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Jen calls Australia home

Jennifer Hawkins

Former Miss Universe Jen Hawkins has jetted all over the world, but she says there’s no place like home, reports Phillip Koch.

Just days ago, Jennifer Hawkins was striding down an LA catwalk with the cream of Hollywood at her feet.

As one of the ex-pats headlining the glam G’Day LA bash in Los Angeles, she flew the flag for Aussie fashion, dazzling the A-list crowd in a jewel-encrusted swimsuit.

Jen drew whoops and cheers as she shimmied down the catwalk in a one-of-a-kind, $6000 piece from her Cozi by Jennifer Hawkins swimwear collection.

Now back home in Sydney, Jen admits she is open to career possibilities in Hollywood, but loves Australia and is happier than ever.

“Life is not perfect but it is pretty good,” says Jen, who spent Christmas with her family in Newcastle after celebrating her birthday with boyfriend Jake Wall and friends.

The G’Day LA fashion show presented by Myer promotes our fashion industry abroad.

“It was a great opportunity for designers and also for me to showcase Aussie fashion to the world,” the 26-year-old explains.

Jen’s life has changed dramatically since her last G’day LA bash six years ago as Miss Universe. BRW has estimated her annual earnings at $3.3 million, making Jen the 27th highest earning entertainer in the country.

She attributes her incredible figure to cutting out all wheat products, and an exercise regime which includes Pilates, yoga and running.

“I hate the gym but I have worked out what works for my body and I have a healthy lifestyle,” she says. “I’m also happy with where I’m at in life. I used to over-analyse things but now I’m relaxed. I’m in a good place and very happy with Jake. Our dream is to buy a piece of land near the water and build.”

And then there is the lure of Hollywood.

“If a contract came up while I was in LA, I would have to think seriously about it,” Jen says. “I have taken acting classes, which help with presenting, and I would love to expand my TV presenting career. But who knows what’s going to happen. I like to be prepared either way.”

But first she wants to continue to promote Australia’s finest fashion in LA, where the right outfit on the right person – especially during awards season – can ignite a career.

Last week’s G’Day LA parade has already piqued interest, with Camilla and Marc, Yeojin Bae, Jayson Brunsdon and more on show.

“We get over 1000 people at the gala, so it’s an amazing opportunity for these designers to showcase their wares to the US market,” says G’day USA committee member Wally Mariani.

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