Getting booked for a runway show involves much more than just showing up on the event day. Runway modeling is a professional commitment that requires discipline, consistency, and preparation well before the show date.
Whether you’re walking for fashion shows in Lahore, Karachi, or Islamabad, proper preparation can make the difference between a smooth show experience and being dropped at the last minute. At Native Modeling Agency (also known as Lahore Modeling Agency), we guide models through every step of runway preparation to ensure professional performance.
Below is a complete runway show prep checklist for models in Pakistan.
Week of the Runway Show: What Models Should Do
Continue Your Fitness Routine
Regardless of your size or measurements, staying fit and healthy for your body type is essential. Consistent workouts help maintain posture, balance, and stamina—especially during long runway rehearsals and show days.
Fitness is about energy and confidence, not extreme dieting or overtraining.
Avoid Food Triggers
A balanced diet is important year-round, but it becomes even more critical during show week. Avoid foods that cause bloating, water retention, or discomfort.
Tip:
Avoid heavy dairy, overly salty food, and late-night junk meals. Focus on clean, nutritious meals that keep you energized—not crash dieting.
Cut Back on Alcohol
Fashion weeks and pre-show events often include parties, but alcohol can cause:
- Puffy face
- Dehydration
- Low energy levels
Even a small amount can affect how you look and feel on the runway the next day.
Practice Your Runway Walk
Never stop practicing once you get booked. Designers can—and do—drop models hours before a show if they feel the walk is not strong enough.
Practice regularly and rotate between:
- Heels
- Flats
- Boots
This ensures comfort with any footwear requested by the designer.
Day Before the Runway Show
Wash Your Hair Properly
Wash your hair the morning before the show, not the night before. This ensures your hair is:
- Clean
- Easy to style
- Free from heavy product buildup
Stylists prefer hair that is not overly fresh or greasy.
Remove All Nail Polish
Designers usually want:
- Clean nails
- Or sheer, natural tones
Avoid white, pink, or French tips unless instructed otherwise.
Pro Tip:
Apply a clear base coat to prevent dark polish from staining your nails—especially helpful if you’re walking multiple shows.
Focus on Skincare
Stick to your regular skincare routine and increase hydration using masks and moisturizers.
⚠️ Important:
Never try a new skincare product the day before a runway show. A reaction could ruin your skin overnight.
Hair Removal & Grooming
Complete your grooming routine the night before:
- Legs
- Arms
- Bikini line (even if unsure of outfits)
If waxing, do it at least two days before to allow irritation to settle.
Confirm Show Location
Know exactly:
- Where the venue is
- How long travel takes
- Where to park
- Where to check in
In cities like Lahore, traffic delays are common—always leave 20–30 minutes early. Being late can cost you future bookings.
Pack Your Model Bag
Prepare essentials like:
- Nude undergarments
- Heels
- Snacks
- Water
- Safety pins
- Makeup wipes
(Refer to your agency’s runway model bag checklist if available.)
Day of the Runway Show
Arrive Makeup-Free
Unless instructed otherwise, arrive with:
- Clean face
- Moisturizer only
This allows makeup artists full creative control.
Keep Your Hair Natural
Do not straighten or curl your hair unless directed. Pre-styled hair may not match the designer’s vision and can’t always be restyled.
Dress Smart & Comfortable
Wear loose, clean clothing to avoid seam lines—but never pajamas.
Best option:
A button-up shirt—easy to remove after hair and makeup without ruining the look.
Wear Nude Seamless Undergarments
Nude undergarments are safest unless specified otherwise. Make sure they are seamless to avoid visible lines.
Be Present & Professional
Avoid staying on your phone. Be attentive during:
- Hair & makeup
- Rehearsals
- Backstage instructions
Use this time to connect with stylists, designers, and crew.
Network Backstage
Fashion shows are powerful networking opportunities. Be polite, confident, and approachable—your next booking may come from a backstage introduction.
Eat & Stay Energized
Food is not always provided. Carry light snacks to maintain energy throughout long show hours.
Enjoy the Runway Experience
All the preparation leads to this moment. Walk with confidence, stay professional, and enjoy the experience. Passion and presence always show on the runway.
At Native Modeling Agency Lahore, we believe preparation is the foundation of a successful runway career.