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A Few Words About the Runway Walk

Aspiring runway models are perhaps the most intimidated when it comes to the runway walk. This post is to assure you that this part of the industry is not one that you should be losing sleep over. It goes without saying that you can't be a runway model if you don't know how to walk.

However, at the same time, we all have to start somewhere. No agency expects a new/inexperienced model to come into their offices with a walk the likes of Gisele Bundchen. So if you are on an agency hunt it is okay if you are not a master at this type of walking.

When you attend an open casting call for modeling agencies that represent runway models, they will ask you to walk for them. While this can be pretty scary for first timers, the agency isn't there to embarrass you or make fun of you (it's not a reality show!). Nor do they expect your walk to be dead on perfect, either. All agencies want to see is how your body moves naturally. They'll give you feedback and tell you what to improve on, if anything. That's it.

Should you get lucky enough to become signed, your new agency will work with you on your walk and mold you. So don't think that you have to have all the answers. Working with an agency is a partnership and it isn't realistic that a model with no runway experience would knock their walk out of the park on the first try.

If you are still uneasy about doing the runway walk, there is nothing wrong with practicing prior to interviewing with an agency or attending an open casting. There are tons of sites that give tips or instructions on how to do the runway walk but in my opinion, one of the best ways to learn this skill is by watching actual fashion shows.

Youtube among many other sites has tons of footage of various fashion shows that you can search for. As you watch these shows, observe how the models walk, their body language, facial expression, etc. You may notice that some models walk similarly while others may stand out by doing something slightly different. Then of course there is practicing at home. Always wear high heels when doing your walk, no exceptions. Be sure you're walking on a smooth surface, not carpet. Wood, concrete, etc. are ideal surfaces.

It is also important to note that not all fashion shows are the same so don't pressure yourself to try and master some routine. Once you get into the industry and start doing shows you'll be working with a choreographer or similar production director who will show you and the other models the layout of the catwalk, the number of stops/poses to do and any other special arrangements.

The bottom line: pursuing a runway career can be exciting and nerve wreaking but when it comes to the runway walk, don't pressure yourself to be a pro. Start at the beginning, get trained by your agency and work your way up.

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