Fashion

Through my work as an international fashion model for over thirteen years, I got introduced to the beautiful and messy world of the fast-paced fashion industry. I learned to understand the effort behind the „perfect picture“ and appreciate the creativity and soul needed before anything goes out to print.

Learnings

Being behind the scenes at a young age has been very rewarding.  
I have been able to gain impressions of advertising productions in other countries, build a network of new people from different backgrounds inside and outside the workplace and learn more about their cultures.

The skills required for this job (apart from the obvious genetic predisposition in terms of size or looks - thanks, mum and dad) are to be very agile and communicative, as you have to constantly adapt to new people, different clients and a foreign environment.

Scarf Design

During lockdown I started a scarf design project. Besides pottery, drawing and sewing this was one of the few design activities that kept me sane. Additionally, Paula and I have desigend Fitlhy Fox merchandise together. Soon these products will be avaible for purchase.

The mödel

The fashion modelling world often dazzles with its allure of haute couture and glittering events. Yet, behind the scenes, models face a different reality. Financial instability, objectification, and pressure to meet unattainable body standards are just a few challenges they encounter. Far from the glamorous photoshoots, models often grapple with loneliness, diminished self-esteem, and body dysmorphia amidst the nature of work and the demanding environment of castings.

The mission

To support models navigating these challenges, I developed a "model guide" in a tote bag—a tote bag is an essential accessory for practically every model, as it is crucial for carrying a portfolio and high heels. This tote contains a newsletter that delves into the critical issues and intriguing aspects of the contemporary fashion scene. It covers topics from navigating the myth of the "perfect size" to practical advice, including a model glossary.

The audience

Targeting primarily the newcomers from overseas who venture into the world of fashion week, "The Mödel" seeks to empower. Fashion week can be the most daunting time, and it's crucial for them that they find their footing. The goal is to bolster self-confidence, provide essential information, and new ideas among models. This guide is a step towards helping models position themselves in an industry where everything has to fit into a box.

Bibliography

_{Armstrong, H. and Stojmirovic, Z. (2011) Participate: Designing with User Generated Content.
Berger, J. (1972) Ways of Seeing. London: Penguin Books.
Fischli, P. and Weiss, D. (1987) The Way Things Go. [film] (No specific publication place or publisher provided).
Haraway, D. (1988) 'Situated Knowledges: The Science Question in Feminism and the Privilege of Partial Perspective', Feminist Studies, 14(3), pp.575-599.
Herndon, H. (2019) PROTO. [album].
Holzer, J. (1977-1979) Truisms. [LED signs, projections, and enigmatic truisms].
Kruger, B. (1981) Your Gaze Hits the Side of My Face. [mixed media].
Ono, Y. (1964) Cut Piece. [performance art] (No specific publication place or publisher provided).
Sherman, C. (1977-1918) Untitled Film Stills. [photography series].
Sontag, S. (1977) On Photography. New York: Farrar, Straus and Giroux.}