Runway Model

Runway Modeling refers to female models who wear and display the fashion designers clothing during a fashion show. Where the word "Runway" comes in , is the models walk on a long narrow stage called a "runway"where they pose, smile and show off the designers clothing for photographers and buyers for retail stores. It is every young girls dream to be a high fashion model.

Runway Modeling is a very lucrative business. It isn't the easiest thing to break into fashion modeling, you have to meet all the requirements and be photogenic because there will be photographers for fashion magazines there taking pictures at these fashion shows. The clothing made by designers are often in very small sizes from 0-6, so a model must be a certain size and meet a height requirement. Most often the minimum height for a model is 5 feet 8 inches tall. The reason for this is that the designs look best on a long frame.

 

 

The requirements are very strict for modeling. This is a very high paying profession, so the modeling agencies require very strict discipline when it comes to the models they employ. The employees reflect on the company and the industry itself so they must make sure that their company brand maintains its good reputation. Models who are late to photo shoots or shows will be dropped because it makes the agency look bad.

How does someone interested in modeling, get into the business?
The first thing to do is get some photos of yourself, full length and head shots, and make a portfolio. This is what you will take with you when you apply to the modeling agencies. Some models apply to a modeling school first for instruction, and then get hired by agencies directly from the school. This would give someone an advantage because they will teach you the proper way to walk, pose, and carry yourself as a model. And you will receive instruction on the proper way to apply makeup and hairstyles that compliment your face.

 

 

What are the requirements to be a model?
Modeling agencies look for female models with a certain look, style and height. This is always changing so there are no set rules on your appearance except to look your best. Generally models are at 5 foot 6- to 5 foot 8 or above. However, there are opportunities for Petite and Plus size models too.

Petite and Plus size models also do fashion shows and photo shoots for catalogs and magazines. If you don't quite meet the height limit for other agencies, apply to agencies looking for petite models. Scouts are always looking for models of every type for various industries.

 

 

Once you are hired by a modeling agency, it is their job to market you and find you work. If you need photos, or training they can arrange it, but they do not pay for any of it. That will be all be out of pocket expenses. They will set you up with appointments to go and see scouts looking to hire models for shows and photo shoots.

What is involved in being a runway model?
As a model, you will have a busy schedule when getting ready for a fashion show. You must be on time for fittings, and for hair and makeup artists. Designers don't like to be kept waiting, everything works on a strict schedule that you must comply with.

Each modeling assignment will be different with different requirements to follow. These assignments may last a full day or more. Expect to spend at least 10-12 hours for an all day shoot. Part of this time will be dressing and clothing changes, hair and makeup, a break or lunch period and then the show in the afternoon or photo session with photographers.