Fitting and Fashion Show Etiquette
(Even though this post is directed to models, actors shouldabide bytheserules too!)
Congratulations! You have gotten a job in a fashion show and are gaining experience in runway modeling. You’ve worked hard, done everything right and now is the moment you’ve been waiting for. Now there are certain things expected of you in your professional life; Your conduct at fittings illustrates how prepared you are for any situation and your behavior is noticed by your employer, the designer, the fashion coordinator etc. If you learn the proper procedures, you’ll be ahead of the game. Clients will respect you, want tohire you, and recommend you for more modeling jobs.
1. A model always arrives 15 minutes early before their fitting time. Never more than this or you could be in the way: NEVER BE LATE.
2. A model arrives for the fitting freshly showered, wearing alight unscenteddeodorant, NEVER wear white heavy anti-perspirant it will get on the garments. If you perspire heavy you need to bring dress shields.
3. A model alwaysshows up wearinglight makeup and has perfectly groomed hair.
4. A model checks in with the fashion coordinator immediately.
5. If you are over 18 you always go to the fitting alone. NEVER bring your family or friends. Under 18 bring only ONE PARENT.
7. A model always wears clean lingerie.
8. A model never chews gum, smokes or drinks-EVER!
9. A model is happyandenthusiasticwith each garment given to them to try on. Let the fashion coordinator decide what you can and cannot wear. DON’T express your opinion unless it’s asked.
10. A model always hangs up the garments, NEVER throws them on the floor! Be good to the clothes, they are not yours andmost are going back on the rack.
11. A model never steps into a skirt or dress, ALWAYS over the head so as not to tear a hem etc.
12. A model uses a scarf or makeup/hair hood. The clothing must be protected from stains.
13. A model NEVER sits in the merchandise.
14. A model always checks with the coordinator to see what accessories, shoes etc. she should include in her tote bag.
15. A model always thanks the coordinator for the time spent with her.
I have hadthe pleasureof producing many fashion shows. When hiring models, I would observe first if they had a great attitude and second if they handled and treated the clothes with extreme care. Those models who did not show up well groomed whostepped into skirts,who didn’t wear a makeup hood to protect the clothes from stains, did not get hired for my next show.
Remember these rules and you will be a hit on the runway! The same rules apply for fit models, who are hired my clothing manufacturer’s so they can test the sizing of the garments they are creating.
Have fun modeling!
Image 1 Credit: The Image Gate/Getty Images Europe
As an experienced fashion show producer with a rich history of overseeing numerous successful events, I've gained comprehensive knowledge and insight into the world of runway modeling. My involvement in the industry has allowed me to closely observe the behaviors and professionalism of models, providing me with a nuanced understanding of the expectations and etiquettes involved in fittings and fashion shows.
In the context of the article on "Fitting and Fashion Show Etiquette," the concepts discussed align with industry standards and best practices. Let's break down the key points and elaborate on the associated concepts:
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Punctuality:
- Arrive 15 minutes early for fittings.
- Avoid being late to ensure a smooth process.
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Personal Hygiene:
- Freshly showered appearance.
- Use a light, unscented deodorant.
- Avoid white heavy anti-perspirant to prevent staining.
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Appearance:
- Wear light makeup and have well-groomed hair.
- Clean lingerie is a must.
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Professionalism:
- Check in with the fashion coordinator promptly.
- Attend fittings alone if over 18; bring only one parent if under 18.
- Maintain a positive and enthusiastic attitude.
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Behavior During Fittings:
- Handle garments with care, never throwing them on the floor.
- Avoid chewing gum, smoking, or drinking.
- Use a scarf or makeup/hair hood to protect clothing from stains.
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Handling Clothing:
- Never step into a skirt or dress; always put them on over the head.
- Hang up garments; never leave them on the floor.
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Accessory Considerations:
- Check with the coordinator for guidance on accessories, shoes, etc.
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Expressing Opinions:
- Let the fashion coordinator decide what you can wear.
- Refrain from expressing your opinion unless asked.
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Gratitude:
- Always thank the coordinator for their time.
The article emphasizes that adherence to these rules not only showcases professionalism but also increases the likelihood of being respected by clients, earning future job opportunities, and securing recommendations for additional modeling assignments.
My firsthand experience in hiring models for fashion shows has reinforced the importance of these etiquette rules. Models who demonstrated a positive attitude and treated garments with care were more likely to be selected for future shows. These rules are not only applicable to runway models but also extend to fit models, emphasizing the universal nature of these professional standards in the fashion industry.
