How to Become a Runway Model

Dedication and perseverance are required in the competitive modeling industry. Jobs in the fashion industry, in particular, can be difficult to come by. Naomi Campbell, one of the original supermodels, discusses the essential skills required of every runway model.

What Is a Runway Model?

Runway models, also known as catwalk models, walk the runway during fashion shows, displaying curated ensembles for audiences that set the current tone or upcoming fashion trends. Modeling agencies classify runway models based on their height and measurements; typically, models are taller than 5'9" and have a slim body type. However, many plus-size models have upended the industry by shattering body-type stereotypes.

Despite runway modeling's "untouchable" image, supermodel Naomi Campbell believes that, at its best, it is a source of inspiration for everyone.

What Does a Runway Model Do?

A runway model's primary responsibility is to showcase the creations of a fashion designer. If you want to pursue a full-time modeling career, expect to spend most of your time doing these four things:

1. Get ready for the runway. Although runway shows appear to be a breeze, there is a lot of work that goes on behind the scenes of high fashion events. You will work with a tailor, a fashion stylist, and hair and makeup artists before walking the runway.

2. Walk the catwalk.  Every runway model must be able to walk the catwalk. Fashion designers expect models to always display their garments with confidence and poise.

3. Model clothing. Swimsuits, lingerie, dresses, suits, casual outfits, and haute couture are all worn by runway models.

4. Pose for pictures. Although runway models may spend more time walking in fashion shows than posing for photoshoots, they must be comfortable in front of the camera.

5 Skills of a Runway Model

Every runway model should have the following qualities:

1. Confidence: "I think having a confident walk is important," Naomi Campbell says. Fake it until you make it if you're shy. "Long strides make you appear confident," Naomi says. An assertive walk isn™t just for the runway: œWhen you go into a room, or when you™re going on stage to speak, it™s important to get up and make people feel like, ˜Okay, she appears to understand what she™s gonna say.™

2. Poise: It is critical to remain calm under pressure. "I think runway, catwalk, being on any designer or brand's presentation, you always have to present yourself and be very long, graceful," Naomi says. "I always tell myself, 'Keep still and keep regal.'"

3. Perseverance: Even on the runway, life happens. You must be able to roll with the punches if you want to be successful. Naomi has had her share of runway blunders. She claims that the key is to take everything in stride. "You just get up and continue," she says. "You just keep going if your skirt falls." You just keep going if your top pops open. The more you focus on it and make it a thing, the more they will notice it. They might not have seen it if you don't make it a thing."

4. Dedication: "There's always a fashion week going on somewhere in the world," Naomi says, "all 365 days of the year." Models must keep up with the latest fashion trends in order to work in the fast-paced fashion industry. Unless you live in one of the world's fashion capitals, such as London, Paris, Milan, Los Angeles, or New York, you'll most likely have to travel extensively for work.

5. Congeniality: Making a good first impression is important in the modeling industry. Models must network with influencers, fitness models, modeling agents, and fashion magazines in order to get more gigs. A pleasant personality and friendly facial expressions will get you far.

How to Become a Runway Model

Building a modeling career takes time and dedication. Check out the following tips if you're an aspiring model looking for full-time modeling work:

1. Recognize your own abilities. Being a model necessitates a preoccupation with one's appearance. Beauty, however, is subjective. Your body language can convey confidence, which can influence how others perceive you. The modeling industry is fraught with rejection, and you may take it personally. However, keep in mind that you have something special to offer. Presenting yourself as a confident person can help you become a successful model.

2. Understand the job's responsibilities. Modeling requires dedication, hard work, and the ability to quickly and efficiently follow directions while posing in specific ways or recreating looks for hours at a time. For the type of modeling you want to do, you'll need a variety of poses in your arsenal. You must also understand how to angle your face and body so that the camera captures the correct image. Create and practice your signature walk if you want to be a runway model.

3. Take care of your looks. Modeling is all about appearance, but being attractive isn't the most important aspect. Taking care of your body is an important aspect of modeling. While there are more modeling opportunities for people of all body types and sizes, you must still take care of your skin, hair, and nails.

4. Take headshots. To land a modeling job, you'll need to submit a variety of headshots and full-body shots to potential agencies and employers. Hire an experienced photographer to photograph you in natural light and in plain clothes to highlight your features. Make sure your photos closely resemble how you appear in person so that modeling agents can see what you have to offer. Avoid submitting filtered social media photos.

5. Create a portfolio. Many potential clients will look at your modeling portfolio before they decide to work with you. These images are more stylized and edited than your headshots. Collect your best, high-quality professional photos and organize them in a portfolio or on a website that promotes your skills and range. A digital portfolio can help potential agencies find you and see your work more easily.

6. Look for a modeling agency that fits your brand. Most models require the assistance of a modeling agency to find work. Investigate the top modeling agencies and select a few that appear legitimate and represent the type of model you want to be. Submit photos and any relevant modeling experience if you find a model agency that appears to be a good fit.

7. Look for casting calls that are currently open. Going to an open casting call is sometimes the best way to break into the modeling industry. While you can't just walk into an agency at any time, open calls (also known as go-sees) are times set aside by agencies to see new models without prior contact or appointment. Use these go-sees to promote yourself as a new model, increasing your chances of becoming a top model.

8. Think about relocating. If you want to be a model, you should consider moving to a larger city where there are more opportunities. New York City is a major modeling hotspot and is frequently the best place to find runway work.