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Modelling Q&A – Fashion on a budget

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Q – How did you start modelling?

A – I met Sarah Doukas from Storm Model Management when I was young and she kindly set up a meeting with her New Faces Department during one school holiday.   My mother and I chatted things over with them and I was placed on their Development programme. I started working part time at around 16 primarily working during school holidays.  I went full time when I was 18 although I am also doing an International Business and Management Degree at the same time. Storm nurtured me in so many ways and I am so grateful for the time that I spent with them, but change is good, right? I am now represented by Profile Model Management and I’m so excited for so many new opportunities.

Q -At what age did you start modelling and at what age would you recommend modelling?

A – Any reputable agency will want you to put your education first! I was always encouraged to only model during half terms and holidays as my education was most important and I’m so glad i did!   I think 16 is a good age to be doing a little part time as you are old enough to start gaining experience, pick up new skills, including working with a team and learn to express your view on what is acceptable to you as a model.  I think a good time to start your full time career is between the ages of 18-23, as you still have your whole life ahead of you. Models do tend to be young so your career may be time limited. This means a model may wish to attend university a little later (and not feel like an oldie).  Having had a prior experience may mean you will have a clearer idea of what you would like to pursue for the rest of your life!

Q – What height do you have to be to be a model And do you think being 5ft7 is too short for modelling?

A – I personally think it is all about your look, Kate moss is only around 5ft 6″ and has a career spanning over almost 30 years. Karlie Kloss is 6ft 2″ and is rocking every runway in sight. If you are able to work well in a team, have positive energy and don’t mind working long hours on your feet then go for it! I am 5ft 8″ which is relatively small in the modelling world, but your agency will know where to place you so that you can flourish! Smaller girls are more suited to Ecom (eg ASOS and New Look’s websites etc) and commercial work (TV Ads and hair campaigns), but if you are 6ft then edgy editorials and catwalk shows are your area to shine!

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Q – Do you have any tips for looking great in everyday photos?

A – SMILE and know your angles, everyone knows that there are different ways to hold your body and face to accentuate different parts, for better or worse. So practice in front of a mirror and see what you like the look of and remember those angles!

Q – What is your skin care regimen?

A – I have featured part of my skin care routine in my January favourites video, but it changes all the time. Depending on the weather and the condition of my skin for example if it is more dry or oily I will amend my routine accordingly.  My main staple is a facemask and I will do this most days before I apply my make up. They really help me brighten up my skin and also removes any dirt from my nights sleep. I know a daily face mask may be too much for some skins but it seems to work for me.

Q – Is modelling uncomfortable when you have your belly showing?

A – You need to know your own personal limits with regards to how much skin and what skin you are willing to show. If you don’t want to do something say no, it’s okay, just make sure your agency knows about it so there is no confusion!   Also, stick to it, some times there is a mis-communication and you might be asked to do something you don’t want to do but just say no and be strong! You don’t want to look back in 10-20 years and regret not saying no! In this electronic age images are going to be around forever.  There will always be a trace online that may or may not come back to haunt you.

Q – How do you stop yourself from getting in your head when things get tough?

A – This is a hard one as it’s hard to separate your work and personal life in any profession.  I think that especially in a job where you are judged on your looks and physique it can be particularly hard. I know my husband thinks I’m beautiful and my family and friends think I’m pretty cool so that’s what I try to think about instead! But you definitely need that support network as it can be taxing on your emotions!

Q – What has been your favourite shoot?

A – Probably my Disorder Magazine shoot as it was so much fun and the team were AWESOME! It does make such a difference when everyone gets on and there is so much creativity in the room! I have just done a rap video (don’t worry, I won’t be rapping) and it was great fun to be a part of a stylish creative video. The concept was really cool and I can’t wait to share it with you in the next few months.

Q – What do you like most about modelling?

A -Meeting so many creative and wonderful people, that all have one thing in common, getting the perfect shot! As before when everything is flowing and people are getting on it can crate some beautiful images that everyone is proud of!

Q -What is your workout regimen?

A – Modelling is more active that most people think.  I am all over London all the time.  When you are casting you are walking  around all day and often running for buses and tubes. It certainly gets your heart rate up!   When you are on set, you are standing pretty much all day in high heels so that gets your core working as the hours tick on.  I try and do yoga to tone and mat exercises which suits me but I know some girls that LOVE the gym and go every day. Many have amazing bodies!

Q What are your three favourite things about the industry

-No two days are ever the same.
-Meeting so many different, inspiring and creative people.
-Allows me to both do something I love whilst studying!

Sometimes funds don’t quite match up with the fashion aspirations you may have in your head, but with some savvy shopping and the determination to bag a bargain, you can achieve all! Here is an outfit I threw together to present this idea. All the items I am wearing are from Primark with the exception of the boots which are from Amazon.

Here are the details;
Skirt – Faux Suede Button Down Skirt £8
Top – Black Turtle Neck £3
Jacket – Black faux Leather Jacket £25
Tights – Black Denier 40 Tights £2.50
Boots – Faux Suede Thigh High Boots – Amazon £30

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