How Can I Become a Model for a Department Store?

Models participate in department store fashion shows.

Models just getting started in the modeling industry may have some difficulty landing high-profile gigs for major fashion shows, magazine spreads or TV ads. Starting locally makes sense for budding models interested in establishing or polishing their skills. Department stores make ideal venues since they frequently hire models for seasonal fashion shows, catalogs, mail inserts and product demonstrations. Becoming a model for a department store takes time, patience and motivation, but it's possible with the right work ethic.

Things You'll Need

• Modeling portfolio
• Website
• Telephone

Instructions

1. Visit local department stores to get a feel for their aesthetic. Some department stores exude classic elegance, while trendier venues may feature modern music and athletic gear. Understanding the differences among businesses will help you target which establishments seem more likely to embrace your particular look.

2. Assemble professional modeling packages. Include a cover letter, resume, and photography portfolio containing simple shots showcasing your face, figure and modeling talent. If you're sending via snail-mail, send an email note to the department store fashion consultant, event coordinator or human resources director to alert them that your materials should be arriving.

3. Attend casting calls and auditions. Department stores may run notices about casting calls and auditions for upcoming modeling positions in the local newspaper, online modeling networks or through flyers at area modeling schools. Always arrive on time, wearing simple, unbranded clothing and be respectful to everyone at the event. Professional attitudes help you stand out from the pack.

4. Ask to work at the department store's special events. Department stores' close relationship with fashion engenders plenty of opportunities for showcasing modeling talent, even if it's not specifically modeling. For example, the store may hire greeters to offer samples of a new blockbuster fragrance. Interacting with customers helps show off your charisma and fashion knowledge.

5. Read the fine print. To become a model for a department store, be careful to fully read and understand contracts before signing the dotted line. Contracts should outline job responsibilities, specify pay rates and the limits of a department store's use of your modeling images. When possible, ask a legal expert or trusted friend to read the contract before signing.

Tips & Warnings

• Department stores sometimes volunteer to participate in charity events to help fundraise in the community. Volunteering to participate in a charity fashion show may lead to future paying gigs after advertising executives or marketing honchos for the store observe your talent and professionalism.

• Don't try to save money by referring prospective department store clients to your social networking profile. This looks amateurish. Instead, demonstrate that you've invested time and money in your modeling career by referring potential clients to your own website. It doesn't have to be fancy or high-tech; just make sure you have professional-quality photos to showcase your attributes.

• Avoid submitting high-resolution photos to department store contacts in the hopes of scoring a modeling gig. These clog up valuable inbox memory, so recipients may just delete the heavily loaded email without reading it. Instead, include lower-resolution photos or links to your website.

References

• How To Become A Model: Teen Modeling Jobs for Small Stores
• How To Become A Model: How to Become a Sears Model
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Models
• Modeling USA: Modeling Tips