Model & Mode

Fashionista Of The Week: Introducing The Fabulous Abiodun Dosu – Staggers Gillyard

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Abiodun Dosu – Staggers Gillyard has been a fashion stylist and image consultant for the past 5 years. Even though she got her Fine Arts degree in Theatre from Hunter College New York, her love for costume design lead her to pursue employment in the fashion industry. Furthermore, the education she received from the Fashion Institute of Technology has guided her in a more organized and applicable way.

Living in NYC has allowed her to work closely with hundreds of models, and designers within the past few years. However, assisting others in doing what comes so naturally to her is what makes her feel fulfilled. That is why she created her blog, AbzStylz. She wanted to provide services for women who needed help in enhancing and expressing their individual styles. She usually posts fashion inspiration, shopping guides, reviews on beauty products that I use, and lifestyle content.

Model & Mode magazine recently had a one on one interview with the talented Abiodun and here’s what happened:

Where do you usually shop?

I love shopping at ZARA, Nastygal, ASOS, and Farfetch.

Are there any hidden gems when it comes to snapping up some awesome designer clothes?

I think shopping sustainably has given me the opportunity to get unique pieces without breaking the bank. I would always suggest thrifting or shopping from sustainable brands that sell designer pieces that are reputable such as The RealReal and Farfetch.

What are your top tips when it comes to fashion for the cooler months?

Fabrics are important in the cooler months, so you would want to wear linen, silk, etc. Also, don’t be afraid of color and fun prints.

Where do you look for creative inspiration?

I always get creative inspiration from content creators on Instagram and Pinterest. Social media is the easiest way to stay up to date on what is trending.

Is it hard to stay fashionable?

It’s not hard to stay fashionable once you have the right pieces in your closet. The key to staying fashionable is to always have classic pieces that always look good on your body type.

How do you walk the line between being unique and having commercial appeal?

When I style models for a magazine or brand website, I like showing how I can subtly transform a look and showing how practical it would be for most people to wear. If it’s not a look that most women will feel comfortable in, I know it will not make much of an impact.

Are there any key trends you’ve seen for this year?

The key fashion trends I’ve been seeing this year are: “Hot Pink” which will be the color this year, wide-leg jeans, and hourglass blazers.

What do you think about the state of fashion today?

There is a sustainable trend happening, and I think fashion brands are now trying to be more ethical in how they create their products. I see that more brands are moving away from fast fashion, and have started to create eco-friendly clothing and accessories. I love that slow fashion has become more popular, which has slowed down fashion seasons and has increased the longevity of our clothing.

What are the clothes we can rid our wardrobes of that are considered very ‘last season’?

Anything that is super tight is out of season. For instance, skinny leather leggings you can give up. However, wide-leg leather pants are still in.

What fashion advice would you give an emerging fashionista?

Do not feel like you have to spend a lot of money to be stylish. Always research where you can get the best deals for designer pieces. Also, try to work with emerging brands that need more exposure. They usually are willing to give you pieces to promote for free once they see your work.

The fashion industry has changed so much in the past few years, what’s the best advice you would give for staying ahead of the curve?

I would suggest that you follow reputable websites that give a fashion forecast on what is going to be trending in the upcoming season. For instance, my favorite lately has been Who, What, Wear. They chart the latest fashion and style trends from the runway, street style, influencers, celebrities, social media, and more.

Featured Event Of The Week: Mrs. Universe Australia & Miss Supermodel Universe

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What: The Mrs. Universe Australia pageant is for the most honourable woman. According to our rules, she must be between the age of 18 to 55, have a family, her own career, and be involved with a significant cause in favour of other people. Our pageant is not just open to married women, it’s also open to divorced or widowed women. The idea that unites them is the motto “against violence” which in different years covers different causes.

The pageant “Super Model Universe” was created with the idea to present new models for the world podium and its best modeling agencies. The pageant’s participation requirements are: Girls 18-27 years, height minimum 175 cm. Boys 18-26, height minimum 180 cm.

Where: Dockside Darling Harbour (2 Wheat Rd, Sydney NSW 2000)

When: Sunday, October 31, 2021, at 6 PM – 9 PM

Tickets: Contact Maryrose Salubre on 0423 710 659

Meet The International Model Behind The Cover Of The August 2021 Issue Of Model & Mode: Robbie Canner

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Robbie Canner is a 63-year-old international model, an international and national judge, and the director and owner of Ms. Australia, New Zealand, and Oceania World Universal as well as Ms. Regal World Universal and Ms. Majestic World Universal. She was crowned Ms. World back in 2018/19, and she’s the reigning Ms. World Universal Elite 2020/21. She’s also a public speaker on the topic “Age Is No Barrier.”

Since winning the Ms. World title, her public profile has considerably grown, allowing her to promote her platform and raise awareness and funds for cancer research. Winning major international titles in her 60’s has given her a platform, showing men and women from all walks of life, that age is no barrier to what anyone can achieve.

Since losing her son to cancer, her emotional and mental stress led her to visit thoughts such as, “I don’t to be here anymore,” or “I want to be with my son,” but eventually her inner strength led her to still want to continue living, have a say and give direction to help others in any area of situational, emotional and mental stress – assuring them that things can get better in time.

She loves chatting to future queens and friends that she meets along her journey and she wants to help them achieve their hopes and goals.

Model & Mode magazine recently caught up with Robbie to discuss her journey in the industry and here’s what went down:

Could you please tell our readers a brief background about yourself?

My name is Robbie Canner and some of the titles I’ve won include Ms. World 2018/19, reigning Ms. World Universal Elite 2020/21 and I have also won Ms. Classic Australia MAQ 2016, Ms. Classic Global United International 2017 Minneapolis USA, and Ms. Global United Lifetime Queen. I’m also a national and international judge, national and international director of my pageant Ms. World Universal, Ms. Regal World Universal, and Ms. Majestic World Universal. Furthermore, I’m a pageant coach and mentor, guest speaker, international model and I have appeared on a number of TV shows.

How did you become an international model? What’s it like to model internationally?

To become an international model on world stages is something I’ve always dreamt about – I was never expecting it to happen. But winning the title of Ms. World at 60 years old certainly made that dream come true. My first runway show was New York Fashion Week and then came National and International magazine covers and stories, radio interviews, and magazine features. To model on the same runway with world supermodels is totally humbling and some I still call my friends. Waiting at the back of the stage before walking on a runway – my nerves were all over the place, I was thinking “what if I stumble or fall off my heels?” but once on in front of world media and stars in the audience, I just wanted more and more. I have had invites to Paris, Milan, South Africa, and Orlando Fashion Week and have been booked again for New York Fashion Week in 2022.

What has been your greatest triumph, to date?

My greatest achievement to date is growing myself to where I am today. There are stepping stones to my journey; like my guest appearance on “Interview” with Andrew Denton on Channel 7 – speaking about my story to a live 200 guest audience brings reality to my dreams and I realized then that I just wanted to open up avenues for others to have opportunities to get to where I am.

What has been your greatest lesson, and how have you used that lesson in your life?

I have learned many lessons in my journey; I learned that age is no barrier to achievements, I learned that I needed to love myself, and I also need to grow out of my personal barriers. When I lost my 22-year-old son to cancer to face a life of total sadness that I have built around myself, I learned to still give dreams a go and that I need to go out and spread this self-growth to help others and support their self-growth.

If you could travel back in time and alter one historical event, where would you go and what would you attempt to change?

I would change my outlook on bullying which I had to deal with at school. I’ll remind myself that bullies are just jealous of who you are and that criticism of self is the best form of flattery. I would want to grow through this adversity and realise that my dreams can be taken away from me so I need to learn to advance my growth through this experience.

What do you think you came into this life to learn, and what do you think you came here to teach?

I came into my life to learn about what I could achieve by just putting my mind to anything in my sight. We have the option of grabbing hold of these opportunities or choosing to let them go. I decided to follow my dreams and now I can teach, mentor, and develop women of all ages through grooming, deportment, public speaking as well as face any adversity head-on.

What projects are you working on right now?

I am presently working on my Ms. World Universal Pageant system, a book, modelling, podcasts, magazine interviews, and one of the most exciting opportunities – I have been approached to film a documentary. The outline for this documentary is underway now and I’m also looking at an international airing so I am so excited.

What would you still like to attempt in your career?

My career is pretty awesome at the moment but some of the things I would still like to achieve are to go on The View, be interviewed by Oprah, or go to lunch with Christie Brinkley. But most of all, I want to stay strong, fit, healthy, and stay on the path of growth.

What advice would you give to those hoping to follow in your footsteps?

Be true to yourself, learn, listen, train, follow your mentors and ask for help from those who can help to place you on the path you wish to follow. At 63 years old, I am still asking for directions from those who are at the top of their game in coaching and development.

Meet The Supermodel Behind The Cover Of The July 2021 Issue Of Model & Mode: The Stunning Joanne Nicolas

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Photographed by Tony Palliser

Joanne Nicolas, the talented, brilliant, and beautiful international fashion model, has established herself as one of the hardest-working supermodels in the modelling industry. She excels in various types of modelling and she’s highly experienced with several years of runway work under her belt.

Having 17 years of experience in the modelling industry mostly in New York and Sydney, she was scouted by Victoria Secret to the VS casting in 2011 New York, and she has modelled for several high profile brands such as Oppo with America’s Next Top Model, Maybelline, Myer, L’Oreal, Vera Wang, Sony, Chanel, Max Mara, Westpac, David Jones, Karl Lagerfeld and many more.

Model & Mode Magazine recently caught up with Joanne to discuss his journey in the modelling and fashion industry and here’s what went down:

Can you tell us more about yourself besides being a model?

I’m a model, solicitor, fitness instructor, and model teacher. I’m also a mother of two boys, Matthew and Nicolas, But one thing is constant in my life; without fail, I’m always making time to exercise because exercise is my way of feeling positive, and a way of life for me. Growing up, I thought maybe being a personal trainer was where my life was heading, because I love sport, and was always an age champion year after year. In fact, I was unbeatable at athletics carnivals and district competitions for long-distance.

I used to be up every day before school at 4 am jogging in our backyard, lap after lap, as my dad’s land is enormous, and there was a track I actually made in the backyard from jogging in the same lap track. I was also doing Aerobics Oz Style following the TV instructor, followed by planks. I travelled to Malaysia at 14 years for netball and my position was a goal shooter. But netball wasn’t my long-term passion though, so it fizzled and I just focused on my HSC and used sport as my way of distressing from studying.

How did you get into the modelling industry?

I got into modelling by always being scouted by agents wherever I went. My mum would take all the cards from agents and throw them because she wanted me to focus on my schooling. I never modelled through school. It was just university study days and I was on my way to the State Law Library by train, first-year university into law, and was scouted by Jo from Beth Models. She stopped me and told me she saw me as supermodel material and she needed me to go upstairs to see Beth and get on their books. She was insistent, and she wouldn’t let me walk away. I finally met Beth, Paul, and they did some Polaroids and got me on their website. They called me later advising me of a Westpac casting to go to, and I only had 4 photos in my portfolio at the time. I wasn’t sure what to do – other models who were there had thick portfolios, so I was shocked when Beth called me to say I got the job. It was my first casting and first job, and all because I was on my way to do my uni essay. But I guess what is meant to be just will be.

What do you like most about being a model?

What I love about modelling is meeting amazing artists, models, designers, casting directors and giving justice to the hard work of designers and brands. I meet designers that have worked so hard on their collections, sometimes over 20 hours straight on one garment.. and I love being able to wear such incredible pieces because, at heart, I love fashion, and it also feels amazing to get that great feedback that the garment sold out, and is on reorder. I also love travelling, and modelling requires a lot of that. Especially in New York. I fit right into the New York scene because I work hard, and work fast.

The downside to being a model?

Being a model means being away from family and friends. I’m a very family-oriented person and was always on Skype, and staying up late to call friends and family in Sydney. I stayed with my best friend in New York, and had a very good group of Church friends in New York and we volunteered with feeding the homeless in New York soup kitchens in my downtime from castings. But deep inside I was always missing my family and friends and boyfriend who is now my husband. The travel can also mess with your body clock and I found it hard to sleep, and by the time you come back to Sydney, you’re then finally sleeping in New York time. There were so many times sleeping tablets crossed my mind but I’m an organic person so I never attempted sleeping tablets.

Another aspect is missing on various occasions because you’re always on call. I’ve missed weddings, christenings, birthdays, family functions because an agent has called and said Jo, I need you there. And I’m so professional and reliable I’m always saying yes. I never said no to my agents in 18 years. Anyone who has ever worked with me knows I ain’t give 100%, I give 1000%. You need to be available, and it’s hard to model alongside having a life. Our babysitter Abby is on speed dial if I’m called to jobs. Another downside is castings as I think castings should be a thing of the past. If photos and videos are recent, it’s such a hassle to get to a casting when they already know your dimensions and your look. They should just hire you. I appreciate jobs and booker’s who just hire without casting.. especially if you’re an established model. I was booked this way through Myer and Oppo with America’s Next Top Model, as well as L’Oreal without casting, and it’s so convenient and I love these guys for casting me.

Years ago, I travelled to Queensland for the Brisbane fashion week casting and paid travel and accommodation just to attend a casting. I remember suggesting if I can just send a video but they wanted to see the model in person. it’s Moreno video these days, but back when I started modelling, video reels just weren’t the thing..models these days have it easy.

What has been the most memorable experience of being in the modelling industry so far?

My most memorable experience so far is when I was scouted by Victoria’s Secret for the VS Fashion show 2011. I was super nervous to meet John Pfeiffer, and he wished me a Happy Birthday as I had just turned 26. And also meeting Ed Razek, the CEO of Victoria’s Secret. For people in such high positions, I found them to be incredibly grounded which is a quality I love. I also loved the night of modelling with Oppo with America’s Next Top Model, because everything just ran smoothly, and professionally, and I met a fellow model Sarah, who is a friend for life. She’s an awesome model and awesome friend.

Who have been the most interesting people you’ve met so far?

That question is a tough question, there are so many interesting people I’ve met so far. Nyle De Marco was super interesting and motivating because he’s deaf! and a lot of people hide behind little insecurities and their disabilities, not abilities, and yet he got out there and won America’s Next Top Model 2015. That takes courage. I loved modelling with him when America’s Next Top Model visited Australia and Mame Adjei. Also, Pedro Virgil, a fellow judge on Elite Supermodel Australia 2021. I met him earlier in 2021, and our passion for renovating was something we got on like a house on fire about. I hope I get the chance to actually shoot with him because I’m keen to experience his shooting style. Also Mike Ilagan, he does so many things, and I admire him because he does them all so successfully.

What has been the most valuable lesson you’ve learned while in the modelling industry. This can be about the industry or about yourself.

To be my own best friend and own cheerleader. I’ve learned to keep happy in my own company if I’m overseas, or if I never got a job. You can’t get every job, but you just need to do your best at castings and stay happy even if you don’t get the job. There are only a few selected spots so it’s not something to fret over.

Is your family supportive of you being a model?

My family initially wasn’t supportive. My parents are very academically driven, and it took time before they accepted modelling as part of my life. I was scouted by Delpha Ramos from Elite Models in New York, and my mum would only allow me to go after finishing Law. I became a solicitor by age 22 and focused on my marks as I was needing to get good grades to maintain my scholarship. I then finished Law and went to New York and my family by this stage were my number one supporters. I had a casting for a Myer TVC and my mum said “I pray you get it.” I love the fact they came around because it’s who I am. I feel I was born to be this person.

If you could go back in a time machine to the time when you were just getting started, what would you do differently?

I wouldn’t change a thing. I have given every grain of my energy, being and put 1000% in. I have practiced my walk until my feet had blisters and bled. I have practiced posing until my body ached in pain.. but it’s worth it when you have a shoot done in just 4 photos and the photographer shakes your hand and says you belong in Milan, or your posing is phenomenal. I have worked so incredibly hard, and I could not change a thing. I can’t have given any more than what I have given, because that was my all every minute over the last 18 years.

9. What is the best advice you have ever been given?

The best advice I’ve ever been given was by Trish McSkimming at the beginning of my modelling career. She told me to put my money on property. I modelled for her jewellery collection and I appreciate someone giving me advice they would give to their own daughter.

What are your future plans? Inside your career or out of it.

My future plans are always in God’s hands. But if it were up to me, I would love Australia to bring back Australia’s Next Top Model and me judge alongside Gemma Ward as I love Gemma Ward. I love everything about the role description I experienced with Elite Supermodel and would love to do that on a televised level. I’m very content with my boys but would love to have a little girl. I think my family would be complete with a little girl.

Also, renovations is something I’m doing almost 100% of the time. I’m currently adding an indoor swing to my son’s bedroom. I’m working on a few projects which I’m hoping to finalise by my 20th odd year of modelling. I keep low heads down and bums up and just work and work until projects are finished and it’s time to surface, breathe.

Meet The Model Behind The Cover Of The June 2021 Issue Of Model & Mode: The Stunning Marona Tanner

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Cover Photography by: i2frame_photography

Marona Tanner is a Sydney-based Model. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Visual Communication majoring in 3D Animation and Graphic Design, as well as certificates in both Screen Acting and Finance. It was her family’s move to Australia that kickstarted Marona Tanner’s successful modeling career. Her stunning beauty, a result of her Egyptian heritage, drew the admiration of anyone she came across with, and for good reason. Besides being a full-time model and a high-profile Instagram star with more than half a million followers, Marona also possesses an acting degree, she’s a sculptor and an animator who can speak 3 languages; English, Arabic, and French. She has modelled for high profile brands such as Abyss By Abby, Do You Even, Lorna Jane, Freddy, Fashion Nova, JD Sports, L’Oréal, Lonsdale, and many more so it’s safe to say that Marona is a force to be reckoned with in the fashion industry.

Model & Mode Magazine recently caught up with Marona to discuss her journey in the modeling industry and here’s what went down:

How did you get into the modeling industry? How were you actually ‘discovered’?

Since I’ve moved to Australia, I feel like I have been guided by almost every person I come across to do modeling as a full-time job.

Photographed by @i2frame_photography

What do you like most about being a model?

Getting to meet creative people from all around the world. I’ve modeled for a lot of overseas brands so it’s been absolutely amazing dealing and working with many creative minds.

The downside to being a model?

I guess modeling in Australia can be a bit challenging which is why it’s very important for professional models to broaden themselves and have agencies in different countries.

What do you like most when it comes to partnering with various brands?

Networking and building strong relationships with small and big brands.

Photographed by @dacshots

What do you post on Instagram the most?

Mostly about fashion and style.

What’s your favourite part about being a model/influencer?

Being able to promote the latest trends in the fashion world.

What advice would you give emerging influencers when it comes to the importance of quality and original content?

Most brands these days prefer real-life images of people, not necessarily from your typical skinny models with long legs. Nowadays, what’s really working well are real people with beautiful curves. That’s what I call being original.

Photographed by @dacshots

Working in an industry whose only emphasis is on the outside characteristics of a person, how have you stayed grounded?

I appreciate people who put effort into their appearance. However, real beauty is what comes within and nothing can beat that!

Is your family supportive of you being in the modeling industry?

Yes.

What are your future plans? Inside your career or out of it.

Star in a movie at one point, buy a new house and a boat.

The ‘LIGHTNING FAST’ Round:

1. Last good movie I’ve seen: Brain on fire. I also appreciate Hot Fuzz and the Dress Maker.

2. What do you consider beautiful? A good soul.

3. What haven’t you done yet that you wish you could? We all have dreams. However, I like to take one step at a time.

Photographed by @dacshots

4. Complete this sentence: “If I had no fear, I’d…” swim far/deep in the ocean

5. What is the one “flaw” you wouldn’t change about yourself? How stubborn I am, guess I’m stubborn about that too.

Photographed by JESSICA CUDA
Model MARONA TANNER
Hair ANDI ASMARO
Makeup MAKEUP BY DREW

How to be a Successful Fashion Designer, If You’re Struggling

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There is no exact requirement for you to become a professional fashion designer. However, you have to have the skill to draw, create new designs and sew. Without these three important aspects in your life then it would become difficult to tackle the pressure in the fashion industry. Furthermore, knowledge about the fashion industry is also important. Here are 5 simple ways to help you succeed in the fashion industry.

Knowing your skill, interests, and capabilities

Drawing and foreseeing your artwork in a three-dimensional aspect is not enough to become a good fashion designer. Instead, you should know your capabilities when it comes to sewing, identifying fabrics, and the type of cuts you should do when making your product. If you feel that you lack knowledge about it then going to fashion school is imperative.

Before making any product, be sure to know what you wanted to make. Examples of which are apparel for men, women, formal or casual attire, bridal wear, sports, outdoor, and so on. Try to incorporate your personal likes and refrain from copying other artists ’ designs. Put your personality in your creation. In that way, you are also creating your own trademark and will tell your future consumers how to identify your designs.

Wear your own creation

If you are a novice in the fashion industry, the one thing that you can do to make people notice your creation is by wearing it. You can also save a lot of money or expenses when hiring models to wear your clothing line.

Be professional

You should always think of making a good impression especially when you are meeting some big names “designers, publishers, event organizers and so on”. Being professional at your work informs other people how serious you are. Another aspect of professionalism in the fashion industry is not to be afraid of criticism and accept it wholeheartedly. Do not be discouraged by what other people say about your design because you are being unique instead explain calmly about your design and what you think about it. Also, don’t discriminate against other designs.

Dress to Impress

When you want your work to be noticed as soon as you walk in then always make sure that you are wearing your best products. Be ready to tell the media about your design or the story behind it. It will make your customer become curious about your style and products.

Be confident

When you wear your own product, you are also creating new trends. Walk confidently and positively but not to the extent that you see other designs pitiful. Remember that being shy in the fashion industry does not make you famous. You have to learn how to talk about yourself and your fashion statements.

Creating new trends is not the same as modeling. However, it would be the best way to endorse your product to the public because you will be able to discuss your experience in making the product. It can also help you save a lot of expenses and keeps you unique all the time.

5 Simple Tips That’ll Give You Clearer Skin… For Essentially FREE

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It’s important to take care of yourself. And one way of taking care of yourself is to take care of your skin. The old saying goes, “if you look good, you feel good.” But unfortunately, many of the products that are touted as being good for the skin are expensive, making establishing a skincare regimen difficult. But the good news is, there are things you can do – and not do – that will help you improve the condition of your skin without spending a small fortune on various creams and lotions.

Read on for some tips on how to get clear skin for essentially free.

Rinse Your Face Using Cold Water

Using cold water instead of hot water to rinse your face has certain benefits. Cold water can help to refresh your skin and reduce inflammation, but it can also reduce any puffiness and helps to tighten your skin. An added bonus is that the temperature of the water can help to wake you up first thing in the morning.

Go Without Makeup

The standard for beauty seems to dictate that women ought to wear makeup as often as is possible, but it’s also important to occasionally have a few makeup-free days to allow your skin the space it needs to breathe and regenerate. And when you do wear makeup, always make sure to completely rinse it off at the end of the day, so it doesn’t compact and clog your pores.

Don’t Touch Your Face

This one should be easy enough to follow in the time of COVID-19. Keep your hands away from your face as much as possible, as your hands are covered in bacteria that can cause breakouts, or worse. And if you find that you must touch your face, wash your hands first.

Clean Makeup Utensils

It may seem obvious, but if you let your makeup brushes go too long in between cleaning, they will provide a safe haven for bacteria, oil, and other pieces of cellular debris that may cause irritation or infection if repeatedly brushed over your skin.

Take Appropriate Caution When You Sleep

If possible, change your pillowcase as often as you change your sheets, since the fabric can trap dirt and oil, potentially causing irritation and inflammation. And if changing your pillowcase isn’t a possibility, try to remain sleeping on your back, so as not to expose your face to the potential skin blemish dangers of your pillowcase.

A Final Word

Taking care of your skin is important. And it sounds like it has the potential to be complicated, having to use a bunch of fancy soaps, creams, and lotions, but really, the secret to clearer skin is taking care of not only your skin itself, but what comes in contact with your skin, like bedding, makeup utensils, and your hands. If you are intentional about the products you use, how frequently – or infrequently – you use them, and the state in which they’re kept, you’re well on your way to having clear skin for free.

Models 101: Five Ways To Kickstart Your Modeling Career

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Pursuing the modeling dream is never an easy undertaking. The road towards the top will be filled with challenges, with many people giving up before they reach the reality of what they have always dreamed of. Whether you would like to pursue a career in modeling, you will be facing stiff competition. In some instances, you will end up being frustrated and with low confidence. With this in mind, keep on reading and learn from some of the tips that we will be sharing which will help you in reaching your dream of becoming a successful model one day.

Undergo extensive training

Before you even start with auditions and going to casting calls, the first thing that you have to do is to undergo extensive training in modeling. There are some schools offering formal training to those who would like to harness their skills. Even at home, you can practice with the help of online modules and tutorials. This will help you to be familiar with the various modelling techniques.

Create a kickass portfolio

This is specifically the case for those who have big dreams to have a career in modeling. This will serve as your resume. Your portfolio will demonstrate how you look in front of the camera and will make it easier for agents to assess whether they should accept you or not. It should be made in such a way that it will be able to highlight what you can do and offer. This will be a tool for marketing yourself, so make sure that it will be convincing enough.

Find a reputable agency

You should also exert effort in finding a reputable talent agency. The agent will make it easier for you to land gigs in the future. Their extensive network will also increase the likelihood of creating a name for yourself. You just have to make sure that you are working with a legitimate agent.

Go to casting calls

This is another important thing if you want to have a successful modeling career. Be proactive in looking for potential auditions. Before auditioning, make sure that you are fully prepared. Get enough rest, and as it has been earlier pointed out, practice so that you can deliver an impressive performance.

Never Lose Hope

This is perhaps the best to keep in mind as you pursue your modeling dream. Rejection is part of the game, which will make you frustrated. This, however, should not be areas on to give up. If you fail once, ask yourself what happened and use this as a launchpad to be better. Learn from your past mistakes. Use it as a motivation to be better.

Featured Event Of The Month: Lux Cruise Fashion Show

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What: Lux is hosting an exclusive fashion show on April 30 and this is an event that’s not to be missed!

The one-of-a-kind fashion extravaganza will include bubbly and canapes followed by an epic neon-themed fashion show inspired by Victoria’s Secret. There will also be a red carpet and media wall set against an amazing backdrop of a luxury boat. We invite you to join us on this exclusive cruise fashion show where fashionistas and socialites can mingle and enjoy the incredible atmosphere created by the Lux team.

Dress code: Neon theme

Limited spots are available for this one-of-a-kind cruise fashion show that you don’t want to miss out on!

Where: Star City Casino Wharf (Pirrama Road, Pyrmont, NSW 2009)

When: Friday, 30 April 2021 (7:00 pm – 11:00 pm AEST)

Tickets: You can purchase tickets via this link

Meet The Beauty Behind The Cover Of The March 2021 Issue Of Model & Mode: The Stunning Abi Grigsby

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Abi Grigsby, the beautiful, charming, and angelic model has established herself as one of the hardest-working models in the industry. She initially got into the modelling industry by entering beauty pageants. She first joined the Top Model of the World Philippines pageant back in July 2016 within 2 weeks’ notice. The pageant needed a certain number in order for the competition to go ahead and she was contacted by the director of the pageant to join. She eventually became the second runner-up, which shocked her as she had no previous experience at all in pageants sho she wasn’t even expecting to make it into the Top 5.

The following year she entered a pageant called “Mutya Ng Pilipinas Australia” (Pearl of Australia) beauty pageant. She gained a lot of exposure in the modelling industry by joining this pageant which lead her into me meeting the majority of the photographers that she now works with regularly. When she competed overseas she also gained several contacts with various modelling agencies and photographers over there and throughout 2017 she also competed in the Miss International Australia pageant where she finished as Second Runner Up, as well as winning the Miss Model of the World Title. Furthermore, she competed in the Miss Teen Universe Australia pageant in December of that year. All of these competitions lead her to meet so many creatives in the industry; photographers who were looking for fresh faces to shoot, as well as makeup artists who needed a model to work on for skill enhancements. Slowly, through these connections, she was able to build the network that she currently has.

Model & Mode magazine recently caught up with Abi to discuss her journey in the modelling industry and here’s what went down:

What do you like most about being a model?

The thing I enjoy most about being a model would have to be the newfound confidence that I have gained over the years as a model. I was someone who really used to struggle with self-esteem issues, but it wasn’t until I started modelling that I came to accept and be happy with how I look, and the person that I am.

I have also been fortunate enough to work with various creatives who each provided a different style for each shoot, which has given me the option to explore with different looks. I started modelling For Milliner’s designs in late 2018, my first designer being Anna Bella Millinery, who is based in London. I modelled at the Melbourne Derby Day, showing off her dress designs and her hats with other models. I also modelled for Felicity Northeast Milliner for her spring collection in 2019, which was featured in Mornington Peninsula magazine.

I had never modelled such high-class designs before, so this experience itself really helped me feel comfortable in my own skin, and opened me up to another world!

The Downside to being a model?

The downside to being a model that I have encountered would have to be that people tend to make assumptions about you and your personality when you tell them that you’re a model. I’ve had a lot of people tell me that they thought I’d be a snobby/conceited person because of the fact that I model, rather than taking the time to get to know me first.

A lot of people will make assumptions about you based on your profession, but I try not to let this bother me and stay focused on what I want by working hard and not allowing room for distractions.

Another downside is that many people who aren’t in the industry assume that modelling is easy, or requires little to no effort at all. To be a model takes great perseverance and determination, as many models such as myself face constant rejection and negative comments about our appearance/body. It takes a lot of work to get into the industry, which is something that many people look over. It can get discouraging at times, but I find it’s best for myself to always remind myself of the hard work I have gone through, and to realise that I don’t owe everyone an explanation.

What has been the most memorable experience of being in the modelling industry so far?

Thinking back to when I started, I can’t actually pinpoint an exact memory from modelling that has stuck with me. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed every step, but the most memorable experience of being in the modelling industry would have to be the whole experience that comes on the day of a photo shoot. I live an hour and a half away from Melbourne city, which is where the majority of my shoots takes place. I always enjoy the travel into the city, as well as travelling to where my photoshoots take place, as the majority of the time it is not at the same place. Aside from the travel, I do enjoy dressing up and getting glammed up for my shoots. I feel most like myself when I am dolled up and in front of the camera!

Who have been the most interesting people you’ve met so far?

I’d say the most interesting people I’ve met would have to be some of the photographers and makeup artists that I meet while I’m on set. Many of the creatives that I work with are a lot like me, they often take up photography/makeup as a side job, rather than their full-time job. It’s nice to meet people who are similar to you, and share similar interests while also working other jobs, and working incredibly hard so they are able to project themselves further in the industry.

What has been the most valuable lesson you’ve learned while in the modelling industry. This can be about the industry or about yourself.

The most valuable lesson I have learned would be to not compare myself to others. Before I began modelling I never thought I would have a chance, as I compared myself to many other high profile models, such as Miranda Kerr. I always assumed that because I didn’t look like these girls I saw in billboards and commercials that I wouldn’t make it at all in the modelling world.

However as continued on and booked more jobs, I realised that every different look will serve a purpose for each job/photographer. There will always be someone out there who will need a look like yours for a certain job/promotion, so I’ve learned that I shouldn’t bother worrying about looking like someone else when looking exactly the way you do is more than enough.

Is your family supportive of you being a model?

Yes, fortunately, my family is very supportive of my modelling! My mother wanted me to start modelling when I was 13, however, I had very little confidence back then and I was also very shy. I did not see myself as someone who could get far in the industry at all, and I also at the time had assumed that people would think of me as very conceited if I started modelling. I didn’t have a very positive view of the modelling world, or of models themselves, which was a real deterrent for me at that time.

As the years went by and as I developed a love for beauty pageants, it also shifted my focus onto modelling, and it wasn’t until I started my first few photoshoots that I really started to enjoy what I was doing, and then made the decision to go as far as I possibly could in the industry.

If you could go back in a time machine to the time when you were just getting started, what would you do differently?

The main thing I would do differently would be to not jump at every opportunity that comes my way, no matter how big of a deal it may seem to be at first. I used to do this a lot when I first started in the industry, and I would just throw myself out to any opportunity that came my way, without thinking things through clearly. This resulted in a lot of waste of time and money for myself, as I was promised certain jobs would lead to very high exposure/good money, while actually resulting in none of that.

So if I could go back in time, I would tell myself not to rush things too much and to take it slow. Not every opportunity is what it claims to be, and when the time is right, the right opportunity will come!

What is the best advice you have ever been given?

The best advice I have ever been given is to take my time. Often I’ve been really impatient and have compared myself to others who have gotten further in the industry in a shorter amount of time. I’m fortunate to have a close group of friends who support me fully and encourage me to remain patient and on track, and who assure me that things will work in my way if I continue to remain focused and not be put off by others in any way.