Starting Poses

Heres some basic poses, I suggest you study the hand placement, the slight angles of the face, hips, elbows, neck. Try these in the mirror, see what works and what doesn't. Some poses work great for some people, but not so much for others. Some of these would only work with some kinds of modeling as well. Make sure you judge which are appropriate, and which aren't. 

-E

Spring Fashion 2014

Spring doesn't officially start until a couple months from now, but its never to early to get ready for the up coming fashion season. So, let's you gets you on the right foot onto your fashion career. 

Here are the ten top clothing articles that are trending in fashion and on the runway a the moment. Some of these articles have fancy names, but don't let that scare you off. I will be breaking it down for you.

Collarless Jackets- A great layering piece, a streamlined coat with out the collar (Obviously). This piece can go well with a body con dress, dressy trousers or even a pencil skirt. 

Shift Blouse- With distinctive sleeve length to the elbow and ending just at the waist, this piece can really make an outfit. This is when you can bring out your funky prints and just have fun with it.

Tuxedo Strip Pants- Strips can make your legs longer (Yay!) On the right you see a reverse tuxedo, mainly white with a hint of black.

Sweater Dressing- Such a fun term. Basically saying you put an over sized sweater over a loose dress.

Tea Length Skirts- This is a lady like hemline, yet so modern. These can be sexed up by showing a little shoulder  or a little arm.

Bomber Jackets- These are edgy, sporty. Like it's cousin the moto jacket, the bomber is ultra versatile to temper the girliness of a dress or complement the athletic chicness of dressy shorts.

Straight Leg Trousers- This elongates you legs, if you are feeling short, uses these to make your waist look higher and make your legs look longer.

 Pastels- Im actually so excited about this one, pastels are great colors to wear in the spring time, especially around easter time.

Contrasting Collars- This is contrast in color, or texture. It adds a bit of change to your button down, and makes the piece unique. 

 Boxy Cropped Jacket- This tends to be flattering on all body types and can be paired with just about anything!

Stay stylish!
-E

Model Bag Essentials

Hey again!

So you may be wondering what a model bag is. To put it simply its a big bag full of all the stuff you need, or may need in any circumstance when modeling.
Many models have specific bags already ready, so they can grab and go if they have a shoot that pops up. More serious models have on in their car at all time!!
So now what to put in it.

• Lip balm or gloss- These both should be clear or a close skin color. Its important to keep your lips soft and healthy looking.
• Basic make up kit- This includes foundation, pressed powder, mascara, eye liner and eye drops.
• Hair products- Bobby pin, hair tie, hair spray, brush and/or comb.
• Portfolio and head shots- THIS IS A MUST! If you aren't going to carry around anything with you, make sure this is the one thing you always have on you!! If you don't have a portfolio, work on getting some professional shots taken to start it off.
• Pumps- At least 4 inches, preferably black or nude. You may be asked to walk in them.
• Comp Card- (See previous post for what a comp card includes) This is to leave behind so they have a reference of you.
• Vouchers (Only for agency models)- These ensure you get paid. VERY important.
• Panty Liners- Yes, its important you are always prepared. The last thing you want is to be caught off guard.
• Thank you cards (Blank)- This is a formal thing, write a quick thank you to the people who shot your shoot.
• Water- Stay hydrated 
• Directions to the set- Don't want to get lost or be late.
• A small snack- Something healthy, like a snack bar. Nothing big.
• Phone charger- Although you shouldn't be on your phone, you don't ever want it to die on you.
• Panty hose- Always good to have extra if you rip your other pair.
• Extra Change of clothes- Keep this simple. If they want another outfit, bring a scarf or a hat to liven up what you have on.
• Breath mints- Think of gum as illegal. No one wants to see you chomping away, or have to wait for you to throw it out. Breath mints are the best way to go to keep your breath minty.
• Mp3/ipod/kindle/book (etc)- Sometimes the wait is long and you don't want to be bored, so bring stuff to entertain you.

I hope this helps. You can always of course bring more, what ever you want. Some people bring mini sewing kits, and double sided tape for last minute repairs. But the key is to have everything, and not have a 10 pound bag. Its all about balance and knowing what you need and what you don't!

Comments please on what you think, feed back?

-E

What to Bring and Wear

Things to have with you:

 Tops: Blazer & Tight shirt or tank

Blazers are always a good way to go. Wear a plain shirt underneath and be willing to take your blazer off if they ask.









Pants: Slacks or Jeans

Jeans show off your natural curves, and can be dressed up or down.
Black is thinning too!!

Shoes: Flat shoes to start, have heels on hand.

Nude heels match everything- expect them to ask you to walk for them too!!









(NOTE: Bring nude underwear and black as well)

In your bag please include:

Swim:

They may ask to see how you look in a bathing suit. A bathing suit is more formal then them asking to see you in your underwear.

Make Up:

Come fresh faced. The only make up- if any is foundation. I don't suggest wearing it to auditions, but bringing it is a good idea because they may ask to see your shade, or ask for it to be on later.
Note: Also bring your own brushes for hygiene purposes.




Next section is not required.                                 COMP CARDS

This is a comp card. You get some photos from you portfolio, and get it printed on a card, back and front. This shows examples of you work, sizing and your agents contact info. Mainly experienced models will have this.
Its not required, but they are easy for people to file, and hold onto.
I only suggest getting comp cards printed if you are serious about this business. Seeing as though they aren't cheap, and are bigger than a business card.

There is alot more you need to bring and I will post later a Model Bag packing list with everything you should bring. Be prepared to look like a bag lady!!

-E

Job and Audition Etiquette

Whether you are a top model, or just a beginner, having the right etiquette is key.

First impressions will make it or break it.

Yes, you hear this all the time. But it's true! First impressions matter. A whole lot. You have to be charming, prepared, and well taken care off. Physical appearance is the first thing people will see. Even before you open your mouth or show them how you work, they will be taking notes on how you present yourself.

A few details to make sure you take care of prior to a job or audition:

• Show up early. Not on time; early. This means 10-20 mins before you are scheduled to be there. This way if theres traffic or something you wont be behind schedule.
• Clear up your skin. This means bruises, or tattoos. Cover up works wonders. 
• Clean hair. Wash your hair the day before.
• White, clean teeth. Whitening strips are expensive, but please at least brush your teeth.
• Manicured fingers and toes. Have them done perfectly or not done at all. Make sure they are clean, and cut. (Light tones or nudes are best)
• Water, Water, Water. Water is important for your skin. it hydrates it and makes you have a natural healthy glow.
• Get at least 8 hours of sleep before the job or interview.
• GOOD HYGIENE!! Please please please, smell good. Be clean!

Also- here's another good tip

Leave the drama at home!! 

No one wants to hear about your parents divorce, or how your boyfriend just broke up with you. You need to be a professional, and professionals leave their personal lives outside of work.

Don't forget to smile, and be yourself. No one wants a phony. 

Good luck!

-E 

Let's Get Educated! Modeling Basics.

Hey! First off, yes Im 16 but give me a chance. I'll surprise you!

So fashion and modeling is looked at two ways. 

1. "Ew- Fashion, it's bad for girls, idolizes girls with good bodies and forces girls to be anorexic"
2. "Fashions an art form, a way of using clothes, bodies, and lighting to convey beauty."

Neither of these are wrong. Yes, Fashion is aimed more to tall, slender women. Women who have great genetics. 

But on the other hand, the fashion industry is rapidly changing as the world changes. 

Ever heard the term: Plus size model.

This is a great example of change. Model agencies and fashion magazines are starting to display thicker women, loving their bodies. You should embrace what you've been give, not despise it, and want what the girl next to you has.

Two common misconceptions made by women is:

First: Im Bigger than an average model, so I'm plus size.

This is false!! Just because you aren't a size zero doesn't mean you are a "plus size model". Just like main stream models, plus size models have modeling requirements. I suggest you looking them up, because they vary for agencies. 

Second: Models are all naturally tall and thin.

False.To an extent, all models have to be naturally tall and thin. However, there are problems in the fashion industry with eating disorders. You need to tread those waters carefully. Agencies aren't likely to care whether you are healthy or not. They just want you to have a look that pays. If you aren't naturally the size they want, it's not worth starving yourself. Look into other options such as print, instead of high fashion, or runway.

I hope this helps. If you have any questions, or want more common misconceptions, please shoot me a comment. I'll answer to the best of my knowledge.

-E