Fashion models tend to keep a poker face during runway shows. This is because they believe that maintaining an emotionless facade will help them to accentuate the clothing they are modeling.
From a professional standpoint, a model who smiles during a show could be perceived as showing off and putting their designer on trial. They want to appear unshakable and otherworldly, which is why they do not smile.
1. They Want to Look Aristocratic
During fashion shows, models are there to showcase the clothing line that they are wearing. Smiling at the audience can take away from their main goal which is to show off the clothes. This is why models are told not to smile during their runway walk.
Instead, they are expected to carry a stern look during their walk. This is because it helps to convey the idea that they are high class and are not willing to take any nonsense from anyone. It also helps to create the impression that they are confident in the clothes that they are wearing which is what designers want.
In addition, a stern face can also help to make the models look fashionable. This is because it is a type of look that has been associated with aristocracy and royalty for centuries. In fact, if you look at historical portraits, you will notice that most of the people who appear in them do not smile.
Another reason why models do not smile during their runway walks is that it can give the wrong impression about their confidence level. Designers want their clothing to give the wearer a sense of confidence, and smiling during the show can send the opposite message. In addition, it can also be perceived as insecure or uncertain about the clothes.
In contrast, models who smile often tend to have a more relaxed and happy demeanor. This is because they are more likely to be working in fields where they are not being judged for their appearance. It may also be a sign of their own confidence in themselves. In addition, many models have said that they feel more comfortable when they smile.
2. They Want to Look Confident
The most obvious reason why fashion models do not smile during fashion shows is because they want to look confident. A fashion show is all about showcasing the latest trends and it is important for the models to look like they have confidence in what they are wearing. A smile can easily distract people from the clothing, so the models choose to keep a straight face in order to accentuate the clothes more effectively.
In addition to looking confident, a straight face also helps models look more professional. Many fashion designers do not allow their models to interact with the audience during the show, so they need to be able to stand still and not smile. If a model smiles during a fashion show, it may be perceived as a mocking of the designer’s work, which is not something that designers want.
Keeping a poker face also allows the models to maintain a consistent appearance throughout their career. This is important because it allows the models to develop a brand image that can be used across various photo shoots and runways. In addition, a straight face also makes the models appear more sophisticated and elegant, which is another quality that many fashion designers look for in their models.
Even though there have been a few instances of fashion models smiling during a fashion show, it is generally frowned upon by the fashion industry. In addition to not smiling, fashion models must practice good sleep habits and exercise in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This allows them to stay in shape and remain mentally agile while juggling a number of projects at once. In addition, it is important for fashion models to avoid smiling in pictures because they do not want to be seen as cheesy or fake.
3. They Want to Look Cool
Fashion models are expected to be confident and to maintain a straight face during shows, which is why they usually do not smile. If they did smile, it would steal attention away from the clothing and distract viewers. It also gives off the impression that they are not confident about what they are wearing, which can be a turnoff for some people.
However, there are some instances when you can see a model smile on the runway. In the past, models have shown a bit more personality in their outfits and have smiled when the designer pops up to present them with flowers or gifts. In addition, some designers, like the late Sonia Rykiel, were known for their fashion shows in which models laughed and smiled.
But, the majority of fashion shows are no-smile zones. So, why is that?
In a world where fashion is always pushing the boundaries, it seems counterintuitive that the models themselves are not allowed to show any emotions. While many people believe that fashion models are not smiling because they do not enjoy their jobs, it is actually a more complex issue.
According to experts, modeling is a very stressful job. The constant posing and walking in high heels can be physically and emotionally taxing, which is why it is important for them to prioritize their resting times. They also need to find ways to relax their minds and avoid stress, which is why they do not smile.
Furthermore, it is also very important for models to follow the instructions of their employers. If they do not follow the guidelines of their employers, they may risk losing work and sabotaging their careers. Therefore, they have to keep a serious face at all times.
4. They Want to Look Stylish
From a professional standpoint, it is best for fashion models to not smile during their runway walks. This way, they do not distract the audience from the clothing that they are wearing. A smile could also invite interaction from the audience which is something that many designers do not want. Additionally, fashion models are often required to wear incredibly bizarre outfits (think cone-shaped traffic lights for Jeremy Scott’s Moschino collection), and smiling may make them look like they are laughing at how ridiculous the clothes are.
Instead, a non-smiling model can show that they are serious and that they think the designer’s clothing is awesome. This will make the audience more likely to buy the clothes as they will feel confident that the models themselves are able to pull off these outrageous outfits without even cracking a smile.
Fashion models are meant to be envied and a smile on the runway can make them appear less stylish. A glare or blank expression is the way to go when you are walking down the runway, and it will make your outfit look chic and modern.
As a result of this, more and more models are choosing to not smile on the runway. This might have something to do with the fact that they are worried about looking dated or like they are not keeping up with current trends. Either way, it is certainly a change from the days of Naomi Campbell and Linda Evangelista who were always smiling on the runway and in campaigns. However, the fashion world is constantly changing so who knows what the future holds for fashion models? Maybe they will eventually start to smile again!
5. They Want to Look Uncomfortable
Basically acting as human clothes hangers, models maintain an emotionless face to convey poise and confidence that enhances overall garment presentation. Smiling could distract viewers and portray an expression that isn’t suitable for the particular look. In addition, fashion modeling is a competitive and cut-throat industry where models are judged by their ability to transmit the right vibes and captivate spectators. Anything that detracts from this can cost a model repeat work.
Moreover, most designers want their models to exude confidence and give the impression that the clothing is their own artwork rather than something they’re wearing. Smiling during a fashion show can be seen as mocking the designer’s work, which is not good for business. In addition, it’s often the case that the designer’s outfits are extremely extravagant and over-the-top. If a model smiles during the show, they may appear to be teasing or praising their appearance which can cause confusion for audiences.
This is why models are advised to keep a straight face at all times during a fashion show. It might seem like a very lame reason, but it makes sense. The smile-free approach is popular amongst models because it reflects the fashion industry’s heritage. The serious expression was common in the days of royal portraits, and it is seen as a mark of elegance and class. In addition, it can be a sign of self-confidence and an indication that the model is unfazed by what they are wearing on the ramp. It also shows that the model is not embarrassed by what she is wearing which can be a positive message for the audience who attends fashion shows. This is why some models choose not to smile even in fashion editorials.
