Kourtney Vandervelde

July 21, 2007

Kourtney Vandervelde Things are really starting to wind down in Paris, each day with fewer castings. The fashion industry here closes in August and clients are starting to get ready for their vacation, which means slowly one by one the models are making their way home.

One thing that has been completly opposite here from back home is the weather. All I find myself wanting to buy is sweaters to stay warm. And my umbrella has become one of my best friends since it has rained everyday for the past three weeks.

It's weird to start to get ready to go home from somewhere I've been staying for quite sometime. Having to say goodbye to friends and co-workers, not knowing when I'll see them next. Looking back at my trip I feel it's been such an amazing experience, and I would definitely suggest to other models to take the opportunity to travel if it arises. Don't push for it to happen, because this is an industry that takes time and patience. If it's meant to happen I promise you it will!!

Since arriving I can say my opinion on this market has done a complete turn around. I used to believe the majority of models in Paris were really tall and skinny, working for high-end editorials and runway. But I've noticed really any type of model can find work in Paris, doing catalogue, commercials, editorial, runway, show room, etc. The only downside is with having such a large number of models I've seen some girls not work at all, and some work every week. You need to not get discouraged, and remember the massive amount of girls. It also all depends on the model.

If a model is fortunate enough to have a laptop I feel it's amazing to bring on a trip. The internet made me feel so much closer to home, being able to email everyone. Also being able to view Modelresource, keeping myself up to date with my home industry.

After a lot of packing and a long flight I'm home now. Not for long, I promise you that, but I'll be sure to keep everyone up to date.

Kourtney Vandervelde is a NAM model.