First, your hands and feet always have to look flawless. We all know what that means…manicures and pedicures on a weekly basis. Clients are always aware of the little things – like chipped polish, dirt under your nails, and hairy toes. I didn’t think they paid much attention to these things, but trust me, I quickly learned that I was completely wrong. I’ve even been to castings where they specifically took pictures of my hands and low and behold, I had chipped polish.

Needless to say, I did not book that job.  I’ve found that the key to saving money when it comes to this type of maintenance is 1) figuring out how to do it yourself and 2) finding places that will give you a great deal when you promise consistent repeat business. I’m a little wary of the places that have unbeatable prices, but only because that may mean that the salon is not very sanitary (and listen, there’s no way a client is going to book you with a huge wart on your hand).

Another solution to this problem, at least when it comes to manicures, is press-on nails. They’re affordable and actually look great for a few days depending upon the brand that you choose.

Second, hairy is gross. Always. Everywhere (besides on top of your head). That means that you have to make sure you don’t grow a mustache or beard (which isn’t as hard as it sounds) and you definitely can’t have crazy unruly eyebrows, wolverine-like arms or legs, or private parts that resembles shrubbery. I’ve come to invest in Sally Hansen’s cold wax and a set of really reliable and sharp razors (that come with multiple refill cartridges). Sometimes if I am in the mood for a splurge, I go to a spa… but I do find it a little ridiculous to be charged so much for someone to give me a quick wham, bam, rip, and pull.

Since my background is Middle Eastern, I won’t lie – I’m a hair-growing machine. Dark Hair. This means that 1) I definitely can’t afford to go to a spa all of the time and 2) that my medicine cabinet is always stuffed with cold wax, bleach, tweezers, 10x magnifying mirrors, and bags of razors. And guess what? I’m still hairy!

Thirdly, my hair grows really fast, which means that my hairdresser is quickly becoming one of my best friends. Unfortunately, it’s immensely important for models to have healthy, clean, shiny, and silky hair. This means no split ends and no skimping on hair products. Haircuts are expensive and so are deep-conditioning crèmes. Sometimes, when I get lucky, the agency will work out a deal for me to get discounted cuts and colors, but I don’t bank on it. For me, this does mean getting my hair done on a fairly regular basis and taking care of it right off the bat (so that I’m not paying for special glazes and fix-it treatments down the line).

On top of these three maintenance must-do’s, you must also have everything in my little bag of tricks. This means, you must go out and buy certain items that make you more desirable to a client. Want the list? Lucky for you, you’ve come to the right place to get it:

- Hair Extensions. I’ve found that the best type are clip-ins that you’ve had cut and layered so they look natural in your hair. I buy mine at Wigs and Plus near Union Square and they cost anywhere between $125-$175 depending on the length that you need.

-Seamless Underwear. This means panties AND bras! Any brand of panty or bra that shows lines or marks is a big no-no.

-Padding. If you don’t know what I mean by padding, it’s exactly what it sounds like. More specifically, it requires you getting foam pads that are specifically designed to enhance and create the illusion of added weight to certain areas of your body – usually your hips, thighs, waist, and bust. Some plus models even go as far as getting a customized suit (but that WILL cost you a pretty penny.) In the padding department, I suggest www.FabulousFit.com. You get all of the necessary pieces for around $90.00. You must also have a great waist to thigh shapewear piece in which to stuff the pads.

-Chicken Cutlets (well, not literally chicken). Cutlets are silicone breast inserts that make your bust appear larger as well as giving you the option to create different breast shapes if needed. I also suggest having a set of back-up nude-colored pasties (aka nipple covers) for situations where you may need to appear topless. These can be foundfor $5 at Forever 21 and definitely do the trick.

-Plain Black High Heels. Models should always be seen as blank canvases and therefore must always carry a pair of plain black pumps in case a client wants to do an impromptu fitting. I also love how they lengthen and define the muscles in your legs (nothing wrong with that, right?)

-Tweezers. My favorite brand is Tweezerman. They’re a little on the pricey side (around $30) but they stay sharp and work extremely well. Tweezerman Stainless Steel Pointed Slant Tweezer.

Again, you never know when a wonky eyebrow hair may reappear…

-Mints/Listerine strips. There is nothing worse than having bad breath and talking to a client. They could absolutely love you but be completely turned off by what you ate for lunch. Unfortunately, chewing gum is just as unattractive as oral odor, so ditch the gum before entering any sort of work environment.

-Lotion. I’m prone to dry skin, so I always lather myself up with lotion before a casting or a shoot. You should do the same. Ashy elbows and knees are forbidden.

-Basic Makeup. You never know when you’ll be called to a casting or a shoot, so you should always carry around the fundamentals – mascara, eyeliner, lip-gloss, and blush. I would also recommend a travel hairbrush.

-Cash. You can never tell when you’re going to need to make it somewhere fast, which means having at least a $20 on you at all times.

The reality is, you never want a client to be able to say no to you for a trivial reason. As long as you have your bag of tricks and you follow my 3 rules, a client is going to have to come up with a really great excuse not to hire you. It also means that if you’re on a job with all of your necessities taken care of, they’ll be more likely to re-book you because they’ll see you as someone who is always prepared (even when they may not be)!

Visit Amanda’s website AmandaTice.com, Follow her on Twitter and Fan her of Facebook.

Click here to view more from the editorial at Ford Models.

Swimsuitsforall – Valentine Collection Halter Swimsuit

We we’re stopped in our tracks when we spotted Beck Delude herself! Owner of the Manfattan Project, Beck knows her stuff. From the infinite scarf to the ankle booties, this look has serious style cred and we think she looks amazing. Love it? Shop the look below!

Macys – Spense Sleeveless Belted Dress
Old Navy – Infinite Scarf
Piperlime – Bronx Who R U Boots
eloquii – Twisted Cobra Bracelet use promo code MADISON20 and SAVE 20%

Nordstrom – Miraclesuit in Animal Attraction

ASOS – Round Metal Sunglasses
Zappos – MICHAEL Michael Kors – ML2786S (Nude) – Eyewear
Nordstrom – Valentino Cat’s Eye Sunglasses
ASOS – Preen by Thornton Bregazzi Aviators
Nordstrom – Stella McCartney Oversized Cat’s-Eye Sunglasses
Nordstrom – Burberry Oversized Sunglasses
ASOS – Oversized Nude Square Sunglasses
Shopbop – Balenciaga Twisted Temple Sunglasses
OneStopPlus – Secret Eyewear The Hudson

When Wilhelmina plus model Penelope Benson got to stop by our studio we couldn’t decide what we loved more – her personal style, her eyes or how amazingly sweet she is! Perfectly rocking some high/low style mastery, Penelope combined a sporty tee with a lady-like floral pencil skirt. Capping it all off were a pair of drool-worthy heels and some killer curves!

Name: Penelope Benson
Agency: Wilhelmina W Curve
Hometown: Sydney, Australia
Favorite Designer: Isabel Marant! Alaia! Celine!
City You Love to Visit: Paris, Rome, and New york of course!
Musr Have Spring Trend: Denim, Light, dark, white, skirts, shorts, jeans, etc. etc.
Favorite Fashion Magazine: LOVE Mag, Vogue Paris

Hi MP readers! My name is Nefferth, the creative mind behind Mode Plus, a personal style blog where I do fashion the Emotionista way. Fashion is about personal interpretation and creativity. I truly believe that a woman can wear whatever she wants as long as she believes in herself. I always say: “wear your clothes, don’t let your clothes wear you”. And this motto goes beyond any size, shape or form you may be. Embrace what you have in this moment and let’s get some outfits done these coming months!

I love the 1940′s and my inner fashion child is urging me to try out the shorter version of the retro playsuit. The last time I actually wore a playsuit, I think I was in my pre-teens. Spring has arrived and summer is around the corner. A perfect opportunity to try out this fashion adventure avec the playsuit.

According to this article, the playsuit emerged in the 1940′s. Back in the day, it was worn for sporting activities. A fashionable way for a lady to dress up her top and shorts after playing tennis or badminton. Since the 1940′s, we have seen the playsuit reappear in various prints and material. Recall the 1970′s polyester bold colors and prints? And what about the 1980′s version: pleated front? Whatever version came by, I can’t deny it’s appeal. Not shorts, not a dress just inbetween.

In this post I will show you one playsuit and three looks. Because each person is different, I will let you choose which look you’ll rock for work, weekend or party.

Next post I’ll introduce you another playsuit in a fresh minty color. Stay tuned ….. Nefferth

Look 1

Grey Cardigan, Earrings | H&M

Bowler Hat | Monki

Playsuit | Vinsectro

Grey Loafers | Bertie Shoes

Burgundy Plus Size Tights | We Love Colors

Look 2

Scarf as Headband | Forever 21

Pink Collar | DIY

Look 3

Biker Jacket | Episode

Red Clutch, Panter/Silver Ring | H&M

Necklace | Primark

Skull Earrings | One Euro Shop

Evans – Flower Print Swimsuit

Lane Bryant One Piece Retro Swimsuit

The grunge look from the 90′s is hot and will be a big trend this coming fall. Singer/actress Selena Gomez gets in on the look now with a cute, relaxed outfit that translates perfect for your curves. One part hipster and one part girl-next door, this look can easily get “messy” so make sure you keep it simple and stick to a fun mani and a colorful scarf when accessorizing. This look is perfect for those transitional days when its warm and cool, and you’ll be ready for movie-night or errands with the girls!

Shop the Look

Zappos – Steve Madden Troopa Boot
eloquii – Short Sleeve Crochet Sweater use promo code MADISONPLUS20 and SAVE 20%
Saks – James Jeans, High-Waisted Pencil Jeans
Torrid – Twist Tees Ivory Foxy Cami
Shopbop – Theodora & Callum Gypsy Fringe Scarf
Sephora – Glee Collection Nail Color

Image from People.com.

Swim Suits For All Mesh V-Neck Dress

“I am grateful to Noreen Flanagan, Editor of Elle Canada, for inviting me to share my research in such an intelligent and much admired fashion publication.”

Ben also shared some additional exciting news:

“The next phase of my research will focus on men’s consumer response to diverse male models in fashion advertising.”

We can’t wait to read more from Ben’s research! Read the full Elle Canada article here and be sure to show support by telling us what you think. Your voice is important! Join the talk at Twitter using hash-tag #diversityINfashion and leave us comments here and on our Facebook Wall.

Images by Ben Barry Agency, Models (top to botom): Kathryn, Nelia and Helen.
Collage by INGRID BAARS, Elle Canada 

Anna Scholz – Silk Maxi Dress
Old Navy – Open Front Blouse
Saks – Nicholas Kirkwood Tropical-Print Pumps
New Look – Inspire  Tropical Print Mini Skirt
Nordstrom – Kenneth Cole ‘Placed Peony’ Top
Macys – Baby Phat High Low Maxi Dress
ASOS CURVE – Tropical Print Pencil Skirt
ASOS CURVE – Exclusive Jumpsuit In Tropical Print
Dorothy Perkins – Tropical Maxi Dress
Ashley Stewart – Web Exclusive: Tummy Control Swim Dress

This year we have a special message from a dear friend, new mother, Wilhelmina model and curvy crusader – Sage Salzar!

Nordstrom – Presley Skye Silk Dress
(sizes currently available are large & extra large or size 12/14 and 16)