Model and Author, Khairah Green shares her '‘show day’ prep routine.

Models are hangers. All they have to do is show up and look pretty, right? Technically yes, but there’s a little more involved in modeling than that, especially in preparation for an actual fashion show. 

So here’s the day’s routine of a model (me) on showday.

Typically, show day starts very early, so my day actually starts the night before. Models must make sure to get good rest so you don’t show up to work looking tired. That’s just not cute! 

The morning of a show usually starts around 6 or 7 am. I take a shower, wash my face to present a clean, bare face for make-up, pray there aren’t any new blemishes making a surprise appearance, and enjoy a light breakfast. I never know how long my day will be, so I eat something sustainable like granola and fruit that won’t have me feeling bloated or sluggish throughout the day.

Next, I check (and double check) my Model Bag to make sure I have everything I’ll need for the day before I head out. Your ‘Model Bag’ has a little bit of everything in it, from tape — boob and scotch — to a variety of shoes, hygiene products, extra garments and undergarments, and—most importantly, food!! A lot of times feeding the models isn’t prioritized on showday, and contrary to popular belief, models love to eat! So just in case the food is lacking, a model should always be stocked up on healthy snacks, and a little extra to share. 

Finally, it’s time to head to the location for hair, make-up and showtime prep. As soon as you walk through those doors, you are immediately immersed into a different world… and sometimes it’s complete chaos. There could be models in hair/makeup trying to get dressed, models on the floor stretching (yes, models should stretch, especially before a show), groups of models talking or scattered aimlessly, a model could even walk right past you with one shoe on and half their make-up done trying to find the bathroom, or models being sewn straight into their garment!

It’s SHOWTIME!!! This part flies by extremely fast. Between the hype and anticipation of the show itself, and the support and praises you get from the other models, time is forgotten and before you know it, the show’s over and you’re ready to do it all over again. On show day everyone’s trying to control their nerves— preparing in advance can help some relieve of the pre-show jitters. Remember, these are your people, and soon you will find your place in this blissful, and homey chaos. 

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