Of course to better prepare yourself for participating in such an event it is important to not only know what role you play as a model, but understand the other aspects that go into making a fashion show possible.
Before you can be on a catwalk, however, you first have to be cast in the fashion show itself. Whether you have an agent or are freelance, you'll have to attend the casting for the fashion show in question. Because it could have a large turnout of potential candidates it is a good idea to arrive to the casting location early in order to get in front of the line.
No two fashion shows are alike so make sure that you find out what you'll need to bring to the casting, if anything. Some castings for fashion shows require models to bring a headshot, resume and/or book (modeling portfolio). Others may only want a headshot with your contact info. Also find out what the dress code will be. If no such information is available or if the production company putting on the show and casting say that the dress code is open, do your best to find an outfit that shows off your natural shape and is easy to move around in.
High heels are a must for the women and the men should be well groomed. You may see some females wearing complicated, eyesore fashions but if you really want to be professional about it, wearing a form fitting dress (without a distracting pattern) or skinny jeans and a form fitting shirt or tank top with your heels will be more than enough to suffice. Men should stick to jeans, comfortable shoes (that are clean and not scuffed up) and a fitted shirt, unless told to dress otherwise. Either way, use your best judgment.
If there are a lot of people attending the casting you can expect to be there for a while. Be prepared to wait if necessary and bring something to help pass the time but won't be a distraction from what's going on. Since there is usually a sign in sheet or other form that needs to be filled out, it helps to have something to write with instead of wasting time tracking down a pen from someone.
Be attentive. Pay attention to whoever is in charge of the casting and follow their directions (remember, I'm always fond of saying that good models are those that can follow instructions!). Because it is a casting for a fashion show you will be required to walk. You may be in a room by yourself with the production company/personnel in charge of hiring the models or you might have to walk in front of the competition. Either way, do your best, show a lot of energy and strut as if your life depends on it!
Show a bit of attitude, smile when necessary and flirt a little with the casting team (no, not literally...you're trying to get hired for the show, not get their phone number). When I say "flirt" I mean do things like smile seductively, wink, throw them a look that says "I'm great and your show will be even better if I'm in it." Do what you feel makes you stand out from everyone else. It's hard to explain but if you've got "it", it will come out in your walk.
When the casting is over, be sure to thank the casting people if you have the opportunity. Aside from doing your runway walk, you may be asked a few brief questions by the casting folks. This could include how long you've been modeling, previous shows you've done (if any) and your availability for the rehearsals, fittings and the date of the show itself.
Hearing back about whether you made the cut or not could take a few days or longer, depending on when the fashion show is supposed to take place. The production company will more than likely email you with their decision or they may call you. If you do not hear back from them at all then unfortunately, that is a sign that you are not what they are looking for.
In some cases, production companies that put on fashion shows will keep models' information and profiles in their database and may contact those they feel would work well with other shows in the future. So even if you don't make the cut for one show you could end up being considered for another.
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