The importance of a modelling comp card

Are you looking to break into modelling with no experience? If so, you need to do your research so you can get ahead and attract the attention of top modelling agencies. LUXE Models asks; what is a modelling composite card?

First impression

You can’t become a model without building a portfolio. If you utilise the services of professional photographers, stylists etc., you can create a portfolio which displays your versatility as a model. In other words, you can use it to show the best modelling agencies why you’d be an asset to their roster.

You can also use your portfolio pictures for your ‘modelling comp card.’ This is basically a business card that aspiring models give to agencies. When you put together your modelling comp card, you’ll want to make sure it impresses agents from the very first glance, so they’ll want to sign you.

Comp card

In the UK, modelling comp cards are generally two-sided and they have five images, including at least one head shot. We’d advise you to make sure you include a full-sized image, along with your name, on the front of your modelling comp card.

Save the remaining four images for the back of your comp card. The reverse-side should also feature your stats e.g. height and measurements, so agencies have the information they need to determine whether you’re right for the modelling work they do. It should also list your contact details, so an agency can get in touch if they want to work with you.

Handy tips

So how can you create a comp card that’ll help you launch a successful modelling career? We’d suggest you keep the following tips in mind when you put together your modelling comp card:

·        Choose your favourites: Most experts suggest that you save your favourite photos for your comp card and the best for the front. If you love these pictures, there’s a possibility that one of the top modelling agencies in the industry will too.

·        Show versatility: After using the front of the card to grab someone’s attention, utilise the back to illustrate your versatility as a model. The reverse of comp cards typically feature a model in a variety of poses and fashions, to show that they’re capable of adapting their look.

·        Keep it simple: If your pictures aren’t accurate, they won’t impress agencies. When putting together your comp card, opt for photos that haven’t been manipulated digitally through tools such as Instagram filters. If your comp card pictures aren’t natural, the agency may decide not to work with you after meeting you in person.

·        Think of extras: Everything about your comp card needs to impress. Think about the little details. Make sure that your information is printed out in an elegant, yet readable font. Also opt for high quality paper, to show agencies that you want to invest in your future as a model.

Impress agencies

In this business, first impressions carry a lot of weight. If you want to become a model, focus on creating an outstanding comp card. This will help you make a great impression on top modelling agencies and hopefully help you launch an amazing career. 

What to Expect at Paris Fashion Week

Paris is often considered the world’s premier fashion capital. This is the place where historic fashion icon Marie Antoinette lived and died, where legendary designer Coco Chanel invented the little black dress and where haute couture was born. Consequently, Paris Fashion Week is often regarded as the most significant of them all, regularly attracting the biggest names in the industry.

Paris Fashion Week

The latest Paris Fashion Week starts today and runs on for more than a week, ending on Wednesday 9^th March. If you want to get in on the action and see the latest trends literally as they descend onto the runways of France’s capital, you can watch live streams from Paris Fashion Week. You might want to check out the event’s schedule to see every designer who’s appearing. So which shows can’t you afford to miss?

Spectacular shows

Paris Fashion Week

As a fashion enthusiast, you may want to check out the household names – these brands always put on glittering spectacles when they come to Paris Fashion Week. In the first few days, you can catch shows from Lanvin (8pm Thursday 3^rd March), Issey Miyake and Christian Dior (12pm and 2.30pm Friday 4^th March). Meanwhile, iconic British designer Vivienne Westwood will be displaying her innovative collections at 4pm, Saturday 5^th March.

Things are only set to heat up towards the end of Paris Fashion Week. On Sunday you might want to tune into glamorous showcases from some of the world’s top designers including Balenciaga (11.30am), Celine (1pm) and Givenchy (8pm). Meanwhile in the last three days you can expect to see blockbuster shows from the best in fashion including Stella McCartney (10am Monday 7^th March), Chanel (10.30am, Tuesday 8^th March) and Louis Vitton (10am, Wednesday 9^th March).

Modelling masterclass

If you want to become a model, it's certainly a good idea to tune into Paris Fashion Week. Here, you’ll be able to see how things work at the pinnacle of the industry, as the world’s most illustrious designers gather to show everyone what will be the hottest style trends in autumn and winter 2016.

Of course, the most talented designers in the world are only going to hire the best models on the planet to display their creations. According to the Sun Daily, models set to walk the runways of Paris this time around are likely to include famous names like Gigi Hadid, Kendall Jenner, Lexi Boling and Julia Hafstrom. Watch these women work and they’ll show you how to succeed as a model when you have the eyes of the world on you!

Stay in the loop by following LUXE Models on Twitter.

Five memorable parts to London Fashion Week

London Fashion Week is never without its memorable moments, and this show was no different. From the live Burberry broadcast to the celebrity-endorsed Topshop collection, this year didn’t disappoint in style or substance. Here, LUXE Models consider the five most defining moments.

Mulberry is back

It’s been over two years since we saw a Mulberry collection on the runway and its return was most-welcome. New creative director, Johnny Coca has rejuvenated the handbag range, an incredibly important part of the Mulberry brand. He managed to blend the English heritage of the brand with a creative, forward-thinking look. The assortment of bags, alongside a range of outerwear items including some wool felt coats ensured a truly-British feel to the collection.

Christopher Kane’s tribute to his late mother

According to his sister Tammy, Christopher Kane’s mother used to embarrass them when picking them up from school in a plastic rain hat. They suffered the loss of their mother last year, and Christopher Kane’s show this year began with a salute to her – some tied-under-the-chin rain hats. Kane made his debut show in 2006 and, a decade on, continued to use some of the traits in this show. The line between reasonably affordable novelty and luxury was apparent throughout.

Burberry innovation

At the London Fashion Week, Burberry invited Jake Bugg to play for their collection and streamed their show live across the internet. There was an element of David Bowie across the collection too, with the inclusion of Edie Campbell to open the show. As if that’s not innovative enough, Burberry have now claimed that their next show at London Fashion Week will be the start of a new era with clothes set to become available from the moment the show finishes. 

McQueen is still king

The latest Alexander McQueen collection was delivered by eight-month pregnant Sarah Burton, and it was spun out of dreams. The collection had style and substance in abundance, starting with pocket watches, black coats, eyes and butterflies before some beautiful sculpted leather which was painted with flowers by specialist floral artists. McQueen’s tailoring was one of his best abilities, and the late designer’s collection retains that key value. The tenderness and the technical expertise that Burton delivered is commendable, in the place where Alexander McQueen belongs.

Front row of Topshop

Topshop’s casting campaigns are a good place to start when looking for the latest up-and-coming ‘It girls’ and this show was no difference. Suki and Immy Waterhouse, Lottie Moss, GiGi Hadid and Karlie Kloss have been brought into the fold for the brand which has stores in all four corners of the world. The show referenced some British inspiration including Anne Boleyn and the Bard himself. Scenes from A Winter’s Tale showed up on a mini dress, while there were returns for the Chelsea boot and the little lace party dress, to name a few. Keeping a finger on the pulse is something that Topshop take seriously, and it’s expected that they will follow Burberry with the instant-release of fashion from the next show. 

What to Expect at London Autumn/Winter Fashion Week 2016

Fashionistas rejoice! Today marks the beginning of London Fashion Week 2016 (LWF 2016) and we can’t wait to see what some of the hottest designers from around the world have in store for us this time. Here, LUXE Models looks into what you can expect from autumn/winter fashion in 2016.

Seeing the shows

LWF 2016 officially begins today, Friday 19^th February and runs until Tuesday 23^rd February. You’ve only got a few days to enjoy this rare showcase of upcoming trends and wonderful fashions. You can’t book tickets to see these shows, as they’re typically invite-only for industry insiders, buyers and fashion press.

Catching the stream

However, this year industry body the British Fashion Council have decided to stream the shows to the public. They’ve collaborated with Ocean Outdoor – who specialise in large-format digital billboards to stream footage of the runway shows in 60 outdoor locations.

These will be posted in a range of cities in the UK, from Edinburgh to Manchester to Birmingham. You can also catch an online stream of all the latest happenings at this magical fashion occasion!

Best shows

This begs the question, when will you be able to catch live streams of shows from the most talented fashion designers? Check out the event’s schedule for a full list of shows being held at London Autumn/Winter Fashion Week 2016.

We’d suggest you make time to check out the shows from JW Anderson (Saturday 4pm), House of Holland (Saturday 7pm) and Alexander McQueen (Sunday 7pm) to see what’s set to be hot in the world of fashion in late 2016.

Meanwhile, the highly anticipated Burberry show is scheduled for 1pm on Monday and you’ll want to check that out on live stream, as it’s rumoured to be a game-changer! We’ll be sharing the link on the LUXE Models Twitter so make sure you take a look early Monday afternoon to see what this celebrated fashion house has in store!

Fashion weekend

Meanwhile, if you actually want the live experience you could always check out London Fashion Weekend. Running from Thursday 25^th February – Sunday 28^th February, this is a showcase from four top designers. Tickets are open to anyone and they can be bought for as little as £20.

This year’s designers will be Emilia Wickstead, Mary Katrantzou, Temperley London and Holly Fulton. They’ll use the event as an opportunity to re-stage their runway shows from London Autumn/Winter Fashion Week 2016. Attendees will also be given the chance to shop at more than 150 fashion brands at exclusive prices, so this event is a must for all true fashion lovers!

Learn from the best

Are you looking to become a model? If so, learn from the best and make sure you catch live streams from London Autumn/Winter Fashion Week 2016. The men and women who’ll walk these runways are fashion modelling professionals – watching them will help you start a career in the industry! 

Adele models on front cover of Vogue

Adele is back making us all emotional again with her sensational third album, including hit single Hello, she’s also now trying her hand at some modelling.

After a lengthy break following her last album, the 27-year-old wowed many upon her return after losing more than 12 kilograms.

New look

The London-born singer has previously indicated her hatred for going to the gym, but her new slim figure allows her to not only maintain stamina for her 2016 tour, but also allows her to feel good about herself.

She previously featured on the front cover of Vogue in 2012 at the age of 24, and now she has returned following a strict diet and exercise programme, as well as a break from music to spend time with her family.

Speaking in her Vogue interview, she explained: “I was just shocked that all of a sudden I was 25! But actually I like myself more than ever. I feel so comfortable in my own skin. I really like how I look, I like who I am, I like everyone that I surround myself with. Obviously I have insecurities, but they don’t hold me back.”

Hiatus

Adele spent four years out of the spotlight, giving birth to son Angelo. But she has accepted that she missed the glamorous lifestyle and feared that she may struggle to replicate the success of her first album.

“I didn’t miss being in the spotlight, but I really missed that side of myself. I was happy to be lost in the wilderness for a while, but I was a bit frightened that I was never going to get back. I suppose there was lots riding on what to follow '21' up with. Once ‘Hello’ came out, I felt like I’d got nothing to prove. I’m just going to sing now because I want to, and I’ll make records when I want to and not because someone is forcing me to do it. Not that anyone ever has. I’d fire them if they tried!”

She’s determined to allow her son to have a normal life outside of the celebrity spotlight, though that may not definitely be possible.

 “We need to have some privacy. I think it’s really hard being a famous person’s child. What if he wants to smoke weed or drink underage, or what if he’s gay and doesn’t want to tell me, and then he’s photographed and that’s how I find out?”

Rejuvenated

But in the meantime, Adele will continue to surpass all of our expectations and excel in all fields that she tries her hand to, including modelling. She’s healthier than ever after giving up smoking in order to protect her voice and ensure she’s healthy for when her child grows up. She’s also found that she fits into a much lower size of clothes, which she says is an added bonus.

“Now I fit into normal, off-the-shelf clothes—which is a really big problem for me… I totally intend to share those dresses.” Adele appears in the latest edition of Vogue US in an in-depth interview about her career and future plans. It's due out this coming Tuesday.

LUXE Models has a service for plus size models, so if you have what it takes to break into modelling regardless of your size or shape, register with us for free today.

Who Were The World’s Top Fashion Models in 2015?

What does it take to be one of the top fashion models on the planet? Forbes recently released a list of the highest earning models of 2015, inspiring LUXE Models to consider what it takes to be a top world model.

Gisele Bundchen

Ever since she burst onto the scene in the late 90s, Brazilian model Gisele Bundchen has been wowing the fashion industry. She’s walked more runways, headed more campaigns and featured on more front covers than anyone else on this list. Her total career earnings equal $430 million and she’s made more money than any other model since 2002. Gisele shows no sign of slowing down; 2015 was a big year for the Brazilian and she earned $44 billion, making her the highest paid model of the year.

Cara Delevingne

This mysterious British beauty has fronted a number of campaigns for celebrated fashion houses such as Burberry, Mulberry and Dolce & Gabanna. She’s the ‘it’ girl of the fashion industry right now and has been on numerous covers including most notably American Vogue. Recently, she’s embarked on a successful acting career too. As a result in 2015, she earned an impressive $9 million, tying with Adriana Lima for the second-highest paid model of the year.

Adriana Lima

As we just mentioned, Brazilian style-queen Adrianna Lima managed to rake in $9 million in 2015. We’re not surprised, Lima’s made a name for herself in the industry. Over the years she’s been a Victoria’s Secret Angel, fronted campaigns for brands such as Maybelline, graced the covers of famous fashion magazines like Vogue and served as a runway model for Marc Jacobs, Ralph Lauren, Alexander McQueen and other gifted designers.

Doutzen Kroes

Fellow Victoria’s Secret Angel Doutzen Kroes came fourth on the list, earning a not too shabby $7.5 million last year. The Dutch powerhouse was a relative latecomer to the world of modelling, but shot into the stratosphere in 2013 when she fronted the cover of Vogue’s iconic September issue. Kroes has also featured in a number of fashion campaigns for design houses such as Gucci, Tommy Hilfiger, Versace and Valentino and engaged in a range of charity work throughout her successful career.

Natalia Vodianova

Last but not least, Russian model Natalia Vodianova managed to net around $7 million last year, thanks to lucrative fragrance deals with Guerlain and Calvin Klein. Nicknamed the ‘Supernova,’ Natalia has walked the runway for over 300 US and European designers including Givenchy, Prada, Chanel and Gucci. She’s also known for appearing on various fashion magazine covers like Elle.

Role models

If you’re wanting to become a model and you need someone to show you how it’s done, look no further than these five women. Over the course of their careers they’ve taken every opportunity thrown their way, allowing them to make huge earnings and establish themselves as some of the most sought after fashion models on earth. 

Child Modelling Laws in the UK

Modelling can change your child’s world. It’ll give them the chance to meet people from all walks of life, front exciting advertising campaigns, learn the modelling trade and save some money for the future. If you want to help your child break into the industry, LUXE Models would encourage you to remember that there are certain child employment laws to be followed.

Hours and pay

Let’s start with the basics. There are certain employment restrictions for children and one of them is the amount of hours they’re allowed to put in. A child model can’t work in school hours, before 7am or after 7pm, for more than one hour after school or for more than four hours without taking a one hour break. Also, child models are only allowed to work a maximum of 12 hours a week in term time and 25 hours a week in holiday time.

As a working model, your child can be paid but they aren’t entitled to the national minimum wage. When they’re aged 16-17 they must receive at least £3.87 per hour for their work and there are other payment issues you may need to consider. Basically, if you want your child to earn a good wage from modelling make sure you have the negotiating skills needed to get them the best contracts!

Licenses and supervision

If your child is younger than the school leaving age (generally 16) and they’re being paid for modelling assignments, they may need a child performance license. In this case, the person who’s in charge of running the event must get this license and they must apply for it from the child’s local council.

We should also note that child models must be supervised when working. Usually, this duty will fall to you as their parent or guardian. If it doesn’t, their supervisor can be a school teacher or even a home tutor. If none of these people are present your child must be supervised by a local council approved chaperone, so learn how someone can become a licensed chaperone for child performers if you cannot accompany them.

Do your research

Before you help your child enter the fast-paced world of modelling, do your research. Look at modelling laws and other issues that could affect your child when they’re out on assignment. Armed with this vital information, you’ll be able to ensure that your child has the leg up they need to really reap the many benefits of child modelling. 

Modelling Success Stories: Naomi Campbell

Welcome to our new LUXE Models success stories series, where we look at how some of the world’s most famous models became household names. First up, Naomi Campbell – the woman who changed the face of modelling forever.

Becoming a model

Naomi Campbell was born in Streatham, London. She had an extraordinarily international upbringing.  During her early years Naomi lived in global fashion centre Rome – where her mother worked as an exotic dancer. She was born for the stage; starting from age three she attended the Barbara Speake Stage School and at age ten, she studied ballet at the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts in London.

But becoming a model was always Naomi’s true destiny. According to her official website, Campbell caught her big break in the industry at the tender age of 15. She was scouted by Beth Boldt, the head of the Synchro Model Agency, while window-shopping in the famous Covent Garden district of London. Boldt signed Campbell and after that, the only way was up.

International supermodel

Naomi quickly shot into the stratosphere. Her big moment came in December 1987 when she appeared on the cover of British Vogue; the first black woman to do so since 1966. She then became the first black woman to appear on the cover of French Vogue in August 1988. One year later Campbell become the first black woman to front the cover of American Vogue’s prestigious September issue.

By the early 90s, Campbell had become one of the original five ‘supermodels.’ – an elite group models dubbed the ‘most famous of all time’ by the fashion industry. Her career has gone from strength to strength ever since. She has appeared on the cover of over 500 magazines and fronted campaigns for numerous fashion brands, including Burberry, Prada, Versace, Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana, Marc Jacobs and Louis Vuitton.

Brand Naomi

What’s amazing about Naomi is that she isn’t just a model – she’s turned herself into a lucrative brand. First, she’s established something of an acting career, putting her early training to good use. Over the years Campbell has appeared on TV programmes such as The Cosby Show and The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, as well as music videos such as Michael Jackson’s ‘In the Closet’ and Madonna’s ‘Erotica.’

By 1998 (when TIME Magazine declared the end of the ‘supermodel’ era), Campbell had mostly retired from the catwalk. But she kept herself busy with a number of projects. Naomi’s launched fragrances, continued doing print-work and forged a career in realty TV. Notably, she executive produced and served as a ‘supermodel coach’ on The Face, which on the US’ Oxygen Channel in 2012.

Game-changing model

Naomi Campbell serves as the ultimate modelling success story. Spotted at 15, she became one of the most famous models in the world, broke down racial barriers and turned herself into a recognisable brand – changing the face of the industry at every turn throughout her career. 

How to Pull Off ‘Galactic Blue’ Lips

Did you see Lupita Nyong’o at last month’s Star Wars: The Force Awakens London premier? Her lips looked stunning! If you want to emulate her fabulous look stick around, as LUXE Models explains how to pull off ‘galactic blue’ lips!

Makeup trend

Lily-Rose Depp, the daughter of celebrated actor Johnny Depp and French singer Vanessa Paradis, recently posed for the cover of Love Magazine, a fashion, style and culture publication. Lily-Rose’s breath-taking turn on the cover of Love confirmed that blue is the must-have make-up trend of 2016!

According to Cosmopolitan Magazine, every shade of blue, from brilliant cobalt to jean navy to metallic azure, is totally in right now. Lily-Rose’s take on the trend was rather extreme; she rocked vivid-blue 80s-style eye shadow, teaming it with yellows and oranges and topping the look off with gorgeous pink cheeks and lips. But you don’t have to go that extreme to get this trend right.

Galactic blue lips

Want someone to show you how to nail the blue make-up trend? Look no further than OSCAR winning actress Lupita Nyong’o. The 12 Years a Slave star recently featured in the blockbuster smash Star Wars: The Force Awakens and opted for blue make-up when she attended the film’s London premier in December 2015.

She didn’t go as far as Lily Rose-Depp. In honour of Star Wars, Lupita wore what can only be described as ‘Galactic blue lips.’ This oddly elegant shade of sapphire was mind-blowing, and her decision to pair it with statement gold-scarlet earrings and a black, long-sleeved dress was inspired. So how can you copy Lupita’s lips? Luckily for you the man behind the look, make-up artist Nick Barose, recently explained how he did it to Glamour Magazine.

Barose’s method

Commenting on his process, Barose said: “To create the perfect lip art with a galactic blue shade, you have to get creative. Sometimes you can actually mix in eye products too—whatever it takes to get the right colour. ” He started by prepping Lupita’s lips with balm and then, according to Barose, he “used [Lancôme] ‘Drama Liqui-pencil in Minuit’ to trace and fill in [her] lips to create a base colour.”

Continuing, Barose explained: “Next, with a lip brush I dabbed a bit of the balm on top of the colour. Last, I applied ‘Colour Design Eyeshade in Sapphire Lace,’ a metallic blue, in the centre of the lips to brighten and enhance the metallic effect." So basically to create Lupita’s ‘galactic blue’ lips, you need to prep your lips with balm, fill them with a deep blue eyeliner and then colour over the centre of your mouth with a metallic lapis eyeshadow, then top off with another layer of balm to finish!

Follow Lupita’s example

Here at LUXE Models, we’d suggest that if you’re wanting to wear ‘galactic blue’ lips at some point in 2016, you follow Lupita’s example on how to pull them off. Team this statement look with subtle clothes and accessories so your vibrant lips can shine! 

Five Tips for Wearing Pleated Skirts

Business news site Forbes recently revealed that pleats are set to be huge in 2016. The issue with this trend is that it can be hard to pull off pleats without looking a little preppy. Here comes LUXE Models to the rescue; below we’ve listed five tips you can use to rock a pleated skirt this year!

1. Show your waist

Cultivate a slimming look by emphasising the waistband of your pleated skirt. We’d suggest you go a little risqué in 2016 and team your pleated skirt with a modernised version of the 90s crop top – a look that screams cool, rebellious class!

2. Play with tops

Ask this important question before you don a pleated skirt; “what am I going to wear on top?” This style of skirt cuts the body off at the waist, giving you the chance to create an outfit with beautiful contrasts if you pick a good top to pair it with. Go nuts; patterns, prints, block-colours, long-sleeves, short-sleeves – they all go great with a pleated skirt!

3. Focus on footwear

Pleated skirts draw attention to your legs, giving you a fantastic chance to rock some killer footwear. If you want to avoid the preppy look you may want to refrain from wearing flats. Instead, team your pleated skirt with stilettos, edgy booties, feminine sandals, sleek pumps or 70s style heeled boots to create a supremely elegant look!

4. Think about your body

Choose the pleated skirt that’s most likely to flatter your figure. If you have a generous set of curves you might want to opt for a skirt made from light, flowy fabric to refrain from adding bulk to your waist. Meanwhile if you’ve got shorter legs, you may want to go with a pleated skirt that boasts a higher hemline, so you avoid cutting off your calves!

5. Refrain from overloading

Pleats make a bold statement, so you may want to resist overcrowding your outfit. This style of skirt suits just about any type of accessory but the key is to keep it simple. For example if you team your pleated skirt with a thin belt – a great way to show off your waist by the way, you might want to stay clear of statement jewellery.

Be creative with LUXE

Far from preppy, pleated skirts can provide you with the chance to create a cool, sophisticated look. Embrace your inner rock star and get a little creative when you decide to wear one. The right pleated skirt for your body-shape can make you look smoking hot if you team it with some mind-blowing accessories, beautiful footwear and a phenomenal top!