Pilot Raina Marinelli is a stunning beauty with a secret past who makes an unforgettable impression while strutting down the runway in a Zac Posen gown during New York Fashion Week, and effectively steals the spotlight away from fellow model Sonja Stone. Sonja has been out of the country for mysterious reasons, and is now desperate to convince her agent, Claudia Foster, that she can reclaim her standing as the reigning supermodel. Deemed the new "it" girl, Raina soon meets Chris Andrews, a strikingly handsome Iowa farm boy just entering the modeling world, and takes him to the "models' residence" where she lives along with other young hopefuls, including Marissa Delfina, Isaac Taylor and the current alpha-male model known as Cole Shepherd.
The Beautiful Aftermath Chris believes his chances at a modeling career are over and prepares to leave New York City until he receives a surprise phone call from Claudia. Claudia informs Raina that she needs to focus more on her career and less on her new relationship with Chris. Isaac confronts Vivienne about her behavior towards him at a go-see, and the two end up working out an arrangement that serves both their needs. Marissa accuses Sonja of stealing the Versace campaign from her and decides to seek revenge in a very public way, which leads Sonja to Cole for assistance. Marissa invites Raina's brother, Alex, to a party hosted by Nina Garcia, where more secrets about Raina's past are revealed.
The Beautiful Lie Sonja is being hounded by the press about a risque photo which forces her to consider quitting the modeling business. Aware of the chemistry between Raina and Cole, Claudia secures a campaign for a major clothing line for the two. Raina struggles with the public image she must maintain with Cole, while her true feelings are for Chris. Raina's family drama finds its way back into her life and she finally faces her father. Isaac's relationship with Vivienne is strained when he is surprisingly replaced, by Chris during a photo shoot. Raina's brother, Alex, lands himself in a bit of trouble with the Russian mob, but Marissa comes to his rescue.
The Beautiful Triangle Raina and Cole are nervous about the authenticity of their chemistry during their new campaign but loosen up after a little pep talk. Chris grows increasingly uncomfortable with Raina and Cole's working relationship. Claudia's husband, Richard, is interested in hiring Sonja to be the face of his cosmetics company's reinvention campaign. In need of cash, Chris takes a job in Alex's bar, and Marissa continues to help attract a crowd at the club. Isaac starts spending time with Hayley a new model at the residence, which makes Vivienne jealous.
