out the fashion spreads in a recent copy of ESSENCE magazine while awaiting her chance to go before the judges.

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Malinda Williams is all smiles while jumping into her chauffeured car leaving the competition.