Lessons Learned from a Fashion Show

The Casting

Chantelle (in Sister Underwear)
proving petite models
can do runway too


Chantelle in Peros

The goal was to narrow the field from 50 to 20 in a few hours, with models being screened on a variety of factors.

Being attractive was obviously important, but so was variety. Sister Underwear, for example, designs underwear for various body types, and wasn't only interested in tall, thin models. One of the models getting a lot of work was Chantelle (Next Models), a very petite model with a killer walk.

Mark Peros told modelresource he was looking primarily for girls that looked like they belonged in his clothes. According to Mark, the right mix was "body type, presence, confidence and vibe."

Modelresource asked one of the models how he prepares for castings. Kyle Wilson, 25, has been modelling for more than six years, the last couple with Next in Toronto. He's worked in Italy and France, and has a healthy perspective on things. "I try to go into castings knowing I won't get it. If I do, bonus." Despite his international experience Kyle doesn't rely on modelling income to be steady. Says Kyle, "When [castings] come, they come."

What Models Need to Know about Castings

Britt (Elmer Olsen Models)
wisely taking time
to talk to the people
making the decisions.

Know how to walk. Many of the models looked like they had no idea -- these models didn't get past the castings. Even if you have never done runway before I can't stress enough the importance of knowing how to walk. When a model comes into a casting they have to know how to walk for sportswear, formal AND street. They have to know how to look polished, how to look casual and how to take charge on stage. If you're a model and you don't know, ask your agency for help.

Bring comp cards. It's really difficult to book models if you don't know which agency they're with, and considering 50 models showed up to this casting there was no way the designers were going to remember everybody's representation.

Girls: bring heels. Although 69 Vintage (where the casting took place) had heels in stock, most times models wouldn't be so lucky. For a full list of what you should bring, please refer to our list of contents for an ideal Model's Tote Bag.

Interact with the people doing the casting. I realize it can be uncomfortable putting yourself on display but the people doing the hiring want to know you're someone with whom they can work. Personality and professionalism go a long way. Show the designers you're pleasant to be around. Give them a reason to believe you care about the success of their show.

ABOUT THE SHOWTHE FITTINGS