The model's bag is what you need to have with you at every job. I, for instance, have the largest of shoe bags. Yeah, everyone makes fun of it, but when they need something, who do you think they ask?

My bag is an upright suitcase with shelving, pockets for hosiery and foundations, not to mention 4 wheels to roll on. Carrying your bag is not a good idea for your back. Make-up should be properly stored, so that there is no lipstick on your new shoes! I carry a caboodle from Walmart, and yes, it's packed too!

Your agency will usually give you a list of required items for the model’s bag. These are my personal recommendations:

Kinds of SHOES to have in your bag

• Loafers - Black/Brown/Navy
• Pumps/heels - Black/Brown/Navy/Neutral
  
• Keds- white tie ups
  
• Depending on season - (fall/spring):
  
• Boots - Black/Brown
  
• Sandals- white/neutral
  
• Choose shoes that will go with a number of things, don't get anything that would distract from the clothing, unless OK'd by the client.
  

Added Model's Bag extras for a Bridal Show

• Strapless bodyslimmer, clear shoes (yes, the plastic kind!), nude hosiery, black heels (for bridesmaid dresses), off white/Pearl colored shoes.  If necessary, please bring extra "stuffing" for the chest. Sometimes, the curvy gowns are made larger in the chest, and so therefore, you need to be prepared to fill them out.
  

Pre-show fittings

• You don’t have to have your whole model’s bag. Instead, make sure you have: Pantyhose, strapless bra, body slimmers (flesh toned, to match your skin) and appropriate shoes.

Hair and Makeup for print work and shows

Print Work

• Your makeup colors should be neutral, local print modeling does not call for the use of gold, blue, purple, etc.... You should have a variety of colors available, because in some cases, the client asks for specific make-up colors.  For Black & White printwork, be sure to use enough color on cheeks, eyes, and lips. If not, you will end up looking washed out, in the photos, but never wear reds for B&W pictures.
  

For Live Shows

• It depends on the lighting.  You should arrive in natural make-up, and add to it as needed. Make sure to check the colors of the clothes you will wear,  and match your make-up to the clothing. Meaning, if you have a lot of light colored clothing, don't wear dark make-up.  Usually the client wishes for you to have natural make up, so as not to distract from the clothes.  Don't forget to take off personal jewelry.

Important note
Receipts - Keep them all and keep mileage log, even if your agency pays $50 extra for expenses, on a few trips.  Keep makeup, nails, shoes (socks & pantyhose), and hair cut receipts. And remember, you cannot use these expenses as a tax right-off unless you are actually making money as a model.

Stephanie started her career as a curvy model back in 1995 when she was a contestant in the Plus USA Pageant in Chicago. She was crowned Ms. Photogenic and Division 1 Winner. As luck would have it, sitting in the audience was an agent from the prestigious Wilhelmina Modeling Agency - the rest is history!

Stephanie has since modeled for an impressive list of clients both in her local market of North Carolina as well as in New York and is currently the new spokesperson for BBW Magazine.