If you’ve been watching Australia’s Next Top Model, Josh Flinn would need no introduction.

For the past two seasons he’s played mentor to the clothes horses, guiding them through shoots and shows, sharing tips gleaned from his distinguished career in the fashion industry, and providing a Dolce-cladded shoulder to cry on when it all becomes just a bit too much for them.

But if you don’t recognise his face, you may recognise his moves.

Josh was one of the guys inside a Bananas in Pyjamas suit for a few years, playing B2. During that gig, he had a ringside view of us mums with our kids, and so has an empathetic perspective about what’s involved for women when we’re wrangling children.

Currently he’s the publicist for arguably Australia’s most glamorous fashion designer, Alex Perry, who has dressed some of the most stunning mothers in the world including Elle Macpherson, Linda Evangelista and Claudia Schiffer.

With his pedigree as a fashion insider, who better to natter with and get some tips for navigating motherhood in style? And he’s more than willing to give us a peek behind the scenes – from the surprising things make-up artists keep in their kits, quick hair and make-up tips, how to look ‘expensive’ when you’ve got little cash to spare, and tips on how to look like a Fox when you’re wearing Flats.

Josh Flinn: (Laughs) “Sort of, but it’s probably more like being a favourite aunt. They tell you their secrets, ask for advice about anything from boys to fashion, and I still keep in touch with many of them. One of them called me from New York the other day. We have loads of fun on set and they do confide heaps in me. They’ll be like, “What do you think of this outfit?” and I’ll be like, “Mmm, it’s cute, but change the shoes.”

 Josh Flinn: “Casual, uncaring chic. Usually thick black ribbed tights, cut-off jeans, a leotard and singlet, high shoes. The type of outfit that shows where it all starts, and where it all finishes.”

Josh Flinn: (Laughs) “Yes. Unless you are a model, don’t wear what they wear. But there are some universal rules: Wear flats if you’re tall, wear wedges if you’re short. Tights do NOT substitute for trousers. And NO jeggings.”

Josh Flinn: “Yes. Don’t wear them unless you have legs like a model.”

Josh Flinn: “Three things:

1.       Always drop your chin – if you lift it you’ll look like a lizard.

2.       Find your best side and angle and use them – front on is only for mug shots.

3.       Practise in the mirror so it’ll come naturally when you’re in front of the camera.”

Josh Flinn: “Models practise walking. Any stretch of pavement and they’re on.”

Josh Flinn: “Sure! Shoulders back, head up, fully extend your legs, and walk from the hip bones. You feel like a bit of a knob at first, but it’s worth it. You’ll look twice as tall – you’ll look longer. And having good posture makes you look thinner. Your ass will look flatter, and it’s great for your core muscles.”