How to become a professional runway model: 4 secrets to success

According to statistics from casting agencies and model training companies in Vietnam, over 70% of young people interested in catwalk modeling don't know where to start. Many still believe that good looks and a confident stride are all it takes to step onto the fashion runway. The reality is not that simple.

To become a professional catwalk model, you need to understand industry standards, hone your performance skills, build your personal brand, and prepare contingency plans for the future. The modeling profession is glamorous, but also demanding and can quickly weed out those who lack proper guidance.

This article will help you understand the true nature of catwalk modeling, determine if it's right for you, what you need to prepare, and how to sustain a long-term career – rather than just "trying it out." If you're looking for how to become a professional catwalk model in a practical way that suits the Vietnamese market, this is your starting point.

Tip 1: Essential Conditions to Become a Catwalk Model

Condition 1: Physical Standards for Catwalk Models You Need to Know

Understand height requirements before pursuing the career

• Most professional fashion runways require models to be between 1m73 and 1m83 tall.

• This is the common average in the international catwalk industry and a criterion many Vietnamese designers refer to.

• However, if you are shorter than the standard but have a confident demeanor, a serious work ethic, and excellent performance skills, you can still find opportunities in suitable niches.

Understand realistic weight standards

• The modeling industry doesn't have official weight regulations, but there are unspoken professional standards.

• Most international catwalk models maintain a weight of around 50–59 kg, depending on height and body proportion.

• The important thing is not the specific number of kilograms, but a lean, balanced physique suitable for the outfits being presented.

Understand plus-size catwalk modeling correctly

• Plus-size catwalk models typically wear clothing from size 8 to size 14 according to international standards.

• This is a rapidly growing segment, especially in shows that emphasize body diversity.

• If you don't have a traditional slender physique, plus-size modeling can still be a professional and sustainable path.

Important considerations when evaluating yourself

• Physical standards are only entry requirements, not a long-term determinant of success.

• To pursue a professional catwalk modeling career, you need to combine a suitable physique with catwalk skills, a positive work attitude, and market adaptability.

• Before investing seriously, honestly assess your body, find the right niche, and clearly define your direction from the start.

Condition 2: Suitable Age for Catwalk Modeling

Understand the standard starting age

• In the catwalk modeling industry, the common starting age is between 16 and 21 years old.

• This is the period when agencies and designers prioritize selection because the body is still easily shaped, suitable for intensive training and a packed show schedule.

Mandatory regulations for those under 18

• If you are under 18 years old, the modeling contract must include the signature of a parent or legal guardian.

• Depending on the locality or working market, you may also need a work permit for minors.

• This is an important factor to prepare early if you want to pursue a professional catwalk modeling career legally and safely.

Opportunities still exist for those over 21

• If you are over 21 but have a youthful appearance, excellent presence, and maintain a standard physique, you can still participate in catwalks in some segments.

• However, industry reality shows that opportunities significantly decrease after the age of 23, unless you are already well-known or have a very distinctive performance style.

Practical advice for newcomers to the profession

• Age is a factor that strongly affects long-term development opportunities, especially for runway models.

• If you are considering how to become a professional catwalk model, start as early as possible, and prepare thoroughly with skills, direction, and contingency plans for the future.

Condition 3: Catwalk Training for Beginners to Master the Runway

Start with the correct walking posture

• Keep your back straight, shoulders open, and neck tall; this is the foundation of a professional catwalk model's walk.

• Arms should hang naturally, not stiff but also not swinging too forcefully.

• When walking, take moderately long strides, placing one foot directly in front of the other to create a precise and clean catwalk line.

Practice a steady pace and control your rhythm

• Maintain a stable walking rhythm; don't rush or drag your feet.

• Always look straight ahead, focusing on the end of the runway to exude confidence and control the space.

• Practice in front of a mirror or record yourself to adjust your walk and presence.

Get used to high heels correctly

• Start with low, sturdy heels to get accustomed to balancing.

• Once stable, gradually increase the heel height to allow your body to adapt naturally.

• Only switch to stiletto heels when you have full control over your walk and don't lose your balance.

Understand that catwalk is a skill that must be practiced

• Catwalk is not an innate talent but a skill that requires continuous practice.

• Even the world's top models faced difficulties when they first started.

Real-world lessons from industry professionals

• Gigi Hadid once shared that she started off very poorly on the runway, but through practice, learning from her instructors, and gaining experience after each show, her skills improved significantly.

• This shows: if you are serious about pursuing a professional catwalk modeling career, view every practice session and every show as an opportunity to improve, not to compare yourself or get discouraged.

Actionable tips for beginners

• Dedicate time to catwalk practice every day, even if it's just 15–20 minutes.

• Prioritize mastering correct technique before thinking about posing or expressing personality.

• Perseverance is the decisive factor that will help you go the distance in the runway modeling profession.

Condition 4: Training Schedule for Sustainable Catwalk Model Physique

Maintain a regular training schedule

• Allocate about 60 minutes daily, at least 4 days a week for training.

• A stable training schedule helps maintain body shape, increase endurance, and prevent injuries during high-intensity catwalk performances.

Train all muscle groups to maintain an ideal physique

• Prioritize exercises for the legs, hips, back, abs, and shoulders – crucial muscle groups for runway models.

• Evenly training all muscle groups helps develop strong bones and toned muscles, leading to a more stable posture and catwalk stride.

• Avoid focusing on just one area as it can lead to body imbalance.

Incorporate cardio to boost endurance

• Add light to moderate cardio such as brisk walking, slow jogging, or cycling.

• Cardio helps improve heart health and respiratory stability, preventing fatigue when performing multiple catwalk sets.

Add yoga for flexibility and relaxation

• Yoga helps increase flexibility, improve posture, and reduce muscle tension after intense workouts.

• Stretching and breathing exercises also help models maintain calm and better control their bodies during performances.

Practical tips for newcomers to the profession

• No need for excessively heavy training; the key is correctness – consistency – sustainability.

• For those learning how to become a professional catwalk model, training is not just for beauty but also for long-term performance and avoiding premature burnout.

• If you feel pain or excessive fatigue, adjust the intensity instead of pushing yourself too hard.

Condition 5: Proper Nutrition for Maintaining Physique and Health

Prioritize fresh and nutrient-rich foods

• Focus on fresh foods; if possible, choose organic sources to limit preservatives.

• Incorporate all essential nutrient groups for catwalk models:

  • Plant protein: beans, nuts, etc., help you feel full longer and maintain muscle.

  • Complex carbohydrates: long-grain rice, barley, whole grains provide stable energy for training and shows.

  • Healthy fats: nuts, vegetable oils nourish the body without feeling heavy.

Add green vegetables to maintain a balanced physique

• Prioritize dark green leafy vegetables such as kale, spinach, and bok choy.

• Green vegetables help with good digestion, healthy skin, and a naturally trim figure, which is essential for professional catwalk models.

Be cautious when considering dieting

• If you are considering dieting or making significant dietary changes, consult a doctor or nutritionist first, even if you feel completely healthy.

• Each body has different needs; do not follow trendy or anecdotal diets.

Absolutely no skipping meals

• Skipping meals will not help you become a professional model; instead, it can lead to exhaustion, reduce your ability to train, and have long-term health consequences.

• For those learning how to become a professional catwalk model, proper eating is for long-term success, not for rapid weight loss in a short period.

Listen to your body and seek support when needed

• If you frequently worry excessively about eating or weight, seek professional advice as soon as possible.

• Taking care of your physical and mental health is always the most important foundation for pursuing a modeling career sustainably and safely.

Condition 6: Drink enough water to stay in shape and maintain catwalk performance

Condition 7: Skincare for Catwalk Models

Build healthy skin from daily habits

• A healthy diet and regular exercise significantly reduce common skin problems such as acne or dullness.

• For those pursuing a professional catwalk modeling career, stable skin is a major advantage during castings and performances.

Cleanse correctly according to skin type

• Oily, acne-prone skin:

  • Wash your face at least twice a day with an oil-controlling cleanser.

  • Avoid harsh scrubbing as it can irritate the skin and worsen acne.

• Dry skin:

  • Use a moisturizing cleanser, avoiding overly strong cleansing products.

  • Maintaining moisture helps skin look smoother and glow better under stage lights.

Protect skin from UV rays

• Apply sunscreen between 10 AM and 2 PM, when UV rays are strongest.

• Excessive UV exposure can lead to premature aging, wrinkles, directly affecting a catwalk model's professional image.

• This is a mandatory habit if you want to keep your skin looking young and maintain a long career.

Treat acne correctly

• For mild acne, you can apply a small amount of tea tree oil to reduce inflammation.

• Do not pick at pimples as this can lead to dark spots or scars, which are very difficult to conceal on stage.

If acne persists, seek professional help

• If acne repeatedly flares up or is difficult to control, consult a dermatologist for appropriate advice and treatment.

• For those learning how to become a professional catwalk model, early and correct skin treatment helps avoid long-term risks and maintains a stable image for cameras and designers.

Condition 8: Avoid stimulants for a sustainable catwalk career

Do not abuse alcohol

• Frequent alcohol consumption can damage the liver and reduce concentration.

• For those pursuing a catwalk modeling career, a clear mind and stable physical condition are essential for training, castings, and performances.

Say no to tobacco and nicotine

• Smoking causes many long-term consequences such as heart disease, lung damage, cancer, and premature aging.

• Dull skin, bad breath, and decreased physical stamina all directly affect a model's image on the runway.

Absolutely avoid strong stimulants

• Drugs like cocaine or heroin are extremely dangerous, can be highly addictive, and life-threatening.

• Even a single try can destroy a career and personal future.

Why this is especially important for models

• The catwalk profession demands physical appearance, health, and long-term mental stability.

• Abusing stimulants not only affects health but also damages credibility with management companies and designers.

Realistic perspective for new models

• If you are serious about becoming a professional catwalk model, consider avoiding stimulants a life principle, not a temporary choice.

• A clean, healthy, and alert body is the foundation for a long and sustainable career in the industry.

Tip 2: How to build a model's image and portfolio

Step 1: How to build a catwalk model portfolio

Invest in a professional portfolio from the start

• Find a photographer specializing in models to create a professional photoshoot.

• A basic portfolio should include:

  • Headshots

  • Profile shots

  • Full-body shots

  • Back shots

• These angles help management companies and casting directors assess body proportions and catwalk potential.

Choose simple, fitted clothing

• Wear plain t-shirts, fitted jeans, or streamlined pants in neutral colors.

• Avoid wearing too many layers or elaborate outfits, as they will hide your true physique, which agents and talent scouts need to see clearly.

• No need to follow trends; prioritize neatness and honesty with your body.

Prepare candid photos alongside professional shots

• In addition to the main portfolio, agents often want to see natural photos, without too much posing.

• These can be taken with a phone, with good lighting and a simple background.

• These photos help them assess your everyday demeanor and adaptability in real work situations.

Show a variety of facial expressions

• Take a few photos with a natural smile to create a friendly impression.

• Also try other expressions like serious, neutral, and sharp.

• This shows your ability to control your facial expressions, which is very important for professional catwalk models.

Practical advice for newcomers

• You don't need too many photos; what matters is that they are accurate, clear, and easy to evaluate.

• A neat, honest portfolio will be much more effective than an overly edited set of photos.

• If you are learning how to become a professional catwalk model, consider your portfolio as your first "ticket" into the profession.

Step 2: Choose the right modeling market

Understand why you need to choose a market from the beginning

• Most catwalk models only work effectively in 1-2 main markets, rather than pursuing too many.

• Each fashion market has different aesthetic tastes, physical standards, and performance styles, directly affecting the chances of getting shows.

Identify the characteristics of each market

• Some markets prioritize tall, thin, high fashion models.

• Others are more suitable for diverse body types, commercial or applied styles.

• Choosing the right market helps you progress faster and avoid early elimination.

Assess yourself before choosing a market

• Review your height, body proportions, face, and catwalk demeanor.

• Ask yourself: are you suited for high fashion runways, commercial work, or a specific niche?

• This is a very important step if you are serious about how to become a professional catwalk model.

Research markets using reliable sources

• Search online for information about fashion weeks, modeling agencies, and casting calls in each market.

• Read fashion magazines to observe the types of models currently in demand.

• Compare the images of active models with yourself to make a realistic choice.

Advice from model management experience

• Don't choose a market based on prestige; choose based on suitability.

• A "suitable" market that fits your niche will help you get shows, gain experience, and build your portfolio faster.

• Once established, you can always expand to larger markets later.

Step 3: How to apply to reputable modeling agencies

Research thoroughly before submitting your application

• Prioritize large and reputable modeling agencies such as Elite Model Management or Ford Models.

• Each agency has its own application requirements, from images and personal information to submission methods (online or in-person casting).

• If you don't follow the instructions correctly, your application can easily be rejected from the start, regardless of your potential.

Common application process

• Typically, you will apply as a general model, not immediately categorized for catwalks.

• After an overall assessment, the agency will decide if you are suitable to develop as a professional catwalk model.

• This is a standard process that helps agencies provide long-term direction rather than making hasty labels.

Have realistic expectations about the role of a manager

• Professional agents always prioritize the long-term interests of the model.

• For newcomers, they will:

  • Advise on diet, fitness, and fashion style

  • Introduce suitable stylists and photographers to build your image

  • Guide you on how to work, attend castings, and develop a sustainable career

• You should be treated as a professional partner, not a client buying a service.

Beware of scams in the modeling industry

• Always verify less-known agencies by searching for information online or checking with the Better Business Bureau.

• Stay away from places that:

  • Require upfront payment to sign a contract

  • Pressure you to buy modeling courses or mandatory photo packages

• In the legitimate modeling industry, agencies make money by getting you work, not from your pocket.

Practical advice for newcomers

• If you are pursuing how to become a professional catwalk model, remember:

  • Reputable agencies choose you for your potential, not for your fees

  • Moving slowly but correctly is much safer and more effective than rushing

• A right decision with the first agency can impact your entire career.

Step 4: Be authentic when meeting with modeling agencies

Don't try to "act" when meeting with agencies

• When meeting with a modeling agency, be yourself, true to your everyday personality and style.

• There's no need to dress or do makeup in a way you've never used in real life, because agents need to see your true self to assess your long-term potential.

• Conversely, if your everyday style is distinct, different, and stands out, don't hide it – that could be your strength.

Clothing should still be simple and fitted

• Regardless of your style, prioritize neat, body-hugging clothes.

• The goal is for the agent to clearly see your proportions, physique, and catwalk potential, not to impress with elaborate outfits.

• A plain t-shirt, streamlined pants, and simple shoes are safe and effective choices.

Professional attitude matters greatly

• How you speak, your punctuality, your ability to listen and respond will be evaluated by the agent as much as your appearance.

• Modeling agencies always want to work with individuals who are easy to collaborate with, serious, and professional.

• Whether you are new or experienced, the right attitude will help you be remembered positively.

Practical advice for newcomers

• In the modeling profession, authenticity saves a lot of time for both parties.

• If you are pursuing how to become a professional catwalk model, remember:

  • Agents choose people with long-term development potential

  • Authentic style + good attitude = a solid foundation for a long career

• Sometimes, "not trying too hard" is precisely the biggest advantage.

Step 5: Build relationships outside of the modeling agency

Tip 3: How to succeed in a modeling career

Step 1: Hire a lawyer to protect your modeling career

Why models should have their own lawyer

• Modeling contracts are often complex, with many long-term binding clauses.

• A lawyer helps you read carefully, clarify rights and obligations, and avoid signing unfavorable terms.

• For those pursuing a professional catwalk modeling career, this is an important layer of protection for a long-term career.

High cost but worthy value

• Hiring a lawyer can be expensive, especially for newcomers to the profession.

• However, this cost helps you avoid the risk of lost income, contract disputes, or exploitation.

• One wrong decision at the beginning can affect many years later.

How to choose a lawyer suitable for the modeling industry

• Find a lawyer with experience handling fashion and modeling contracts.

• Prioritize those with a proven track record in protecting models' rights.

• Avoid choosing lawyers who do not understand the specifics of the creative and entertainment industries.

Ask for experience from industry insiders

• Consult with experienced models for recommendations of trustworthy lawyers.

• These referrals are usually more practical and relevant to your needs than random searches.

Practical advice for newcomers

• Don't wait until a dispute arises to find a lawyer.

• If you are serious about pursuing a professional catwalk modeling career, view a lawyer as a partner who protects your career, not an unnecessary expense.

• Being proactive legally early on helps you focus on your expertise and long-term development with peace of mind.

Step 2: Read contracts carefully before signing

Do not sign anything without reading it carefully

• Always read the entire contract from beginning to end, including fine print and attached appendices.

• Some contracts may include clauses that force models to accept work that affects their health, personal values, or ethical boundaries.

• For those pursuing a professional catwalk modeling career, this is an essential step.

Be wary of ambiguous, complex language

• If the contract uses a lot of difficult legal jargon, don't guess or sign just to get it over with.

• The more ambiguous the language, the higher the risk for models, especially newcomers.

Have a lawyer review when needed

• If there are any terms you are unsure about, ask a lawyer to review the entire contract.

• A lawyer will help you:

  • Understand your rights and responsibilities

  • Identify unfavorable or unfair clauses

  • Propose suitable amendments

Actively negotiate terms

• You have the right to negotiate; you don't have to accept every term presented.

• If you feel uncomfortable, you can:

  • Discuss directly with your agent or scout

  • Or have your lawyer negotiate on your behalf

• Negotiating is normal in the industry, not an unprofessional act.

A realistic perspective for newcomers

• Don't let the excitement of an opportunity blind you to long-term risks.

• In modeling, one wrong signature can affect many years, while one careful inquiry can protect your entire career.

• If you are serious about a catwalk career, always remember: understanding before signing is a vital principle.

Step 3: Show confidence in the modeling environment

Dare to speak up and defend your personal views

• If someone pushes you to do something against your limits, values, or health, speak clearly and firmly.

• Confidence is not stubbornness, but knowing what you accept and what you refuse.

• This is a crucial skill for those pursuing a professional catwalk modeling career.

Communicate clearly and concisely

• Speak loudly and clearly, avoiding mumbling or speaking too softly, which makes it hard for others to hear.

• Avoid being roundabout; answer concisely but fully to show that you are a serious professional.

• Professional communication helps you earn more respect in the workplace.

Use body language to enhance credibility

• Maintain a straight back and open shoulders, whether standing to talk or sitting while waiting for a casting.

• Make eye contact when conversing to project confidence and trustworthiness.

• Body language often speaks louder than words, especially in the modeling industry.

Why confidence directly impacts your career

• Designers, agents, and teams always prefer working with people who are easy to communicate with, clear, and self-assured.

• A model who can confidently express themselves will:

  • Be less susceptible to exploitation

  • Be perceived as a serious professional

  • Have more opportunities for long-term growth

A realistic perspective for beginners

• Confidence doesn't have to be loud or showy.

• Simply by standing tall, speaking clearly, and knowing how to protect yourself, you've already made a good impression.

• On the journey to becoming a professional catwalk model, confidence is an indispensable soft skill.

Step 4: Persist to survive and thrive in the modeling profession

Accept competition and rejection

• The modeling profession is a highly competitive environment, and rejection during castings is a frequent occurrence.

• Even those with excellent physiques cannot fit all the requirements of every designer or brand.

• If you are pursuing a career as a professional catwalk model, view rejection as part of the job, not a personal failure.

Learn to deal with frank feedback

• You will hear direct, sometimes harsh, feedback, especially from agents or scouts.

• Even if you've won many beauty pageants, they might still criticize your appearance if you don't fit their specific "type".

• This reflects the job's needs, not your personal worth.

Don't let negative emotions take over

• Don't let criticism make you doubt yourself or lose motivation.

• Staying clear-headed helps you:

  • Distinguish between professional feedback and personal attacks

  • Focus on improving what can be improved

  • Dismiss inappropriate comments

Believe there will be work for your exact "type"

• In fashion, each project requires a different type of model.

• You might not be suitable today, but tomorrow there will be a show that needs your exact look and demeanor.

• A modeling career rarely progresses in a straight line; it's a process of accumulation.

A realistic perspective for beginners

• Persistence doesn't mean blindly enduring, but continuing when you understand the game.

• If you are truly serious about a catwalk career, be prepared to:

  • Be rejected many times

  • Continuously learn

  • Not give up too soon

• In this industry, those who stay long enough often have the furthest reach.

Step 5: Accept the unglamorous side of modeling

Understand the reality behind the lights

• Modeling isn't just about runways and glamour.

• To pursue a career as a professional catwalk model, you need to prepare for the less-discussed aspects.

Irregular hours and schedules

• Frequently working late and waking up early the next day to make it to practice, fittings, or shows.

• Schedules can change at the last minute, requiring you to be flexible and adapt quickly.

Dealing with last-minute changes

• A photoshoot or show can:

  • Change concepts

  • Be rescheduled

  • Change outfits or performance positions

• This happens very often and is part of the job, not a rare incident.

Protecting personal life

• Models need to maintain private boundaries; not everything can be shared.

• External curiosity can create pressure if you don't know how to control personal information.

Accept that "waiting is part of the job"

• You will spend a lot of time waiting: waiting for castings, waiting for your turn to perform, waiting for the crew to prepare.

• Patience and a professional attitude during waiting are always observed by agents and designers.

Adapting to travel and loneliness

• Frequent travel means you have to deal with:

  • Jet lag

  • Prolonged fatigue

  • The feeling of loneliness when working away from home

• This is a significant mental challenge, especially for newcomers to the profession.

A realistic perspective for beginners

• Accepting the difficult aspects of the profession doesn't mean being pessimistic, but preparing with the right mindset.

• If you understand these things from the beginning, you will:

  • Be less shocked when entering the profession

  • Proactively take care of your physical and mental health

  • Have a more stable long-term career

• The catwalk modeling profession not only requires appearance, but also endurance, discipline, and courage.

Tip 4: Contingency plan if not pursuing a modeling career

Step 1: Consider other paths within the modeling profession

Understand your body's limits and strengths

• You can adjust your weight to a reasonable level, but height is a factor that is almost impossible to change.

• This does not mean you are out of opportunities in the modeling profession. On the contrary, today's market is much more diverse.

Choose the right segment for your height

• If you are under 1m65 (5'5"), consider specializing as a petite model, showcasing clothes for smaller figures.

• This segment has stable demand and is suitable for many ready-to-wear brands.

Plus-size is a professional and realistic direction

• If you have an average to full figure, plus-size modeling is a very worthwhile option.

• More and more brands are seeking diverse body types that are closer to real consumers.

• This is not a "secondary option," but a distinct, clear, and sustainable development path.

Parts modeling – rarely noticed but very promising

• You can also model for:

  • Footwear

  • Makeup

  • Jewelry

• In these areas, agents and scouts focus on a specific body part such as hands, feet, lips, or face, rather than the entire physique.

The modern market expands opportunities for all body types

• Today's fashion industry is no longer confined to a single body standard.

• There is demand for many different types of models, as long as you:

  • Understand your strengths

  • Choose the right segment

  • Work professionally

A realistic perspective for beginners

• If you don't fit traditional catwalk modeling, don't give up too soon.

• The important thing in professional catwalk modeling and related branches is:

  • Don't try to force yourself into an unsuitable mold

  • Choose the right path for long-term success

• Sometimes, changing direction at the right time is the decision that helps you survive and thrive in the profession.

Step 2: Pursue academic studies alongside your modeling career

Why models should still go to college

• Modeling is often short-lived, and many models need to consider other paths by their mid-20s.

• Even when your career is going well, you still need a contingency plan to avoid being caught off guard later.

• For those pursuing a professional catwalk modeling career, education provides a foundation for long-term independence.

Don't wait until you're forced to change direction

• A common mistake is only thinking about education when your career stalls.

• Instead, start studying early, in parallel with performing or auditioning.

• This helps you:

  • Reduce pressure when modeling opportunities decrease

  • Have more career options in the future

Combine flexible study with your work schedule

• If you frequently perform or travel a lot, consider:

  • Discussing with an academic advisor to choose a suitable path

  • Considering online courses or distance learning programs

• Flexible learning helps you avoid sacrificing your current career for your future.

Choose a field of study with long-term value

• Prioritize fields that can support or expand your path later, such as:

  • Communications, marketing, fashion

  • Business, management

  • Foreign languages

• This knowledge can help you transition to other roles in the industry when you are no longer modeling on the catwalk.

Realistic perspective for newcomers

• Attending college is not a sign of a lack of confidence in modeling, but rather a long-term mindset.

• If you are serious about professional catwalk modeling, prepare for both scenarios:

  • When your career is thriving

  • And when you need to pivot to a new direction

• Being proactive today will help you be much more stable in the future.

Step 3: Expand career options within the fashion industry

Understand that modeling is not the only path

• The fashion industry is vast, and modeling is just one part of that ecosystem.

• If you love fashion but don't want (or can't) commit long-term to catwalks, there are still many practical and sustainable paths.

Fashion writing for wordsmiths

• If you have writing and analytical skills, consider studying journalism or communications.

• With the right foundation, you can:

  • Write for fashion magazines

  • Create in-depth content about trends, runways, and industry figures

• This work requires knowledge, experience, and perspective, regardless of appearance.

Fashion photography for visual talents

• If you love cameras and have an eye for aesthetics, studying photography and building a serious portfolio is a very promising path.

• Fashion photographers can have long-term, stable income if they have:

  • A unique style

  • A strong portfolio

  • The ability to work with models and the team

Fashion design for creative thinkers

• If you're good at drawing figures, understanding fabrics, and sewing, fashion design is a path worth considering.

• This work is suitable for those who:

  • Have an aesthetic sense

  • Are patient with techniques

  • Want to create products with their personal touch

Advantages of having been a model

• Modeling experience helps you:

  • Understand how clothes move on the body

  • Grasp the needs of runways and photoshoots

  • Communicate better with fashion teams

• This is a huge advantage if you transition to another role in the industry.

Long-term perspective

• Pursuing a professional catwalk modeling career does not mean there is only one path.

• Sustainable fashion professionals are those who prepare multiple options, leveraging current experience to open up a broader future.

• Sometimes, pivoting at the right time isn't giving up, but moving to a role that's a better fit for you.

Should you attend a modeling school?

Practical benefits of attending a modeling school

• Modeling schools can help you grasp fundamentals faster, especially if you're new to the industry.

• You will be guided on:

  • Posing for the camera

  • Catwalk techniques on the runway

  • How to identify and avoid scams in the industry

• For those looking for how to become a professional catwalk model, this can be a useful stepping stone if you choose the right school.

Beware of overly "attractive" advertisements

• Steer clear of schools that:

  • Promise "guaranteed employment after graduation"

  • Claim to have trained famous models who never actually studied there

• In the modeling industry, there are no shortcuts or absolute guarantees.

• Schools only provide skills; career opportunities depend on the market and on you.

View schooling as support, not a passport

• Modeling school cannot replace a reputable agency, professional attitude, and perseverance.

• If you decide to study, make sure to:

  • Research the instructors thoroughly

  • See what former students are doing

  • Assess whether the curriculum is practical and relevant

Prioritize health above all standards

• Absolutely do not ignore signs of eating disorders.

• If you are resorting to extreme measures to lose weight, that's a sign to stop and seek professional help.

• No job or runway is worth sacrificing your physical and mental health.

Realistic perspective for newcomers

• Attending modeling school can help you gain confidence, but it is not a mandatory path.

• What's important in professional catwalk modeling is:

  • Understanding the industry correctly

  • Selecting opportunities carefully

  • Protecting yourself from pressure and risks

• A good foundation always starts with correct knowledge and stable health.

References

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   a18375/plus-sized-models/
4. http://time.com/6654/
   age-restriction-laws-on-models-make-a-difference-at-fashion-week/
5. http://www.modelmayhem.com/education/modeling/
   2055-how-height-weight-and-age-influence-getting-signed-by-an-agency
6. http://style.time.com/2013/02/06/how-to-walk-like-a-model-in-four-easy-steps-qa-with-casting-director-natalie-joos/
7. http://www.cbsnews.com/news/chemicals-in-food-can-make-you-fat/
8. http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/
   in-depth/water/art-20044256
9. http://www.glamour.com/story/skin-care-secrets-models-know
10. http://www.marieclaire.com/fashion/advice/g740/how-to-model
11. http://www.newmodels.com/application.html
12. http://www.modelmanagement.com/modeling-advice/top-10-modeling-agencies/
13. https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0071-look-out-modeling-scams

Translator: Lesley Collins Tran.