Expert: Kitty Kavey - 7/22/2006

Question
Hi there.  Hey well I am trying out a little modeling...can you describe how models walk?  Like runway!  I am working on a little bit of that but I could use more help.  How do I work my hips?  lol thanks a bunch :).

Answer
It's actually kind of funny - but it seems some of the best runway walkers are actually drag queens.  You can pick up great tips on runway walking from shows like America's Next Top Model, and The Janice Dickenson Agency - both of whom use men to teach women's runway walking.

Basically, your hips are forward in front of your body.  The arms swing close to your sides with an open graceful hand (unclenched).  Feet are usually picked up slightly higher than normal, toes forward and the each step crosses in front of the other.  Careful not to go too high (as you'll look like a horse).  The head is generally forward, eyes up, with not much of an expression, shoulders back.  When the arm or arms are placed on the waist or hips (such as at the end of the runway in a brief pose) elbows are usually down and the back arched.  Hips are something that really depends on what you're showing.  A skirt or dress should not move around a lot, while you might want to exaggerate lingerie or swimwear with more of a roll of the hips.  

Naturally, there are many interpretations of the walk.  There is a model's own personal style (or signature walk), as well as instructions from the designer or coordinator that need to be followed.

The best way to learn if you don't have a teacher is to watch the fashion shows on TV, observe what they do, and practice in front of a mirror.  If you belong to a gym, quite often they put treadmills in front of mirrors.  Put it on a medium speed, listen to your favorite pulsating beat, and practice stepping until it just becomes natural to you and you don't have to think about it.  At the very least you'll have fun while you work out.
Good luck to you,
~Kitty