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Part 6 / Fashion Promotion
The fashion show budget usually determines
whether professional or amateur models are used.
For a smoother show, experienced models can
handle last-minute changes and confusion. They
are trained to remember directions and cues, be
at appointments on time, respect the apparel, and
present clothes in the best ways to the audience.
A very small show might have fi ve models, with
only one on the stage at a time. A medium show
might have 10 models, and a large show may
have 20 or more models, depending on how many
will share the stage at the same time.
Untrained models must be coached about
walking, timing, posing, turning, and facial
expressions. More models may be needed since
untrained models take longer to change their
outfi ts. They may not be of standard sizes, and
may be vocal about what they do or do not want
to wear. However, they can seem more believable
in the clothes, and have great drawing power by
attracting their friends and relatives.
After all models are selected for the show,
a model list is prepared. It includes all model’s
names, telephone numbers, and apparel sizes. It
should also list some substitute models in case a
show model must cancel at the last minute.
A retail fashion offi ce should create an ongoing
fi le of models used in the store’s shows. Index
cards should include the name, address, telephone
number, e-mail address, and sizes for each model.
Comments about performance and reliability help
with selecting models for future shows.
The Fittings and Lineup
The model order is the rotation of models
in the show. It is kept in approximately the same
order throughout the show, to give models the
maximum time to change their outfi ts between
appearances. It also helps them recognize who
they follow in the lineup. The lineup is the order
in which outfi ts will appear in the show. The
model order is coordinated into a tentative lineup
until it is fi nalized from the fi ttings and rehearsals.
Fittings are when the models try on the
merchandise to see how each garment looks
and fi ts. Advance preparation for the fi ttings
saves time for all involved. Merchandise is pulled
in the correct model sizes. Fitting supplies are
organized, including pencils, pins, and measuring
tapes. Scarves or hoods that cover makeup,
should also be included to protect garments.
Fashion show tags are needed to be attached
to garments until the show. Each tag includes
a brief garment description, category, model’s
name, and lineup number.
The lineup evolves as the model order is
coordinated with fi tting sheets. One fi tting sheet
is prepared per lineup number, 23-17. Then
copies are made and put in order of appearance
Fitting Sheet
Model (name) _______________________________________________ Lineup number ________________
Sizes: Dress ______________________ Shoe ______________________ Hosiery______________________
Garment description:
(style, color, name of designer/manufacturer, etc.)
Accessories:
(itemized description of shoes,
jewelry, belts, scarves, etc.)
Alterations needed:
(hem length, waist, etc.)
Additional information:
(other remarks about the outfi t, model, props, etc.)
23-17 A fi tting sheet is prepared for each outfi t to help with accessorizing, alterations,
commentary writing, and fi nalizing the lineup.