The Runway Walk
How to Develop a Killer Runway Walk
Developing a stellar “walk” can be one of the most difficult processes for young new models. It is hard to look like you were born wearing 5 inch heels, when most of you are starting your career at 14…I get it. I see women walking down the street in their mid 20’s and 30’s who still don’t know how to walk in heels! So don’t feel discouraged if it does not come naturally at first. In fact, walking the runway is one of the most unnatural ways of walking, it is going to feel funny in the beginning!
Here are my top tips, acquired from my years as a model booker, to help you OWN that runway! ;)
1. YOUR BODY: Shoulders down, tuck in your tush, and lead with your hips.
Your shoulders should be as still as possible and your arms should NOT be flopping around like loose noodles. Have control over your arms, but not to the point where they look stiff. They should effortlessly graze your hips as they barely swing side by side like like ribbons in the wind (too much?!). Your hips and legs should be slightly more forward than the rest of your body, as if they are leading and the rest of your body is following behind. And take wide steps! Not awkwardly wide, but just enough so that it feels a little unnatural. Remember, you are not walking down the street, you are walking down the RUNWAY! :)
2. YOUR ATTITUDE: Clients are not looking for a fierce Tyra Banks from Top Model esque walk…trust me!
Its not about you (unless you’re Heidi Klum), its about the clothing. However, a model on the runway should exude confidence without looking like she is trying too hard. Steady gaze, maybe a smirk or a smile depending on the designer…then pretend you are the Queen of England!!! Ninety percent of a killer walk is having a strong sense of self and tons of presence, without looking starved for attention or desperate. You must develop POISE, and truly believe that you are fabulous! Most high fashion clients these days want what I like to call “Coy Confidence”. Look it up.
Even though we are the only one’s present at every moment of our lives, the relationship you have with yourself can be the hardest one to cultivate. So start working on YOU, and you will be amazed at how much your presence will grow! :)
3. Practice: Not in the grocery store, but your hallway makes the perfect place!
Grab those 5 inch heels, crank up your ipod, and go! The more you walk, the more comfortable you will become with yourself. Place a mirror at the end of your hallway and experiment with different paces and expressions. Watch runway videos from the most recent shows for inspiration, maybe even have someone video tape your walk so you can evaluate it yourself.
Style.com has great videos of all the shows to watch for some direction. Good luck ladies and happy walking!
xo
Betsy
Image from Erdem Spring 2010 Ready to Wear
(Source: style.com)
