M.O.D (Model Off Duty)This is a term Alexander Wang came up with. He always loves to draw inspiration from models on the street for his collections. They are his muses, he really admires their style. A lot of models have a natural flair for piecing together amazing outfits with very little effort involved. They are among the first to start trends as they witness collections first hand. Many people think when a model does a photoshoot they get to keep the clothes, this just simply isn't the case, unless you're Kate Moss and even then it might only be one garment. On the runway occasionally designers give freebies but this works to the designers advantage as they get a model advertising their clothes and accessories for free. But hey, if you're given a Chanel 2.55 who would be complaining!
To dress like a model here is a list of the wardrobe staples and remember there is nothing wrong with mixing designer pieces with the high street or vintage. This will make your look eclectic and differ you from the crowd.Don't forget the right accessories can add a whole new dimension to an outfit.
JACKETS:
*Fur looks amazing and automatically dresses up an outfit
*Leather looks sleek, sexy and toughens up a look, go for biker styles
*Structured looks polished and minimalistic
*Boyfriend for alternate, grunge chic and masculinity
*Trench for a classic that will never date
*Denim works well with everything and is good for casual wear
PANTS:
*Jeans, because who could live without them? Pick styles that work with your body shape.Just because skinnies are in doesn't mean you must embrace this trend
*Tailored, perfect for work or after hours.You won't have to worry about feeling under dressed .
*Leather, great for the rock star look.I love wearing them when I'm singing on stage.
*Man style, many designers are making more roomy styles which look great paired with structured blazers
*Skinny, because if you've got it, flaunt it!These look great with everything and anything.
SKIRTS / SHORTS:
*Minis, show off toned pins, experiment with different prints and textures, looser styles are more flattering on thighs
*Denim shorts are a major summer staple, carry on through to winter by pairing with opaques or sheer stockings
*Maxis give a strong bohemian feel and evoke memories of summer
*High waisted structured shorts teamed with a blazer is the new take on the suit
DRESSES:
*Body con because every model has one of these in her wardrobe,love Herve Leger
*Balmainesque for partying, look for strong shoulders, micro mini lengths
*Strapless looks sexy with decolletage on display
*Floral looks fresh and youthful
*Maxis are free spirited and flowy, always team with sandals
*Cotton tank dress layered with a vest and scarf
TOPS:
*Bustiers to add va va voom, also look great under a jacket
*Camisoles look soft and the underwear as outerwear trend is not going away anytime soon
*TEES a models fave, look for original prints, slogans, oversized, henley, tank, you name it! Be prepared to pay more for embellished tees, you won't regret it.
*Chiffon blouses, personally I love Equipment, check out Lily Donaldson in the latest campaign donning a snakeskin print blouse.
ACCESSORIES:
I have included a selection of my rings in the photo at the top.As you can tell I adore chunky, knuckle duster rings and finger armour. Brands include; Erin Wasson Low Luv, Soixante Neuf, Family Jewels, Samantha Wills, Mezi and Ebay.
Other accessories to covet:
*Chunky and skinny scarves always add to an outfit
*Wayfarers/Aviators/Oversized sunglasses wear accordingly to suit your mood
*Man style watches look great with everything from a suit to cocktail wear, look to Michael Kors and Marc Jacobs
*Carry all, models have a large bag so they can fit their portfolio in it, exotic leathers such as python are a good neutral print. I dream of owning a Mulberry bag.
*Clutches for night time
*Boots- ankle styles work well with skirts, shorts, dresses and pants
Under the knee- looks great tucked into fitted jeans
Thigh- have to be confident to pull these off, best for the young, look to high end designers otherwise the boot will look cheap, avoid patent
Mid Calf- A tricky length to wear, best for long legs as the height of the boot shortens the leg
*Stilettos- Every woman needs a sexy, empowering pair of heels.
*Sandals- a definite model staple. When a model is working she spends so much time standing in heels.When off duty she wants to feel comfortable and be able to run around as easily as possible to castings. Models always keep a pair of heels in their handbags in case a client wants to see them walk in heels.
*Ballet flats are a stylish alternative and great for the cooler months
*Jewellery, my ultimate fave! Look for individual pieces. I adore American Indian Navajo handmade jewellery. Just bought a gorgeous, genuine, turquoise ring off Ebay, so stunning. Pile on bracelets, cuffs, layer necklaces, chokers in sterling silver from Sass & Bide. Wear bold, attention grabbing rings, cocktail, knuckle duster and finger armour. I tend to favour large, ornamental earrings as I wear a lot of clothes with a boho/ rock chic aesthetic.
*Hats- Beanies, fedoras, trilby, large, felt floppy hats. Great if you haven't had time to wash your hair. Adds an edge to an outfit
*Belts- skinny, wide, waist cinchers, studded, suede, animal print, calf hair, whatever takes your liking
I have included images of models on the street and backstage at the Fall 2011 collections. I think Karmen Pedaru has amazing style. Whether she's rocking a fur chubby and leather pants with a simple oversized tee or wearing a tailored blazer with denim shorts she always looks like a supermodel on and off the catwalk.
