Over the past few years the number of working models seems to have quadrupled. Models like Karlie Kloss are booking ad campaigns before they get their driver’s license while others continue to strut down the runway well into their forties. It’s a glamorous life- being a supermodel- but before they were sporting couture and sipping champagne with top designers, they were beginners. With a few polaroids in their books and a pair of heels in their bags, they did their best to navigate the highs and lows of the fashion and beauty business in order to make it big. So how did they do it? We were curious too, so we asked the people who helped them get there. Below are the words of wisdom that guided the careers of Coco Rocha, Lara Stone, and Bar Refaeli- straight from the agent’s mouth. Take notes and who knows, you may be well on your way to model stardom!
DAVID CUNNINGHAM- IMG Models
My general overall advice to new girls just starting out would be to try not to pin all your hopes on one particular job, or one particular show season. We’re in this for the long haul. Try to set long-term goals and use each day as a learning experience. If it doesn’t happen right away, you’re in great company. Just ask Lara Stone, Joan Smalls, Daria Werbowy, Carolyn Murphy, and the list goes on….
What do you say to a model who has the looks but is not necessarily comfortable in front of the camera (yet)?
A large part of modeling is acting. Sometimes it’s easier for the girls to relax if they feel they’re playing the part of someone else.
Do you encourage models to express their personal style? Or is more important for models to portray a specific image?
More than ever, I believe that people respond to authenticity these days. So much so-called “style” is manufactured, that when a model comes in with her own distinct sense of style, we encourage her to go with it. Anyway, you can tell when a model has been dressed by her agency. We’re all about building confidence, and the girls need to like what they’re wearing.
Do you have a specific story about a model who was struggling and not booking many jobs in the beginning, but has since become successful? What was the key to her success?
There are too many to name. Most of the “overnight success” stories in this business were years in the making. Experience and maturity can transform this year’s underdog into next year’s big success story.
SCOTT LIPPS- ONE management
I would say always trust your agent. Models who work hard and are passionate will have the most success. You have to be outgoing and engaging. Everyone gets one shot.
The market is very competitive and more and more models are starting to take control of their own career. They’ve done their homework and know all the photographers and stylists. They’re proactive. They use instagram, tumblr and twitter to get themselves out there and book jobs. While it’s good to be aggressive, you still need to be patient. Don’t rush your career.
MICKI SCHNEIDER- Wilhelmina
I think the most valuable advice I give to new and aspiring models is these two points:
~ Always have fun! Make sure this is something you enjoy doing because…
~ Modeling is a tough job – it takes a lot of work, patience and above all else: professionalism.
It can be tough for a young model to understand that at the beginning of a career – but I think any good agent will try to instill those two sides of the modeling coin.
