Navigating the Runway: Essential Posing Tips for Aspiring Models
By ALEXIA
Becoming a runway model means entering a world of elegance, style, and self-expression. As an eager and aspiring model, mastering the art of runway posing is essential for capturing the attention of designers, photographers, and the audience. This allows you to not only stand out among other models, but to highlight the couture you are wearing on the catwalk. In this guide, we will dive into essential posing tips to help you own the runway with skill and confidence.
Photo by Fashionstock.com | Dreamstime
Posture is Key
Posture sets the foundation for a striking runway presence. Remember to stand tall with your shoulders back, and keep your head straight and chin up. Engage your core muscles to maintain a poised and elegant posture. It might feel a bit stiff and unusual at first, but with practice, you will be able to perfect the flow and posture of your walk. Once you have a strong, upright stance, that will help you exude confidence and stand out in a sea of models, both at castings and shows.
Practice Fluid Transitions
Moving seamlessly on the runway from one pose to another is truly an art. Start practicing your transitions between poses with grace and fluidity. This will not only enhance the overall aesthetics of your runway walk, but also demonstrate your versatility as a model. At the end of the runway, be sure to pose for at least three seconds, one second per pose, before turning to walk away.
It’s important not to rush your walk and poses. This is your time to shine and show off your skills wearing a designer garment. Before the show starts, a show director may tell the models how many poses are allowed or encouraged and where to pose, as non-traditional runways may have several spots for photographers. When it’s your turn to walk, be sure to maintain a controlled and even tempo, making sure your strut and vibe match the music.
All of this will ensure you get your picture taken at the end of the runway while still maintaining the poses and timing needed. After all, the best runway walks are those which best convey the designer’s line while showing the audience how the garment fits the model’s body while in motion.
Eye Contact and Expression
Entice with the audience through your eyes. Maintain a steady gaze that exudes confidence and focus your eyes on a non-moving object in front of you. While it may be tempting to make eye contact with someone in the audience, it is best to hold your facial expression and avoid eye contact. At the end of the runway, try to show different facial expressions that convey the mood of the garment you're showcasing. Both a subtle smile or fierce gaze can add a dynamic element to your overall presentation.
Balance and Body Awareness
Develop a keen sense of balance, especially when wearing high heels but also while wearing flat shoes. It is always best to begin your walk with a strong and steady foundation, preferably with footwear that are comfortable yet fit the requirements of the designer. Ensure you walk confidently, placing one foot in front of the other, creating a smooth and rhythmic stride. Be aware of your body's movements and avoid looking stiff or awkward. At the end, be sure to square up and pivot back before turning to face the runway exit.
Photo by Jade ThaiCatwalk | Canva
Understand the Garment & Brand
Each outfit tells a story, and as a model, it is your job to bring that narrative to life. Understand the design and details of the garment you are wearing. Adjust your poses accordingly to highlight its unique features, whether it is a flowy gown or a structured suit. Even understanding the origin story behind the brand allows for a better way to display the clothing, as you will have an understanding of the brand’s purpose and overall vibe.
Natural Hand Placement
Avoid making awkward hand gestures by practicing natural and effortless hand placements, either in front of a mirror or with an experienced model. On the runway, you want to keep your fingers relaxed and slightly apart from each other. Arms must be down at your side, letting them swing naturally as you walk while keeping your hands as delicate and soft as possible. You never want to have your hands in a fist or your arms too stiff at your sides. Experiment with different hand placements to find what complements each outfit. Remember, your hands are an extension of your overall presentation.
Photo by Jade ThaiCatwalk | Canva
Master the Turn
Perfecting the runway turn is essential for showcasing the back of the garment. Practice a smooth and controlled turn at home to ensure you exude confidence at a fashion show. Typically, it is best to pivot using your left foot, gaze one last time toward the cameras, then turn your body to face the back of the runway and walk away. Even when walking back, ensure you maintain a focused gaze on a non-moving object, keeping your posture straight and chin up. This adds a touch of sophistication to your walk and allows everyone to appreciate the outfit from all angles.
Before the show starts, get an idea for where you need to stop to pose, remembering to slow down before you reach that spot. When you stop to pose, shift your weight from one foot to the other and give the audience and cameras a slightly different expression or angle.
Confidence in Movement
Confidence is the ultimate accessory. Believe in yourself and let it show in your movements. Walk with purpose and have conviction in every step. A confident model not only captures attention, but also leaves a lasting impression on the audience, photographers, designers and show directors. Be sure to take long, smooth strides with a steady pace as you walk. On the runway, it is most important to be smooth, graceful and light on your feet in order to maintain confidence and fierceness.
Mastering the art of the catwalk is an ongoing process that requires dedication and creativity. Practice truly makes perfect, especially with posture, hand placement and posing! As you continue to refine your runway skills, remember that authenticity and confidence are your greatest assets. Embrace your individuality, experiment with different styles, and let your unique personality shine with each garment. With these essential posing tips, you will be well on your way to making a memorable mark in the fashion world. Walk tall, walk proud, and own that runway!
Need more help on the runway? Read “An Essential Guide to Modeling Etiquette at Runway Shows For Beginners".
