"I Want to be a Model!" - Guest Blogger Alyssa Dilts

I WANT TO BE A MODEL:  Week #2 

Knowing Your Niche as a Model

 

Last week, we discussed the “typical” requirements of high fashion models of print and runway.  The most “important” requirement is height with a range of 5’7” to 5’11” between the two divisions.  If you do not meet the height requirements for being a high fashion print or runway model, though, there are different areas that you could take advantage of in the modeling industry that are unknown (or overlooked) by the general public because they may not hold the glamour of high fashion.

 

The largest and most prominent area to look into outside of runway and high fashion is commercial print modeling.  The main difference between commercial print and high fashion print is that commercial print is product-based.  For every product there is a demographic that is targeted; different types of models will get more favorable responses among different demographics.  Not only is there a variety of heights that can be used, but age, size, and looks can also vary greatly.  As they appeal to different consumers, there are different attributes that clients look at when choosing commercial print models: character, lifestyle and girl/guy next door.

 

All three of these types fit a certain niche and represent the real world.

 

Character models play a role: A 65-year old male will be more likely to listen to medical advice from someone who looks like a stereotypical doctor rather than a chiseled male model.

Lifestyle models fit a demographic: The average mother of three probably won’t buy laundry detergent from a waif-thin 15-year old with smoky eyes and stiletto heels.

Girl/guy next door does not overpower the product: They are beautiful to look at without overshadowing the product and distracting the target demographic.

 

Although these are not as known and don’t typically come to mind when we think of “models”, they are just as important and present as a high fashion model and in much more demand.  A successful model is a versatile model.  In Chicago, a model can have a career as a high fashion model, a commercial model or even both!

 

Check back next week to find out how important researching modeling schools and conventions are before signing on the dotted line.

-Alyssa Dilts - Elite Model Management 

Leopard Fashion trends: Walking On The Wild Side

Everyone likes to spice up their wardrobe with some spots. Leopard fashions are being seen on the streets of Chicago from scarves and coats to a dose of trim.

Just as a note of caution, when wearing leopard prints, keep your selection to just one piece and never mix your animal prints together....no leopards with zebras, please!

Think Pink

This week I had to take another mammogram test after a concern over my last test in the past ten days. As I sat in my green robe, along with seven other anxious-looking women dressed with identical robes, I was hopeful that we would all receive good news. After close to four hours, repeated mammogram testing and an ultra-sound, the radiologist gave me the happy news that I didn't need to return until next year. While all this was extremely stressful, I couldn't help but acknowledge how lucky women are today to have all the latest equipment to determine early detection of breast cancer along with our own monthly self exams.

Hopefully one day, with continued research and awareness, we will find a cure. Please encourage all your female friends to get a mammogram.

Take care of yourselves; we deserve it.

Book of the Month: "American Fashion Accessories"

I can't live without Accessories!

I came across this amazing book called American Fashion Accessories, published by Assouline as I was walking through Neiman Marcus on Michigan Avenue. Candy Pratts, is the author and executive fashion director of Style.Com. She understands that a simple black dress can be boring or wonderful, depending on the accessories you add.

Do yourself a favor and check it out!

Don't Cry For Chicago

Yes, of course I am disappointed that Chicago lost the bid for the Olympics 2016 but I always believe it is important to embrace the positives. Many people throughout the world are now aware of the beauty of Chicago and will continue to visit us. Remember, we are always a city of great sportsmanship and class. Thus, we will pick ourselves up and congratulate the winner. We are all winners.

Cheerleader For the Chicago Olympics

OK - We all know that fashion is partially based on change and taking chances. Thus, I'm going to take a chance and predict that Chicago is going to get the 2016 Olympics before the announcement on Friday. I admit that initially I may not have been enthusiastic about this idea when I thought about all the seats on my 157 bus being occupied or that my taxes may be increased again. But, now I am totally past all those negatives and 100% in favor of the the Olympics in Chicago. I will jump up and shout with Chicago pride when the announcement is made. If, per chance we don't get the bid, it has still been a fun ride to embrace all the beauty in the city I love. 

What do you all think?  Let me know if you think Chicago will, or will not, get the 2016 Olympic bid.

In the Trenches

It's that perfect transition weather from summer to fall in Chicago. This is a signal to take out your favorite trench coat from the back of your closet. It seems that some Chicago women seek to embrace the Rolls Royce of trench coats, wearing Burberry and others use the weather to define their own signature for a trench coat.