A couple of months back, I took up a studio photography package to put my posing skills to test. To be honest, I wasn’t completely satisfied with the results since I only managed to find a handful of pictures that I like out of the hundreds that we took! Anyway, since it’s only my second professional shoot, it’s forgivable. I was allowed to choose 2 outfits for the shoot so I chose one wearing the basic white singlet and jeans, while another wearing a short blue dress. Showed the pictures to some of my friends and most of the feedback I received said that I looked better with a smile. Looks like I have got to put in more effort to look better when I’m serious. Here are some of the pictures taken from the shoot!

Pic #1

Pic #2

Pic #3

Pic #4

Pic #5

Pic #6

Pic #7

Constructive comments much appreciated!

In a couple of hours, Christmas would be over, and we’d be looking forward to the New Year! How time flies when one is having fun, yes? How was your Christmas celebration? Saucer and I went shopping on Christmas day morning (!!) to buy ingredients for dinner. By the time we were done, it was already 4pm and we’re exhausted! Tired as I was, I persevered, for I had plenty to cook on the menu! Luckily everything went well and after 2.5 hours of cooking, dinner of pumpkin soup, salad with bacon and pork sausages, aglio olio spaghetti with salmon, shrimp and squid ring, and dessert of chocolate cake was ready! Unfortunately, in the midst of all the cooking, I was too exhausted and forgot to snap pictures of the food, except for the chocolate cake.

My homemade chocolate cake

That aside, I was looking back at my old pictures recently and I realized that in most of the pictures, I was wearing shorts! I guess shorts are ever so versatile, so comfortable and so cooling in the hot tropical weather of our country. However, one thing about wearing shorts is when that time of the month is here, I’d feel extremely self-conscious with my bulky sanitary pads. It gets worse when I have to go for photo shoot that requires me to wear short skirt! I have to be very careful with my posing to make sure that my pad is not obvious to the camera. That is when I would wish for sanitary pads that are thinner, insignificant if possible, without losing its absorbency.

Wearing shorts is my favourite past time

Photo shoot with short skirt

 Getting ready for catwalk class

When I found out about Laurier Slimguard available in the market, I was too excited for words! Finally, there’s someone out there who understands our agony – 1mm ultra-absorbent sanitary pads that promise to be dry and comfortable. I got 2 types to try out – the Laurier Super Slimguard Day 22.5cm and Laurier Super Slimguard Night 30cm.

The new Laurier Super Slimguard series sanitary pads

Laurier Super Slimguard Day 22.5cm

Laurier Super Slimguard Night 30cm

The first thing I did? I took out a pack and compared it with my existing pad, from an older series of Laurier. The difference was so significant! The Slimguard was really slim and thin, only 1mm thick according to the specification, but with 200x absorbency.

Super Slimguard on the left and normal on the right

Look at the difference in thickness

It’s common to have heavy flow on the first 2 days, so I tried the Super Slimguard Night series, which is a massive 30cm long. I used to have this phobia of staining my bed sheets whenever I have period such that I end up not sleeping well at night. But with such long and protective pad, I could sleep however I want without worrying about leakage especially from the back! What I love about the night pad was the adhesive that they provide on the 2 mini wings on the back, something that I don’t see from other brands. Most of the time, these 2 mini wings could easily go out of place especially with active movements but with the adhesives in place, the pad would stay put no matter how active we are.

Super Slimguard Night extra long at 30cm

Notice the adhesives on the back wings

Apart from the superb long pads, I saw great improvement in their surface too. The pad is now reinforced with Quick Dry Mesh Surface which guarantees absolute dryness without the stuffy feeling. I have tried Slimguard for a few days now and I am proud to announce that I now don’t have to worry about sleeping even on white bed sheets. It’s an amazing feeling, almost liberated! Try it and tell me if I’m wrong.

Quick Dry Mesh surface for a dry and comfortable feeling

Laurier Super Slimguard has changed the way I sleep during that time of the month, and given me the freedom to wear short pants and skirts whenever I want to. It’s true.

Laurier Super Slimguard has changed my life

Have you been wondering if I am still attending my modeling classes at Amber Chia Academy? Well the truth is I have completed the Modeling Advanced Catwalk Course a couple of months ago and have just started the Modeling Advanced Photo & Video last week, a signature course taught by Amber Chia herself. But before we move on to the new course, I would like to share with you what we have learnt on our final class at catwalk! We were all asked to tie our hair up into a bun and apply smoky eyes make up before coming to class, with bright chilli red lipstick! I have always thought lipstick application is the simplest process of the makeup but when it comes to chilli red lipstick, it could be quite challenging! Every minor flaw drawn with the lipstick becomes very obvious because of its bright colour. We need very steady hands. This was how we all looked like for the class.

Stephy

Jean

Chilli red lips!

During class, we were taught on how to walk as a group – be it a couple or in a group of 3 or more models. We started with modeling as a couple in casual catwalk, and the choreography was quite straightforward – the couple was to meet at the beginning of the runway, walk to the end together and return to the starting point. Then the female model would do a solo catwalk while the male model waited for his turn and do his solo afterwards. To get a better picture, watch the first video below by 2 of my classmates.

 Getting ready for couple catwalk

Casual Catwalk by a couple

After the Casual catwalk, we were asked to put on the gowns and do a catwalk Elegant/Bridal style. The first time I did it, I actually forgot to maneuver my can can gown at the end of the runway, therefore  almost stepping into my tail when I turned around. *gasp* I guess I was concentrating too much on synchronizing with my partner that I forgot about the basic steps. But of course, we learn from mistakes and I never forgot to turn my dress now whenever I walk in can can gown. Watch the second video below to see us modeling as if it’s a bridal show. My part is towards the end, so be patient!

Elegant catwalk in a couple formation

Elegant/Bridal Catwalk

What do you think of my catwalk? Is it much better than the first time? I certainly hope so! Well the experience was fun especially when we saw how the guys were trying to avoid stepping on the tail of our dresses many times (but failed!) at first. Then, with more practice, we started to understand each other more through body language and our synchronization became better. That’s the most important thing we learn from group modeling – communication through body language, because there was no way we could talk or even make signals while walking in front of the audience.

with the students and model Kelly Jagan

Note: This is Part 10 of a series of Advanced Modeling Catwalk course at Amber Chia Academy. Check out the remaining series here.

And so the day of the big Fashion, Wine and Dine event came – L’APERITIF Fashion at The View, G Tower. All of us were dressed to the nines, in accordance to the fashionably chic theme. We were there slightly past 8.30pm and the whole place was filled with people having fun with their glasses of Kronenbourg beer, while dancing to the groovy music played by the DJ. Soon, the emcee Josiah announced that the event had started, and our all attention was focused on the main stage.

L’APERITIF FASHION Event at The View, G Tower

To the honour of L’APERITIF FASHION, the world-renowned Malaysian-born shoe designer Dato’ Professor Jimmy Choo, OBE made a special appearance at the inaugural launch and shared his wisdom on the development of Malaysia’s fashion industry and his devotion in educating, supporting and training that aims to inspire the talented local designers. Dato’ Prof Jimmy Choo has added another feather to his cap recently after being crowned the World’s Outstanding Chinese Designer (WOCD) for 2011, for his great achievements in shoe design, by the prestigious Hong Kong Design Centre (HKDC). His involvement as mentor in the L’APERITIF FASHION is a testament of his passion in imparting knowledge in designs and experience in the international industry to the talented local designers who aspire to showcase their masterpiece on the international run-way.

The emcee Josiah Mizukami

Glasses upon glasses ready to be filled with Kronenbourg beer

The fabulous crowd

Apart from the Dato’ Jimmy Choo, we were pleased to see a few other noted celebrity in the fashion world making their presence that night too! Other well-known fashion icons of Malaysia such as Amber Chia, Gillian Hung and Keith Kee have also been appointed as fashion gurus for the upcoming L’APERITIF FASHION runways in 2012.

Dato’ Jimmy Choo, Gillian Hung, Amber Chia and Keith Kee

The event started with a mini fashion show parading the designs of Teresa Thian, using the colours of Kronenbourg as inspiration.

Mini fashion show

Picture of the models and Soren Ravn, Managing Director of Carlsberg Malaysia

Soren Ravn, Managing Director of Carlsberg Malaysia said “Inspired by the French Art of Pleasure, Kronenbourg 1664 is proud to introduce L’APERITIF FASHION, the glamorous French version of Happy Hour in Malaysia. With its strong affiliations in the fashion scene and supported by world-renowned shoe designer Dato’ Prof Jimmy Choo, OBE, as mentor and Malaysia’s well-known fashion icons as gurus, Kronenbourg has set the fashion runway for talented local designers to showcase their creativity through a collection of French infused masterpieces. Special thanks goes to our tourism ambassador to the United Kingdom, Dato’ Prof Jimmy Choo, OBE for his devotion in educating the Malaysia fashion industry and knowledgesharing that is definitely inspiring many.”

Group picture with the fashion gurus

The first-of-its-kind and inspired by Kronenbourg 1664’s French Art of Pleasure, L’APERITIF FASHION was launched with the unveiling of Gallo by Thian’s concept designs by lead designer, Teresa Thian. The Kedah born fashion designer who is well-known for her chic, feminine and elegant designs unveiled her L’APERITIF FASHION collection. The design combines vintage with elegance, reflecting French’s sophistication. It is a bold fashion statement that is seductively French infused with Malaysian elements.

Teresa Thian and her designs

Group picture

Coincidentally, it was also Amber Chia’s birthday that night, hence a surprise cake for her!

Birthday cake for Amber Chia

It was certainly a night filled with fun, music and lots of Kronenbourg! Once again, Kronenbourg 1664 outdid themselves in hosting a marvellous event that is the talk of the town.

with the RedFM DJs – Jeremy and Lexie

With over 350 years of heritage, Kronenbourg 1664 is effortlessly sophisticated and synonymous with French luxury. The brand is also highly associated with fashion with iconic events such as Kronenbourg’s Who’s Next Designer Search and presence at renowned fashion shows such as Malaysian International Fashion Week. For more information on L’APERITIF FASHION, please visit www.facebook.com/KronenbourgMY

Amber Chia is easily one of the most hardworking and dedicated supermodel around. Started as a model from a young age, the lanky lady is now not only a gorgeous mother to little Ashton, but a very successful businesswoman. With the aim of discovering more local talents, she has started her first Amber Chia Academy early this year, with the aim of opening a total of 3 academies by end of the year. She has not only reached her target, but has surpassed it with the opening of her 4th academy last week at Berjaya Times Square (BTS).

Amber Chia Academy at Berjaya Times Square

I first knew Amber Chia personally during an opening ceremony of a restaurant. I was fortunate to share the same dinner table with her, and managed to have a short conversation with the friendly model, only to have her asking me to join her academy due to my height. I pondered the thought and eventually took the plunge. With her busy schedule and wide circle of friends, I wouldn’t expect her to remember all of her students. But during my first fashion show in MIFW, I saw her backstage and she told me that she’s proud of me to finally have my first walk. It may not mean much to anyone, but to me, it meant that she cared. And she really does care about all her students.

Some of the ACA graduates with Amber Chia and team

The radiant Amber Chia in red

The opening ceremony of the BTS branch could not be better in timing since it was also Amber’s celebration of her 30th birthday.

The runway

Strategically located in the middle of the metropolitan Kuala Lumpur, the academy in BTS covers an area of over 2,000 square feet on the 8th floor. It is also the first ACA with a noticeably more upscale and futuristic design, its luxurious exterior and interior inspired by world class modeling and makeup studios. Having attended my classes in the Jaya One branch before, stepping into the BTS studio definitely gave me a different feeling – so much more chic, modern and huge!

A token from the witch

The ACA signature heels

The good thing about a branch in a shopping centre is that the academy will be open every day of the week, hence offering weekend courses as well. That’s good news for working adults! In addition, there will also be new classes offered for kids and nail art courses for beauty students starting from next year.

Food served during the opening

The spacious studio

Esther Tan

Esther Tan, Amber and Nadia

Catwalk guru Benjamin Toong

ACA students Sheena & Wafa

The event was made even more excited with the presence of renowned fashion designer, none other than Dato’ Jimmy Choo, someone that Amber refers affectionately to as her ‘brother’. He was an extremely humble man who’s soft-spoken and always with a smile.

The ACA team with Dato’ Jimmy Choo

with Dato’ Jimmy Choo

After we’re all satiated with the buffet spread and the unlimited servings of Kronenbourg 1664 beer, the show finally started. We were treated to a fashion show and a makeup showcase by graduates and current students of ACA.

Benjamin getting excited to start the show

Makeup showcase #1

Makeup showcase #2

Amanda Cheng

Sheena Liam

Cheryll Ho

Josephine

Angelica Yap

Kurt Chin

Reina

Leon

Yu Ling

Gwen

Wafa

After the show, there was also an introduction of the team at ACA, including make-up guru Desmond, catwalk instructors Esther Tan and Kit Leu, as well as the catwalk guru Benjamin Toong. Oh, and don’t forget a special appearance by little Ashton! Yes, he’s already walking the runway at such a young age – impressive!

Kit Leu

Ashton

Before the event ended, we celebrated Amber’s 30th birthday with a huge cake and a birthday song. She was clearly happy and overjoyed with the successful launch of her studio and an amazing crowd singing her a birthday song. Here’s wishing her a very happy birthday and may there be more local talents discovered in the fashion world. Make us proud!

Happy Birthday Amber

Amber Chia Academy BTS

For more pictures, check out the Facebook album here.

Amber Chia Academy Berjaya Times Square
No. 08-58,08-59,08-60, 8th Floor,
Berjaya Times Square,
Jalan Imbi,
55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Contact No.: +603-2141 8998
Website: www.supermodel-academy.com

********

On another note, did you know that the iPhone 4S is coming to town? Pre-register at www.celcom.com.my/iphone to get an exclusive invite to Celcom’s Official Launch happening on 16 Dec, at La Bodega, Bangsar Shopping Centre KL. Pre-registered customers will enjoy priority queue at the launch. Get the best iPhone yet!

I need to go shopping! Find out why at the end of the post! Kronenbourg – by now, I’m sure this brand of premium French beer with 350 years of brewing heritage is no stranger to us. We have seen its strong presence in this year’s Malaysian International Gourmet Festival (MIGF) and more recently, the Malaysia International Fashion Week (MIFW), by being the proud sponsors of free-flow beer for both events. My first encounter with the beer though, was in the middle of the year when they launched the Kronenbourg Blanc. I thought the beer was fruity and refreshing, totally different from the other beers that I’ve tried before.

Get invited to the exclusive Fashion Event!

A little background on how Kronenbourg’s beer is produced:

Kronenbourg beer is brewed in exceptional conditions using only the finest ingredients – which include the Strisselspalt hop; other wise known as the “caviar of hops”. The Strisselspalt hop, selected barley and pure water from the Vosges mountains is melded together with skilful blending to give Kronenbourg beer its’ exquisite taste.

Kronenbourg 1664

Currently there are 2 range of Kronenbourg beer in Malaysia, the first being the the Kronenbourg 1664, a clear and bright golden-coloured liquor with a thick and creamy long-lasting froth. There is also a very lively carbonation, comprising tiny masses of bubbles lacing the glass. Its taste is slightly bittersweet with a distinct citrus hop taste further defined by a refreshing clean crisp and uncut flavour. The medium bodied Kronenbourg 1664 also has a sparking mouthfeel and is ever so slightly acidic with some good malt flavour upfront, a little sweetness and a tiny hint of cloves. The beer aroma has a dominant scent of flowery hops, citrus fruits and malt aroma. There is also a touch of yeast, fruits (banana and Mirablee plum) and pepper in the aromatic mix.

Kronenbourg Blanc 1664

On the other hand, I am a fan of the Kronenbourg 1664 Blanc, a refreshing white beer with underlying notes of coriander and cloves with an intriguingly distinctive balance of subtle citrus and fruity flavours. It brings out traces of fruits with hardly any hint of spiciness, which one would expect from a wheat beer. The taste follows along in much the same vein and finishes clean with a touch of dryness. More importantly, it’s not even bitter – very easy on the palate!

L’APERITIF Fashion by Kronenbourg

Now now, as for why I need to go shopping, it’s because I’m getting myself prepared to attend this exclusive and glamorous event known as the L’APERITIF Fashion! I know it might sound like a mouthful, but it is actually a version of the French Happy Hour, intrinsic to the French Culture of  ‘art de vivre’ (art of living) – a celebration of good friends, good food, good spirits and good conversation. This year, the featured designer would be our very own Gallo by Thian, a local designer known for her distinctiveness and individualism style.

Fall/Winter 11/12  Collection from Gallo by Thian

What is this event about?

Attendees can expect to be whisked away into a glamorous French Affair in the middle of down town Kuala Lumpur. There will be fashionable people all around, fine dining, display designs from Gallo by Thian and a makeup station by L’ancome. All this coupled with the exquisite taste of Kronenbourg 1664. In other words, it’ll be a night of glitz, glamour, fine dining and free flow of beer in the company of beautiful people!

How to WIN passes?

That’s right! Kronenbourg is kind enough to sponsor a pair of tickets to this exclusive event to you lovely people. To win a pair of tickets to the L’APERITIF Fashion Event on the 15th of December 2011 at The View G Tower, simply complete the following slogan in no more than 10 words:

I want to win the passes to the L’aperitif fashion event by Kronenbourg because..

Closing date: 9th of December 2011

If you have the best slogan as determined by the representatives at Kronenbourg, can we go shopping together please?

For more information, follow their Twitter at @KronenbourgMY or Like their Facebook Fan Page at www.Facebook.com/KronenbourgMY. Good luck and hope to see you soon!

*UPDATE: The panel of judges at Kronenbourg has spoken, and the WINNER is:

Isaac Tan – “I want to win the passes to the L’aperitif fashion event by Kronenbourg because of the L’amour feeling of seeing ladies over french beers”

CONGRATULATIONS!

]]> http://www.iamthewitch.com/2011/12/04/laperitif-fashion-kronenbourg/feed/ 37 http://www.iamthewitch.com/2011/11/28/malaysia-international-fashion-week-2011-backstage-2/ http://www.iamthewitch.com/2011/11/28/malaysia-international-fashion-week-2011-backstage-2/#comments Mon, 28 Nov 2011 02:11:47 +0000 iamthewitch http://www.iamthewitch.com/?p=5525

Who would have known that dreams really do come true? 10 years ago, I was on the audience side of the fashion show, staring up at the models strutting the runway, wishing to be one of them. Fast forward 10 years later, I was living the dream, walking the runway for the first time ever at the Malaysia International Fashion Week 2011, organized by MIFA. After months of training and practice at the Amber Chia Academy, I was finally given the golden opportunity to catwalk at this prestigious annual fashion affair.

The prestigious Malaysia International Fashion Week 2011 by MIFA

Since it was also my first ever fashion show, it meant so much more to me. I was having butterflies in my stomach a few days before the show, nervous and excited at the same time. Curious to know what happens behind the scenes during a fashion show? I’m more than happy to share my first experience backstage.

Sabrina waiting for her hairdo

More than 20 of us were chosen to model for the 11am show entitled “A Tribute to Mickey and Friends”. Our call time, or the time that we’re supposed to be on location, was 4 hours earlier at 7am. Ungodly, I know. We were there before the sky was bright, and waited for further instructions.

Waiting for hair-styling

First stop was to the make-up room, where our make-up was sponsored by M.A.C. The make-up team was quick and efficient, completing our make-up in about half and hour or so. We were then asked to move to the hair room, where another team from Snips Hair Salon was going to style our hair.

Make-up by M.A.C. team

I thought handling such a big group of models would be chaotic but it was really quite systematic. Those who were waiting for their make-up would do their hair first, and vice-versa. Before long, we were all done by about 9am. We were then ushered to the backstage, to be briefed on the choreography on stage and to perform a rehearsal. I finally walked the runway for the very first time during rehearsal and boy, was it long! In my mind, all I could think of was “Please, don’t slip!”.

Backstage

After the rehearsals, we met with our respective designers to try on their clothes and to be briefed on the order of our appearance. Our group was going to wear clothes designed by 2 different designers – Andy Yap and Michelle. Soon, it was 10.30am, just half an hour before the show. We all changed into our respective outfits, complete with accessories and all, standing by at the backstage. Make-up artists and hair stylists were also standing by, always ready to touch up this shiny face or pin up that stray hair. Everyone was working as a team, it was really impressive.

My outfit

Kim Low

Sabrina – can you guess what character she was portraying as?

Amber Chia standing by backstage

Shortly after 11am, we heard the emcee  starting the show. We were asked to get ready and queue up. The show has begun!

What can I say? For a first-timer like me, I was indeed nervous and perhaps trembling a little, walking in front of a huge crowd under the bright spotlight. There must have been dozens of camera in front of me, with flashes everywhere. I was secretly relieved that I was wearing a pair of sunglasses during my first walk, at least I would not be blinded by the bright lights. Thanks to Saucer who was there to support me and take pictures of the show, I have these amazing shots to share! Enjoy!

Amber Chia doing the final walk

The whole show took about an hour to finish, but to me, it felt like it’s over within a blink of eye! Everything had happened so quickly, the queuing, the changing of clothes and the walk – it was all over now. What an exhilarating experience it has been. Sure, I did not have the best walk – I still had to improve on the confidence and ‘wooden-ness’ of my walk, but as Amber said to me backstage – “Always remember to have fun on the runway!”. And have fun I did.

*Read more about my training at Amber Chia Academy here & here.

“Dramatic Modeling” – when I first saw this stated in my course syllabus, I had no idea what to expect. Were we expected to act? Were we expected to speak? Well, all of them were answered when the time came for that particular class. We were lucky to have Kelly Jagan, Ford Models Supermodel of the Year 2009, to be the guest instructor that night. The lanky lass is talented and can speak multiple languages including Mandarin and Cantonese. We were then briefed that dramatic modeling usually applies to shows for nail and hair, where big dramatic movements were made using our hands and body, just like dancing or acting in a mime.

Example of hair show (source)

Example of Nail show (source)

Kelly was extremely fluid in her movements, walking and posing with her hands effortlessly and naturally without being over the top. I tried to mimic her movements but ended up looking very stiff and unnatural. Apparently, this would have been easier for someone who has dancing background, something that I don’t have. I found this class especially challenging for me, and all my movements appeared rigid and wooden. *sigh*

The very gracious Stephy

My classmate Stephy was the star for this lesson, for she managed to move her hands gracefully and naturally, even for a first-timer! Wonder what’s her secret.

Posing for nails

Rebecca with her dramatic pose

Practice makes perfect!

To get an idea of what dramatic modeling is, watch the video by Kelly Jagan below. She started by demonstrating to us how to walk during a Nail show, and later on continued with a Hair show.

Kelly Jagan with her dramatic modeling movements

Note: This is Part 7 of a series of Advanced Modeling Catwalk course at Amber Chia Academy. Check out the remaining series here.

Do you still remember the character Giselle in the show Enchanted? I remember watching it a few years back and was captivated by her gorgeous wedding gown that was so fairy-tale like! Big, fluffy and lacy, the dress is so vivid in my memories even until now. But wearing such a big gown is no easy task. I’ve worn similar gowns before and it’s heavy and difficult to manage. Very often, I found myself stepping on my own dress while walking, simply because it’s too long.

Amy Adams as Giselle in can-can wedding gown (Source)

Gorgeous wedding gown from Enchanted (Source)

Being a model, one has to be versatile and able to walk in various types of gowns. The three main and most common types of gowns in the fashion world are A-Line gowns, Mermaid gowns and Can-can gowns. Now I have written about how to walk in Mermaid gowns here, so today I shall write about my experience walking with a Can can gown. Can-can or crinoline gowns are worn with a stiff petticoat usually made from a steel structure underneath the dress. This structure is supposed to support the skirt’s shape by making it look almost like a bell.

Rebecca in her can-can gown

Thankfully, we were taught how to walk with this big can-can gown in our class at Amber Chia Academy. Of course, the fun part was wearing the gorgeous gown at first, and then learning how to walk in it. My first impression? My goodness the gown was heavy! It felt like someone was dragging me down from behind. Coupled with a long tail, it’s difficult to maneuver the gown if we did not do it the right way.

My purple can-can gown

Esther Tan was our instructor of the day

Compared to the Mermaid gown, the biggest difference with Can-can gown is that we do not need to use our leg to kick the gown. Instead, we had to use our hands to steer the skirt during posing and turning, to make sure that the tail did not get in our way. Esther Tan was, as always, graceful as ever and taught us the correct technique to walk and pose with the can-can gown, complete with music in the background. During the first few trials, a few of us tend to step on the front of the skirt since it’s rather long, but with more practice and the correct way of walking, we managed to master it beautifully. Here is the video taken during our first class practicing with can-can gown. Enjoy!

Catwalk with Can-can gown

Note: This is Part 6 of a series of Advanced Modeling Catwalk course at Amber Chia Academy. Check out the remaining series here.

Apart from modeling for fashion, models will get jobs modeling for products as well. Some of the more common products that appear on the runway include gadgets (camera, phone, GPS, laptops), handbags, sunglasses, sports equipment and jewellery. Modeling for products is slightly different from modeling for clothes because the main object now is the product instead of what the model is wearing. Therefore, as a model, she has to bring the audience’s attention to the product that she’s holding or wearing, and at the same time display the best of the product to them.

Hong Kong Jewelry show

I think one of the hardest product to model for is probably jewellery, not because they’re expensive, but because some of the items can be so small (rings/earrings) and one has to be extremely gentle and elegant while modeling for these exclusive pieces. Also, the biggest difference  between jewellery modeling and the rest is that the models usually have to walk very near to the audience, sometimes even mingle among them, so that they could have a closer look at the items. I was looking through some of the videos on jewellery modeling and found that in one case, the models just had to pose on stage, without walking, while showing off their jewellery. In another case, the models walked along the runway and then down to the floor level passing by the audience, just close enough for them to have a good look at the jewellery.

The Jewellery Show 2010

 At such close proximity with the audience, surely there is no room for mistake. We were taught some basics on product modeling during one of the lessons at ACA, and we had to bring a whole bag of things to class, ranging from handbags, sunglasses, bangles, necklace, and even sports equipment. Also, we were requested to go with the smoky eyes make-up that we were taught before, and a ponytail with no fringe.

Girls getting excited!

We were first taught how to model for gadgets/hand phones. In fact, the tips for product modeling are quite standard no matter which product is on display:

1. Hold the item such that the front faces the audience
2. Find out where the label is (if any) and make sure it’s visible to the audience
3. Do not hold the product too near to your body, maintain a reasonable distance so that it is visibly displayed in front
4. If you’re holding something small (like a cell phone), make sure your fingers do not cover the item – the audience is interested in the product, not your fingers

Modeling for cell phone

We started with modeling for cell phone, where each of us had to hold our cell phone, walk down the runway while holding it, and pose with it at the end of the runway.

 Make sure fingers don’t cover the product – hold with 2 hands …

.. or with one hand, it doesn’t matter

Next, we were taught to walk with sunglasses. Most shows would require the models to walk with 2 pairs of sunglasses – one pair that is worn by the model and another pair being held for display. In most cases, the model would have to switch sunglasses during the walk, which is wear some practice might be required.

Walking with sunglasses #1

The change of sunglasses happens just after the first pose at the end of the runway, when the model turns around to walk with her back facing the audience. She has to remove the first pair and put on the second pair before she reaches the middle of the runway where she would make a half turn and walk down again, this time with the second pair of sunglasses. Without practice, this process might take longer than desired or might even delay the duration of the catwalk.

Change to sunglasses #2

Third product – handbags. This is also another item that requires some practice since we might be asked to carry 2 or 3 bags at a time. A model then has to figure out a way to show all the items in a systematic way without appearing too cluttered. Perhaps a first pose with the purse, then change to the handbag and finally to a sling bag.

Posing with bags

Finally, we were asked to put on our jewellery/accessories and walk down the runway. The difference with jewellery modeling is that we might be asked to get closer to the audience, sometimes walk around them so that they could have a closer look at these delicate items.

Stephy with her bangles and ring

Jolene with her watches

 Posing with bracelets and watches

Walking down the runway with jewellery

Comparing product modeling and fashion modeling, I think my preference still lies with fashion. You see, I think of myself as quite a clumsy person and whenever I have something precious in hand, I’m worried of dropping it accidentally while walking or posing! Imagine what a shame it would be. Anyway, it is always good to learn something new each lesson. Stay tuned for the next post on modeling with can-can gown!

Note: This is Part 5 of a series of Advanced Modeling Catwalk course at Amber Chia Academy. Check out the remaining series here.