.png)
How to Prepare for Your First Runway Show: A Guide for New Models
Landing your first runway show is a huge achievement as a new model. The excitement of walking in front of an audience, wearing the latest designs, and working with top-tier designers and creatives is unmatched. But the preparation leading up to a runway show can feel a bit overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. Runway modeling demands precision, confidence, and a deep understanding of how to carry yourself on the catwalk.
Here’s everything you need to know to get runway-ready and make your debut unforgettable:
1. Practice Your Walk – It’s Everything
The runway walk is your most essential skill as a model. Designers choose models who can confidently showcase their garments, so mastering a strong, fluid walk is crucial. Your runway walk should be poised, graceful, and natural, while also reflecting the energy of the show—whether that’s fierce, playful, or elegant.
How to practice your walk:
Posture is key: Keep your shoulders back, chin up, and core engaged. Imagine there’s an invisible string pulling you upward.
Walk in a straight line: Place one foot directly in front of the other, like you’re walking on a tightrope. This helps create that elegant, confident stride.
Swing your arms naturally: Your arms should move fluidly by your sides without looking forced or stiff.
Find your rhythm: Practice walking to different beats of music. Each runway show has its own energy, so you need to be able to adapt your walk to match the pace.
Pro Tip: Record yourself walking and watch it back to spot any areas for improvement. The more you practice, the more natural your walk will feel on show day.
2. Know the Show’s Theme and Mood
Runway shows often follow a specific theme or mood that reflects the designer’s collection. Some shows are high-energy and edgy, while others are sophisticated and classic. Understanding the creative vision behind the collection will help you embody the right attitude when you’re walking.
Before the show, ask the designer or the show’s stylist for any notes about the overall vibe. Knowing whether they want a fierce, strong walk or a more relaxed, fluid movement will ensure your performance fits the designer’s vision.
Pro Tip: Watch past shows by the designer if possible. Pay attention to how previous models walked and the overall tone of the show—this will give you an idea of what’s expected.
3. Prepare Mentally and Physically
Runway shows can be intense and fast-paced, so it’s important to be mentally and physically prepared. Being in top shape physically will help you maintain your energy throughout the long hours of rehearsals, fittings, and the actual show. A well-balanced diet, regular exercise, and plenty of sleep in the days leading up to the show will keep you at your best.
Mental preparation is just as important. Nerves are natural, especially for a first-timer, but learning to manage them is key. Practice deep breathing or visualization techniques to stay calm and focused. Picture yourself walking the runway with confidence—it’ll help you get into the right mindset.
Pro Tip: Stay hydrated! Drink plenty of water in the days before the show to keep your skin looking fresh and your energy levels up.
4. Attend Fittings and Rehearsals
Fittings and rehearsals are non-negotiable for any runway show. Fittings allow the designer to tailor their clothes to your body perfectly, ensuring that every garment looks its best on the runway. Attend your fitting on time, and be cooperative with any adjustments. Rehearsals are just as important—they give you a chance to familiarize yourself with the stage, practice your walk, and get comfortable with the show’s timing.
Pro Tip: Pay close attention during rehearsals. Notice the key points of the runway, where you’ll need to pause for the cameras, and where to turn. Memorizing these details will help you avoid mistakes during the actual show.
5. Prepare Your Model Kit
While most runway shows have a team of stylists and makeup artists on hand, it’s a good idea to bring a few essentials with you in a “model kit” just in case. Being prepared shows professionalism and ensures you’re ready for any last-minute changes.
What to pack in your model kit:
Skin-tone seamless underwear and a strapless bra
Nude and black heels (unless shoes are provided)
Hair ties, bobby pins, and hair clips
Makeup wipes and a small face towel
Hydrating snacks and a water bottle
Any skin or makeup essentials you might need for touch-ups
Pro Tip: Avoid wearing heavy makeup or elaborate hairstyles before arriving at the show. The makeup and hair team will want a fresh canvas to work on, so show up clean-faced and with clean, untangled hair.
6. Stay Calm and Professional Backstage
Backstage before a runway show can be chaotic, with models, stylists, makeup artists, and designers all working to get everything ready. Stay calm and professional amidst the hustle. Follow instructions from the team quickly and politely, and be flexible when things change—because they will.
Remember, the energy you bring backstage matters. Being easy to work with and adaptable will make a great impression on the team, potentially leading to future opportunities.
Pro Tip: Bring headphones and relaxing music if you need to zone out and stay calm in the chaos. Deep breathing or light stretching can also help keep nerves at bay.
7. Focus When You Hit the Runway
The moment you step onto the runway, it’s all about confidence and focus. Keep your posture strong, make eye contact with the audience or camera when appropriate, and stay in the moment. Resist the temptation to rush—maintain a steady, purposeful walk. Remember, this is your moment to shine, and the designer is relying on you to showcase their work.
When you reach the end of the runway, pause for a brief moment. This gives the photographers a chance to capture their shots, and it’s your chance to make an impact. As you turn and walk back, keep the same energy and confidence throughout.
Pro Tip: If anything goes wrong—like a wardrobe malfunction or tripping—keep your composure and continue as if nothing happened. Confidence and professionalism are what the audience remembers.
8. After the Show: Thank the Team
Once the show wraps, take a moment to thank the designer, stylists, and production team. Showing appreciation for their hard work helps build positive relationships and leaves a lasting impression. Runway modeling is a small world, and being known as a professional, respectful model can lead to future bookings.
Pro Tip: If photos from the show become available, share them on your social media (with permission), and tag the designer, photographer, and other team members. This helps showcase your work and supports the creative team you collaborated with.
Final Thoughts
Your first runway show can be both exhilarating and nerve-wracking, but with the right preparation, you’ll be ready to take it in stride. From perfecting your walk to mentally preparing for the excitement and chaos of show day, each step you take builds your confidence and ability as a professional model.
Remember, runway modelling is about more than just walking—it’s about expressing the designer’s vision, connecting with the audience, and showcasing your unique style. So stay calm, stay confident, and enjoy the moment—you’ve earned it!
Comments