Priscilla of Boston fall/winter bridal show '08

A model walks the runway in the Priscilla of Boston '08 bridal show in New York.

A fashion show

I'm scheduled to walk in a local fashion show. This will be the first show I've done since leaving Seattle and the first one I've considered since the pregnancy... which is one reason last month was the first meeting/fitting I've been to.

Accepting the invitation to model for local designers was one thing, but being in my last trimester of carrying a 7 plus pound boy was another all together. (They contacted me from my portfolio on a modeling group's website.) It's five weeks since delivery and I'm back to pre-baby weight. Not quite pre-baby body, but it's getting closer.

I'm anxious to find out what Nashville is all about.

It's that time! Victoria's Secret Fashion Show

I can't wait to see what this year debuts as the leading girls of the runway hit the catwalk. This December, the show will air on CBS. Plan ahead and keep an eye on your local listings for date and time.

5th Annual Fashion First Runway Show~ Seattle

Mark your calendars for August 7th, when one of the largest and most exciting annual fashion shows will hit the Seattle catwalk. Browse offerings from local independent designers, vendors, and artists before getting the sneak peak at this season's hottest trends.

This will be the fifth show put on by Fashion First, which last year raised over $32,000 and benefited the Northwest Sarcoma Foundation. Crowds of hundreds anticipate this years event which promises to be even bigger.

Tickets start at $40 General Admission and can be found on the Website.

A Fashion Show- Celebrating Mothers

A stylist and friend of mine is putting this on...

Project Runway Finalist Showcases Line

Say what you will about reality TV, Alexandra Vidal who was a finalist on season one's Project Runway, is making a statement at Fashion Week 2008. Her line of evening gowns take a spin off of period garments mixed with her own touch of modern appeal.

What do you think? Is she out of her league or earning her right to rub elbows in New York?

Alexandra Vidal

Short Take from Fashion Week, New York

Take it from the runway fashionistas-- tights and hose are "in" this fall. From matallic sheen to ripped gothic threads, the legs were all the rage. Snagged, striped, or knit, more than one designer gave their own personal touch to revitalize this look.

Try wearing a pair with a layered jumper and ballet flats or skirt and heels.

Professionalism

One of the most important things when establishing yourself in the modeling industry is to be professional. Your reputation and talent mean nothing if you aren't able to hold a level of respect. Remember that this is a COMPETITIVE industry full of pretty faces. Designers have a myriad of girls hoping to get a job and they don't give second chances. Modeling is a business and models must learn to conduct themselves appropriately in the industry.
When marketing yourself as a model, it is important to remember the following tips:
- Always come to castings prepared.
This means dresssing appropriately for the casting, coming EARLY, having a resume and headshot with you, and keeping a contact number on hand and written directions/notes.
- Be a good communicator.
Do your best to show up to shoots early and ready with all your questions answered beforehand. Things do come up however, so it's important to cancel well in advance if you're not able to make an appointment. But do make the call. Be as honest and straightforward as you can. The worst thing you can do is keep a staff of makeup artists, hairdressers, and photographers waiting and wondering where you are. ALWAYS make the call.
- Be honest.
This seems so simple, but I'm putting it in as a reminder. Be honest with your abilities, credentials, and desires. Don't say you're ok with the nature of a shoot just to get a spot, then change the direction once you arrive.
- Take direction/Be flexible
Bring your confidence and humility. When at a fashion show, photo shoot, or casting call, you are hired to work for the client. Photographers and stylists are there working with you for the client, giving you the tools you need. Treat them as equals and you will be rewarded. Be as flexible and adventurous as possible. Take direction and try a new pose, hairstyle, or expression. You might find something that fits perfectly and you can use again in the future. Maybe a trick will impress someone later.
- Say 'Thank You'
Say it to your photographer, your stylists, the man who holds the door open for you on location-- Let them know you're grateful for the opportunities they're giving you.

These are just a few tips for aspiring and current models. It's amazing how simple they sound and how often you find someone making a crucial mistake in their conduct. Aspiring to be a professional is a rewarding challenge for those who can navigate their role in the fashion and advertising industries.

Victoria's Secret 2007

Heidi Klum was just one of the highlights this year, post baby no less.

Midnight Fashion Show

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I was asked last-minute to model Saturday for a low-key fashion show, coordinated by the same people who worked with Unzipped. The Seattle fashion scene, I've found, is tightly knit and brimming with opportunities for everyone to get their feet wet... at least to one degree or another. The community has been welcoming.

I walked for designer Erica Ray, who does an streetwear style with spray-painted trucker hats and urban-wear t-shirt designs. Lo-fi gallery was the venue for Midnight Market's Show, a funky little bar/music venue with a loft and two rooms, brick walls, and tight spaces that get you up close and personal with patrons.

I sipped wine, chatting up girls I've done shoots with, modeled with, and gotten to know through various fashion connections. It was like falling back into good times with familiar faces. We caught up, strutted our stuff, and made new contacts. A good night, despite the first frigid snowstorm of the year!

Via Runway

Visit Via Runway for hot trends and high fashions. Some notable designers include Marc Jacobs and Proenza Schouler.

The item I'm craving is Pictured: the Jewel Neck Coat with Fur, $3,625.00