To Smile or Not To Smile on the Runway? - John Casablancas (2024)

FAQs

Why do models not smile on the catwalk? ›

Back in 2007, when Reuters investigated this topic, the head of France's fashion federation clearly explained the models' lack of emotions: “When they smile you look at their smile. When they don't smile, you look at the dresses. It's probably better for the dresses.” It might be one of the explanations.

In fact, designers do sometimes ask their models to smile. Giorgio Armani did it this season for his Emporio Armani show. Sonia Rykiel used to do it all the time. She even had her models skip down the catwalk to add extra zest.

While some modeling jobs will require more serious or somber facial expressions, commercial jobs often have a lighter atmosphere that calls for a smile. As you'll see in this video, it's important for models to practice smiling in the mirror before taking modeling portraits.

Yes, that's one of the expectations of the model. It turns out that in the world of modeling smiling is often encouraged! Why? Because it helps create an image thats both positive and attractive.

Many designers believe their clothing looks better on skinnier models, so they send samples for catwalks and photo sessions that can only be worn by women who fit into a small size. When showing off their newest fashions, designers obviously want their outfits to look as beautiful as possible.

When it comes to facial appeal, women stated that they find a person's smile to be at most responsible for attractiveness. For men, a smile ranked just as high and important when gauging what they deem most alluring.

So by not smiling, the models show that their class is very different from the audience sitting in front. Not smiling also shows that a person is not allowing her emotions to dominate her. According to the Storypick website, one of the reasons for not smiling on a ramp walk is that models always carry new trends.

Models Need Great Teeth

Unfortunately, models with bad teeth may be judged more harshly because they are attempting to start a career in a looks-based field. And while models with imperfect teeth have achieved success – like Kate Moss and Lara Stone – they are rare exceptions.

Do you have to be beautiful to be a model? Absolutely not! In fact, many beautiful women don't film well, so they are turned down. It is all based on bone structure and angles and how the camera sees you, if you aren't a ramp model.

Remember, getting into modeling doesn't just mean being tall and thin with perfect posture. It means identifying and playing to your own strengths, looking for the type of work that's right for you.

Why do models pout? ›

“[Not smiling] communicates a certain prestige for the model. She has achieved the status where she doesn't have to smile.” There have of course been times when fashion has shown its jollier side.

The taller the person, the easier they are to see on a catwalk or even while walking through a crowd. They're better at drawing attention from a distance, successfully attracting the audience to themselves and their products. Shorter people, it's believed, are simply more likely to be overlooked.

A strong and confident walk that looks easy is a necessity for landing that first high-fashion runway gig—and getting rebooked. Since runway models need to take exaggerated strides while maintaining a natural rhythm, it's all about making an impact with smooth movements that showcase the garments.

How much does a Runway Model make? As of May 4, 2024, the average hourly pay for a Runway Model in the United States is $45.71 an hour.

Clients and photographers hold a go-see to get to know models for future projects. This usually involves inviting the model to meet, either at the client or photographer's studio, or at the model agency, and going through their book to see their work, and seeing the model walking as they would on a catwalk.

Sporting blank expressions helps accentuate fashion pieces better by directing viewers' focus toward those items exclusively! On top of that, donning an emotionless but confident look portrays professionalism—a trait widely appreciated in today's competitive fashion world!