An Essential Guide to Modeling Etiquette at Runway Shows For Beginners
By ALEXIA
Runway modeling is a unique and exhilarating experience that demands not only poise and style from the model but also a strong adherence to professional etiquette. This requires one to maintain their preparation, readiness and professionalism, posing, and so much more. While some may argue that runway modeling shouldn’t be taken so seriously, a runway model has a lot to handle at once. Becoming a runway model requires true dedication and perseverance. In this guide, we explore the essential modeling etiquette for runway shows, ensuring that models can confidently navigate the catwalk while leaving a lasting positive impression on designers, organizers, and the audience.
Punctuality Is Paramount
Things that require zero talent: being on time and maintaining promptitude. Arriving early for fittings, rehearsals, and the show itself is essential to maintaining a professional reputation for yourself within the fashion industry. Punctuality is a sign of sophisticated willingness and ensures that the event will run smoothly. Being on time demonstrates respect for the organizers and fellow models, as well as for the audience members who are expecting a show. Think about it, nobody wants to work with someone who is untimely or unprofessional, so honing these two skills is essential in making it within the industry. When a model shows up late for a show or even a shoot, it truly sets everyone back and can impact the chance of future bookings as well.
Be Prepared and Informed
Familiarize yourself with the designer's vision, the show's theme, and any specific instructions provided by the event organizers. By being well-prepared and informed, this will allow you to better embody the intended mood and style on the runway. As well as the image intended for the brand who you are representing also. Make sure to always pay attention to any instructions provided by people backstage in terms of choreography, quick changes and any other possible changes or additions to the show to ensure you are where you need to be when you need to be there. Being able to follow directions in terms of preparation will save so much time and effort for not only yourself, but from the event organizers as well.
Photo by AnnaDemy | Adobe Stock
Respect Backstage Space
Backstage can surely be a bustling and confined space. This is the space for models and other members of the production team to prepare for the runway or photoshoots. Respect the personal space of fellow models, hair stylists, makeup artists, and wardrobe staff. A collaborative and considerate approach creates a supportive environment for everyone involved. Respecting the backstage space as a model is essential for a smooth fashion show and workflow. Being organized, being mindful of others’ space, boundaries, and needs will create the collaborative yet professional environment needed for everyone involved.
Maintain a Positive Attitude
Always be sure to approach the runway with a positive and poised attitude. Whether facing last-minute changes or long waiting periods, maintaining a positive demeanor contributes to a harmonious and enjoyable atmosphere backstage. Having a positive attitude can be a huge make or break in a model’s success. Maintaining a collaborative and cooperative attitude as well as being willing to take feedback gracefully makes a world of a difference as your behavior and attitude are just as important as your appearance. As a model, you are also representing the brand so it is vital to ensure you are ready to work with a positive and uplifting attitude.
Photo by asauriet | Adobe Stock
Follow Dress Code Guidelines
Adhere to the dress code provided by the organizers. This includes the specified undergarments, shoes, and any accessories. Properly following the dress code ensures a uniform and polished appearance on the runway. This is also in terms of any makeup provided, it should never be changed or altered by the model for any reason as it is the desired look from the designer for a reason. By following dress code guidelines, this ensures the transition of a seamless and consistent fashion show as desired by the organizers and designers involved.
Listen and Follow Instructions
Pay close attention during briefings and rehearsals. Be sure to follow instructions provided by the runway director, designers, and backstage crew. This ensures a synchronized and seamless performance on the catwalk as well as for any choreography that may be provided. The event organizers have a set vision for their show, and it is important that models do their job of upholding that vision for them by following directions to the best of their ability. A great model is sure to always follow directions!
Photo by Jade | Adobe Stock
Practice Runway Walk and Posing
Regularly practice your runway walk and poses to refine your technique. A confident and polished walk enhances the overall presentation, allowing you to showcase the designer's creations in the best possible light. After all, a runway model’s primary job is to showcase the garments being worn to the best of their ability. It is also a major part of their job to embody the energy and persona of whichever brand or designer they are representing. Maintaining good posture and pace is key to ensuring a killer runway walk, and as they say, practice makes perfect!
Maintain Professionalism Backstage
Backstage is a professional workspace. Avoid engaging in gossip or negative conversations. Focus on your role and responsibilities, fostering a positive and supportive atmosphere for all involved in the show. Any discussion in general should be at a minimum, simply for the fact that the audience may still be able to hear you depending on how far backstage you are. This is important because in the long run, being professional will only benefit you and work in your favor in the long run. Characteristics of a professional model includes that of working well with others, to be flexible and open to change, maintaining active listening skills and so many more.
Communicate Effectively
Effective communication is key! If you have concerns or questions, communicate them respectfully to the appropriate personnel. Clear communication ensures that everyone is on the same page, reducing the likelihood of misunderstandings and any mishaps with the fashion show. With less misunderstandings, that can allow for a seamless and perfect show to be put on as well. A fashion show is like a well oiled machine, with many moving parts all working together in order to ensure a flawless final result. However, if any of these parts are disrupted due to any misunderstandings or miscommunications, it becomes much more difficult to keep that teamwork going when someone has dropped the ball on something.
Show Appreciation
Express gratitude to the organizers, designers, and everyone involved in the production. A simple thank you goes a long way in building positive relationships and leaving a favorable impression for potential future collaborations. A designer or event organizer will be more likely to remember your face and or your name if you directly thank them after participating in their show. Send a sincere thank-you note or email to event organizers and fashion designers acknowledging their efforts and their hard work. With how competitive the modeling industry is, simple things like a “thank you”, having friendly facial expressions and a kind personality can take you far. Mention any aspects you found well-executed, showcasing your professionalism as well as positive attitude.
Rawpixel Ltd from Getty Images | Canva
Knowledge of modeling etiquette is crucial for a smooth and successful runway show. Models help make the show a success by being on time, ready, positive, respectful backstage, and following the dress code. Listening and following instructions, practicing runway skills, staying professional behind the scenes, and showing appreciation is also key to getting the most out of the experience. Strutting gracefully isn't just about the walk; it is about embodying professionalism and respect in every aspect of the modeling experience.
