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There's a subplot to "American
Idol" and it is this: Looks count.
In some ways, the Fox hit is the ultimate
makeover program. During the five-month season, hicks
transform into hotties, schleps into sex symbols.
These transformations don't just happen.
"Idol" employs a team of styling magicians --
wardrobe, hair and makeup -- to work with the 12 finalists.
While they don't dictate to the performers, they try hard
to get them to develop a style.
So while viewers of this week's two-part
finale will largely be swayed by the performances of this
season's two finalists -- rocker Bo Bice, 29, of Helena,
Ala., and country girl Carrie Underwood, 21, of Checotah,
Okla. -- when the votes are counted, many in the know
believe each contestant's image also will have played
a role.
"You obviously need to have a competent
voice and then some," says Robert Thompson, professor
of popular culture at Syracuse University. "You are
not going to win if you can't carry a tune." On the
other hand, he notes, "you have to have high ratings
in other areas, including 'the look.' "
Completely correct, says a member of
the show's styling crew. "No matter how much you
agree or disagree with the sentiment, you do judge a book
by the cover," says Miles Siggins, 38, the show's
fashion stylist. "You're in front of millions of
people, and you do have to make an impression and look
your absolute best."
Siggins says once the field has been
whittled to 12, he gets in the vicinity of $400 a week
to spend outfitting each contestant. Siggins offers guidance
but has to walk a fine, diplomatic line with the singers.
"I try to be honest as I can without being rude,
but it's completely their decision," he says.
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