top of page

Why Your Value as a Model Isn’t Defined by a Runway Spot


Rosabyrd at Rise NYFW

Photo: Choice_Visual

So You Didn’t Book a Show? That’s Cool—Your Career Ain’t Over

Let’s get one thing straight: not booking a show during Fashion Week does NOT mean you’re not a dope model. We’re not here for the self-doubt, the overthinking, or the "maybe I’m not good enough" spirals. Cut that out right now.

This industry is wild—it’s fast, it’s unpredictable, and it’s not always fair. You could have the best walk in the room, the most striking face, the energy of a superstar, and still not land the gig. Why? Because casting is subjective as hell. Some designers want a certain "look," some have already pre-cast their favorite faces, and some are just making random decisions based on their mood that day.

If you’re reading this feeling like you’ve taken an L—wake up. The only L here is the one you’re letting yourself believe in.


 

Runway is a Moment—Your Career is Bigger Than That

Walking in Fashion Week is a flex, no doubt. But let’s be real: it’s just one part of the game. Some of the most powerful models in the industry have built their brands OFF the runway. Look at Adwoa Aboah, Winnie Harlow, Paloma Elsesser—these models are redefining the industry with major campaigns, editorial work, and their own personal brands.

Ask yourself: Would you rather walk in one or two shows for exposure and clout, or be the face of global campaigns that secure the bag? If designers aren’t giving you a runway slot, that just means you have more time to focus on editorials, beauty deals, e-commerce work, ambassador roles, and content creation.

Runway might get the hype, but campaigns and brand deals? That’s where the real money is.


ADVERTISEMENT


Model posing on the runway

You’re Still in the Room—Now Make It Work for You

If you’re in New York, London, Paris, or Milan right now, you’re already moving at a level that most people wish they could reach. Fashion Week isn’t just about shows—it’s about networking, building connections, and making sure your face is SEEN.

Not walking? Go to the parties. Go to the events. Go to the showroom previews. Show up looking like you belong—because you do. Some of the biggest career-changing moments happen off the runway. Your next major booking could come from a casual conversation with a stylist, a photographer, or a casting director who remembers how you carried yourself.

If you’re sitting at home feeling down, flip the energy. Hit up photographers for test shoots, connect with makeup artists and stylists, create your own content and remind people why you’re a force in this industry. If they didn’t book you this season, make them regret it next season.


 

What Defines You as a Model? Your Hustle, Not a Show List

The models who last in this game aren’t the ones who let one season of castings define their worth. They’re the ones who keep working, keep evolving, and keep showing up until the industry has no choice but to pay attention.

Your walk is still fire. Your face is still money. Your energy is still unmatched. So what if you didn’t walk this season? Next season, they might be begging to book you.

Believe that.



SUPPORTING PARTNERS

CreativeLensLogo.png
LOGO-NY-FINAL-OK.png
Cupcake Logo.png
Sponsor Logo - Veronica.png
logo-hero.webp
Hairbyebony.png
BYou_White_Logo copy2.png
logo.png
HD Oil.png
Rise Fashion Events Logo.jpg

SUBSCRIBE TO GET EXCLUSIVE UPDATES!

Thanks for subscribing!

FOLLOW US

  • Instagram
  • Youtube
  • Facebook
  • TikTok
  • X

MON-FRI: 9AM-5PM

SAT-SUN: CLOSED

© 2024 Rise NYFW, LLC, All Rights Reserved. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Rise NYFW.

bottom of page