How to become A Runway Model

For some, owning that latest dress they saw in a fashion show is a dream. For others, being a Runway Model who catwalks to display that dress from a renowned fashion brand or designer is what dreams are made up of. Fashion icons, brand ambassadors and more, Runway Models are a package of elegance, grace and grit. 

• Catwalk Model
• Supermodel
• Fashion Model
• Live Model
• Freelance Model

What do Runway Models do?

A Runway Model would typically need to:

• Represent and advertise fashion brands, companies and designers by wearing various clothing, accessories, footwear and jewellery and walking the ramp in fashion shows
• Create and maintain a digital and printed portfolio of their work, adding the latest work and photographs to it; present it at interviews, called “go and sees” 
• Select and apply to a modelling agency or school and register with the most suitable and reliable one
• Make sure to fulfil the requirements that the job they are applying for requires, such as age, height, weight and clothing size
• Follow personalised health and fitness routines to stay in shape and maintain their appearance in sync with industry standards
• Be professional in their work ethic, punctually attending casting calls and jobs
• Make sure that rehearsals, fittings and shows progress smoothly; deal calmly with agencies and designers even when there are conflicts or complications
• Cooperate with casting and production directors, taking instructions in a calm and positive manner and following them accurately
• Understand the product being promoted by finding out about the designer, the fabrics being used, or the theme of the show 
• Collaborate respectfully with all team members, including makeup artists, hair stylists, photographers, to create the required look and production
• Offer observations and suggest improvements tactfully, based on the knowledge and experience gained from earlier productions
• Comply with industry rules and regulations
• Travel to meet clients or attend shows and interviews
• Stay up to date with the latest fashion trends

Runway Models work in a variety of conditions. Rehearsals and fashion shows could take place indoors or outdoors in different weather conditions. Fittings for costumes may happen in showrooms, small designer shops or department stores. Makeup, hairstyling and changing into different costumes for rehearsals and shows are carried out in allocated dressing rooms at venues.

You may need to travel frequently to meet clients in different cities or perform in fashion shows. 

Runway Models may work full-time or part-time in the fashion industry. However, their work schedules are likely to be erratic and demanding, particularly if they are engaged with different assignments at the same time. Working on evenings, holidays or weekends to rehearse or perform in shows is likely. 

While they must stay prepared to participate in a show at any time, they may also go through spells of unemployment. 

A model's life pivots around work. They must look fresh and alert every day for their work, which means an early bedtime routine, regular workouts, and meticulous attention to diet.

Finding a new job might seem challenging. A Runway Model can boost their job search by asking their network for referrals, contacting companies directly, using job search platforms, going to job fairs, leveraging social media, and inquiring at staffing agencies. If you enrol in a modelling program, you can reach out to the placement office for information on job openings or agency recommendations. Keep in mind that you may need to contact or visit several agencies before finalising one.

Runway Models are generally employed by: 

• Fashion Houses
• Modelling Agencies 
• Advertising Agencies
• Public Relations Firms
• Fashion Magazines
• Photographers
• Freelance Fashion Artists & Illustrators

Professional associations and organisations, such as the International Modeling and Talent Association (IMTA), are crucial for Runway Model interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation. Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.

• Finding a reliable agency that matches your needs
• Keeping yourself fit, within the required weight limits, and attractive at all times
• Not letting negative comments and rejection affect your self-esteem and morale
• Unstable income due to the unpredictability of assignments
• Keeping safe from blackmail or being enticed into unethical, immoral or illegal compromises in return for work
• Resorting to substance abuse especially before getting on the runway to escape shyness, anxiety or fear
• Muscle pulls from standing and walking for a long time wearing high heels
• Rapidly changing your outfits, hairstyles and makeup within a short space of time during a fashion show
• The need to wear revealing clothes on runways, even in an open-air area which may be cold
• Dealing with the fatigue that comes from putting on shows and jet lag from travelling

A modelling program that a potential Runway Model takes up typically involves a period of supervised experience, such as an internship. You will gain optimal benefit from your tasks outside of the classroom when they line up perfectly with your lessons inside it. You may get to hear countless stories from more experienced professionals and obtain valuable hands-on experience when they manage to turn seemingly routine incidents into unique learning moments.

The greater your experience, the more the possibilities of landing a job at a fashion show. You can begin to develop your experience as a Runway Model by volunteering for charity fashion shows. You may also take part in local department store fashion shows. Many Runway Models start their careers in unrelated roles such as hostesses or cashiers.

Building a portfolio that includes your latest and best photographs gives you experience in diverse clothing styles, makeup, hairstyling, body postures, and facial expressions. Hiring a professional photographer will help you derive the best outcomes and learning.

You may seek advice on gaining experience from a professional model, an agent, a fashion designer, or a photographer.

Read about the profession and interview or job shadow successful Runway Models to prove your commitment to course providers and prospective employers.

While aspiring Runway Models need not fulfil any mandatory academic qualifications, employers may prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent as long as they also match other specific requirements.

You may join a modelling school to improve your posture and learn or refine your catwalking skills, makeup application techniques, and diet patterns at the start of your career. Check online or within your network about the reputation of any school you plan to join.

It is helpful to take high school courses in speech, dance, drama, and fashion design to build poise and appreciate clothing styles.

Certification demonstrates a Runway Model’s competence in a skill set, typically through work experience, training, and passing an examination. When acquired from an objective and reputed organisation, it can help you stand out in a competitive job market, carry a significant salary premium of up to 18 per cent, increase your chances of advancement, and become an independent consultant. Successful certification programs protect public welfare by incorporating a Code of Ethics.

You will need a licence or permit from local government authorities if you are a minor and working as a child model. No special licensing or certification is required for adult models.

Performance, experience, and the acquisition of professional qualifications drive career progression. Employees with consistently high performance levels may be eligible for promotion every two to three years. 

The path for Runway Models is open as they can take their career to various levels. You may be satisfied with a part-time job or begin working full-time.

Only a few Runway Models go on to become Photographic Models. The majority of them stay on the runway their entire career. If you work for a large fashion house, you may be promoted to Senior Model or Supervisor. 

Maintaining a portfolio of high-quality, updated images, preferably in various clothing styles, is vital in securing jobs and achieving career progression. Furthermore, being active on social media and accumulating a high number of followers enhances exposure and the likelihood of being spotted by employers. The agency that Runway Models sign up with plays a key role in their advancement. The better-reputed the agency, the more assignments a model is likely to get and good-quality ones.

Since a Runway Model’s career is limited by age, some may diversify into taking up

other fashion-related roles, such as Beauty Editor for a magazine, Stylist, Fashion Coordinator, or Booker for a modelling agency. Experience, success, a solid network of contacts in the industry, and business acumen may help you launch your own modelling agency. Other options for Runway Models include becoming TV Presenters or entering the field of film, television or theatre acting. 

Aspiring Runway Models with the necessary physical attributes, skills, experience, and tie-up with a modelling agency have the best job prospects.

Continuing professional development (CPD) will help an active Runway Model build personal skills and proficiency through work-based learning, a professional activity, 

formal education, or self-directed learning. It allows you to upskill continually, regardless of your age, job, or level of knowledge.

Classes in modelling, acting, dancing and make-up may give you a competitive edge in the field. Become knowledgeable about the modelling, fashion and clothing industry by exploring the history of fashion, watching relevant videos, and learning about the art of makeup and what products and ingredients suit your skin type. Get inspired by reading supermodel biographies.

Try to acquire a college degree, studying online or part-time while you model so that you have something to fall back on at the end of your modelling career or if your career does not go according to plan. You can major in journalism to write for fashion magazines. Fine arts is another field that you could specialise in if your interests lie in fashion photography. You could even train to become a fashion designer if you are creative, have a knack for drawing figures and sewing, and enjoy working with diverse materials.

What Do You Need to Do to Become a Runway Model?

•  Make sure you meet the height, weight and age requirements of the job for which you apply.

• If you are a minor, get the relevant permits to work and have your parents or legal guardians sign the contract.

• Take care of your overall health, fitness, skin and hair by following a regimen.

• Eat healthy, exercise regularly, use sunscreen, and stay off alcohol, cigarettes and drugs.

• Pay attention to your posture. Practise your walk to suit different clothes, shoes, and music. Develop your unique style.

• Practise poses and expressions, preferably with a photographer, or set up a tripod with a camera.

• Put together a diverse and comprehensive printed and digital portfolio, preferably collaborating with a professional photographer, hairstylist and makeup artist.

• Do some research to Identify a legitimate and suitable agency. Sign up with them, ensuring they do not try to sell photoshoots or classes or ask for any upfront payment.

• Protect your physical, mental and emotional health by toughening up against rejection and criticism, building a support network, pursuing hobbies, resting well to recover from fatigue and jet lag, and seeking professional help, if needed.

• Maintain a professional attitude at all times, which includes being punctual, committed, respecting yourself and others, and safeguarding your integrity at all costs.

Potential Pros & Cons of Freelancing vs Full-Time Employment 

Freelancing Runway Models have more flexible work schedules and locations. They have full ownership of the business and can select their clients and the nature and number of projects in which they wish to work. Freelance employment allows you to express your creativity and negotiate payment rates to some extent, if rates are not predetermined, without having to pay commission to any agent or agency.

However, clients often prefer to hire Runway Models who have signed up with agencies and it can be difficult for freelancers to find work. As a result, they experience inconsistent work and cash flow, which means more responsibility, effort and risk. It is unlikely for you to land well-paid jobs until you have a strong portfolio and reputation. Moreover, since customers who hire freelance models often operate on a smaller budget, freelance modelling gigs pay less than fashion and commercial jobs. Typically, payment rates vary depending on the client, the model and the assignment. 

There is also the risk of running into suspicious individuals and agencies without an agency to filter out job offers and safeguard your wellbeing. Furthermore, you are responsible for promoting yourself, hiring photographers, printing images, creating a portfolio, finding gigs, and following up with clients for payment. You are also limited by age to find opportunities as modelling careers typically begin to wane by the age of 30.

On the other hand, a full-time Runway Model has company-sponsored health benefits, insurance, and retirement plans. They have job security with a fixed, reliable source of income and guidance from their bosses. Yet, they may experience boredom due to a lack of flexibility, ownership, and variety. 

When deciding between freelancing or being a full-time employee, consider the pros and cons to see what works best for you.

The designer determines the order in which models will walk on the runway in a fashion show. The opening and closing spots are prominent and typically reserved for the top models.

The modelling and fashion industries are dynamic and you must constantly adapt to changing trends, expectations and business climate. Large doses of patience, hard work, determination, and weight-watching are essential since opportunities and success in an intensely competitive field may take time to come by but may quickly dissipate. Building an extensive network with key people in the industry and establishing your reputation may take time but are invaluable assets for a Runway Model.

You will burn out quickly if you have the attitude of doing everything that you are asked to do. Learn to select your assignments and take it in your stride if you are rejected sometimes. Make sure to check your account regularly in order not to be tricked by any agency. If possible, hire a lawyer to protect your rights and read any contract carefully and completely before signing it.