What You Should Have In Your Model Bag

Posted on April 11, 2018April 11, 2018 by AJR250

WHAT MODELS SHOULD HAVE IN THEIR BAG.
PORTFOLIO - Yes, this may be obvious, but you would be surprised by how many models forget their books!
UNDERWEAR- Women should have a matching set of seamless underwear. Including a strapless bra and thong. You can throw in a more 'pretty' or 'sexy' set for any lingerie style castings. Men should have fitted boxer-briefs, briefs, and a tank top as an undershirt. All items should be a solid color, in nude, white, black and grey.
PEN & PAPER - Apart from general note taking, you may need to write down last minute important information, if you, the client, or the agent does not have access to text or email.
COSMETICS- These include makeup remover, face and body moisturizer, and SPF. This is so you can remove makeup whenever needed, and keep your skin looking hydrated and healthy throughout the day.
CHICKEN CUTLETS - Female models should have underwear accessories such as bra fillers 'chicken cutlets', pasties and bra straps. This is so the clothes can fall properly and avoid any bra peekaboo!
HOSIERY & DRESS SOCKS - Women should have nude and black hose. Men should carry brown and black dress socks. Clients do not always provide these items but need them to complete a look.
SWIMWEAR - Female models, in particular, should always have a bathing suit with them. Some clients might prefer that you wear this while measuring you or shooting digitals, rather than being in your underwear. And, it should always be a two-piece. Guys do not use bathing shorts as much, but it's good to keep in the bag just in case. Similarly to underwear, your bathing suit should be well fitted, a dark solid color, and in good condition.
ELECTRIC SHAVER - Especially for guys who are prone to the 5 o'clock shadow. If a client wants you looking the same way at 4 pm as you did at 9 am, you will need to give your face a once over. This will maintain consistency during the shoot, and you can do this right on the spot without cutting yourself. Also, there could be occasions when you are asked to arrive with a few days growth of facial hair, but then the client decides they want you clean shaven.
HAIRBRUSH & HAIR ACCESSORIES - Always carry a hairbrush and hairspray, gel, or whatever product you prefer, to keep your hair looking groomed throughout the day. If you have long hair, you should also have hair ties and kirby grips to pull it back.
FACE & BODY WIPES - Aside from cleaning your hands while on a lunch break during a location shoot, they are also great for wiping off makeup both on your face and body. Additionally, they work wonders for your underarms, when you can't apply deodorant due to wearing your client's clothes.
LINT ROLLER - You'd be amazed by how many models walk around with lint all over their black clothes.
MAKEUP & MAKEUP BRUSHES - This is for any touchups needed while on a booking without a makeup artist on set. However, if there is a makeup artist, this will come in handy should you be allergic to the products. Lastly, you will be able to apply or readjust makeup in between castings and bookings.
MANICURE KIT & CLEAR NAIL POLISH - You never know when you might break a nail! For all bookings, models are required to have neat and tidy nails. Sometimes the client might request that your nails be a certain length or shape. Unless you are expected to have an elaborate mani, it is unlikely that there will be a manicurist on set, so be prepared to do it yourself. Also, clear nail polish works great when applied on to snags in hosiery, to prevent them from running and getting larger.
TRAVEL SEWING KIT - For any wardrobe malfunctions during castings and bookings.
SHOES - Although you will most likely have a whole other bag full of shoes to take with you to bookings, you should also throw a pair or two into your model bag, suitable for last minute castings or digis.
WATER & SNACKS- For when you don't have time to pick up food in between castings and bookings, or if the catering is not your cup of tea. It's important to keep your energy and sugar levels well regulated.
PHONE & WALLET - Just DON'T leave home without them! And, remember to charge your phone.
MAP OR PRINTED DIRECTIONS - In case your phone gets flat and you can't charge it, or you have bad reception, it's always good to have a backup for locating where your bookings and appointments are.

The Model Uniform

Posted on October 24, 2017January 6, 2018 by AJR250

The 'model uniform' should show effortless style and confidence. Clothing is simple and modern, but most importantly, body conscious. This means form fitted; not trashy. Stick to dark solid colors, but you can add the occasional pop of white or color. Avoid distracting designs or busy prints, they won’t read well in your casting digitals. To get style inspiration, check out the latest designer collections and fashion magazines. Don’t worry - you can find fashion-forward casting outfits at affordable stores such as H&M, Macys, Zara, Forever 21, and Urban Outfitters. Of course, you need to add your own personal flair, and styles and trends will change, but the staples will remain the same.

JEANS/DENIM Skinny jeans are the best way to show off your body, but not everyone can wear this style. Choose a pair that flatters your legs, hips and butt. Other styles, like “Boot Cut”. “Straight”, or “Boyfriend”, are also popular. Left: Levis, 501 Skinny Jeans Carbonized. www.levi.com Right: J Brand, Photo Ready Maria High Rise Skinny Jeans in Vanity. www.bloomingdales.com
TOPS should look simple and modern; too much pattern or material can be distracting. Tank tops and slim T-shirts that fall just above the hips are great because they will show off your figure. Make sure that they are not so tight that they look too small for you. Left: Express, Best Loved Bra Cami. www.express.com Right: Robert Barakett, Georgia Regular Fit V-Neck T-Shirt. www.nordstrom.com
DRESSES/SKIRTS A good form fitting dress is essential for every female model, particularly for runway or upscale designer castings. The dress should be appropriate for the client and occasion, and the hemline is best above the knee to show your legs, but never shorter than mid-thigh. The same rule applies to skirts. Left: Joie, Christine Slip Dress. www.bloomingdales.com Right: BCBG, Simone Textured Power Skirt. www.bcbg.com
SUITS All male models should purchase at least one bespoke suit, or at the very least get a ready-to-wear suit tailored to fit you. Suits are perfect for couture runway castings, or print clients who request this attire. Give your suited look a modern twist by wearing a fitted t-shirt instead of a button down. You can also try wearing smart fitted jeans with a suit jacket for a more casual vibe. Left: Armani Collezioni, Solid Dotted Classic Fit Sport Coat. www.bloomingdales.com Right: DKNY, Men's Slim-Fit Black & Blue Charcoal Tonal Suit. www.macys.com
STILETTOS Stilettos are a necessary part of a female model’s wardrobe, and are mandatory at fashion show castings. Always buy heels that fit properly, so you can walk with confidence and without pain. If you are not used to walking in heels, now is the time to practice! A traditional three inch pump is a perfect “starter” heel, but eventually you should be able to wear five or six inch heels without breaking a sweat. Left: Nine West, Mubina Open Toe Booties. www.ninewest.com Right: Stuart Weitzman, The Curvia Pump. www.stuartweitzman.com
MENS SHOES Loafers, topsiders, boots, slip-ons and oxfords are the primary choice for male models. Leather soled shoes are preferred for runway castings; they put extra power in your strut, and just look better- although the new style of rubber soled dress shoes and loafers are acceptable. Left: Cole Haan, Made in Maine x BillyKirk Boot. www.colehaan.com Right: Donald Pliner, Nate Buckskin Leather Loafer. www.donaldjpliner.com

The Boots Every Model Should Have This Season

Posted on May 20, 2017January 10, 2018 by AJR250

ROCK YOUR CASTINGS THIS SEASON IN THESE 10 MUST HAVE BOOTS - Whether you are strutting the streets of New York, Seattle, or LA, or doing the rounds in Europe; complete your outfit with any of these babies, and you will knock the casting directors' socks off. Not only are these boots pretty on your feet, but they have a pretty price too!
FLORAL - Floral is a hot topic this winter. Add a little chic and warmth to a dull wintery day. Steve Madden 'Lovely' (Floral Multi) $129.95 www.stevemadden.com
PEEP TOE - Beautiful peep toe mesh will serve elegance and airflow in warmer markets. They are also perfect to dress up your winter shoe bag. Ted Baker 'Xstal' Mesh Bootie $229.95 www.nordstrom.com
GO THIGH-HIGH - Of course, we are going to get some stylish model worthy boots from Kendall & Kylie! These stunning thigh-highs will accentuate and keep your already lengthy legs warm. Kendall & Kylie 'Ayla' Over-The-Knee Boots $225 www.saksfifthavenue.com
LACE-UP - A vintage look for all you Romantics! XOXO 'Tamilia' Booties $59 www.macys.com
TRADITIONAL BOOTIE - A traditional bootie will go with any outfit and also a perfect addition to your shoe bag. Nine West 'Taisiya' Pointy Toe Booties $129 www.ninewest.com
ALL WEATHERPROOF - Although you may not want to be wearing these during your castings, these Sorel boots will keep you stylish, warm, and dry through the toughest winter weather. Sorel 'Joan' Rain Wedge $154.95 www.zappos.com
KNEE-HIGH - These beautiful suede boots are perfect if you still want to show off some leg, or wear under jeans for a bootie look. Jeffrey Campbell 'Jalouse' Knee-High Boots $164.95 www.nordstrom.com
WINTER WHITE- Jeffrey Campbell's winter white will add a little pop to your ensemble. Just remember to keep the shoe polish out. Jeffrey Campbell 'Vedette' Pointy Toe Booties $199.95 www.nordstrom.com
BLING OUT - Stand out in these stunning embellished Vince Camuto Booties - Also another great addition to your shoe bag. Imagine by Vince Camuto 'Resh' Embellished Open-Toe Booties $224.95 www.nordstrom.com
CONVERSATION PIECE - Quite the conversation starter; and can look awesome with well-pedicured feet and a simple, solid-colored outfit. Aldo 'Gabbi' Lucite-Heel Peep-Toe Booties $120 www.macys.com