Journal 2 : Catwalk Capershttp://thestar.com.my/lifestyle/story.asp?file=/2007/3/29/lifearts/17004208&sec=lifeartsModels are said to be difficult, unpredictable and prone to scandal. This is obvious among some models in the international world such as Naomi Campbell. But is it the same scene here in Malaysia? Maybe it is, maybe it isn’t. There are some myths said about models here that are simply untrue. The first myth is models are dumb as they get by on their looks and they aren’t educated and can’t speak English. In my opinion, models are like actors. They ‘act’ in front of the camera. You can’t just sit there and give the cameraman a meaningless pose. To me, having the ability to change facial expressions and poses make them really smart. Not everyone can do that. Also, models not only do catwalks and photo shoots, they become ambassadors of products. This requires them to have good speech patterns. Although this proves they are not dumb, Bernie Chan says modeling is all about looks. It’s a sad and shallow but true statement.
The second myth about models is that they are bitchy, insecure individuals. The world of modeling is like back in high school, where there’s bound to be gossip being spread, jealousy among each other and backstabbing. But not all models tend to bitchy and insecure. It is just part of modeling and it also happens in all industries. Generally, female models do feel the competition between each other but not male models. They are generally more relaxed and happy to help each other.
The third myth is modeling is the shortcut in getting big money. It is common among international models to get at least US$10,000 per show but not here in Malaysia. You have to be at least someone eligible enough to make that kind of money. Malaysian models are lucky if they even get RM2000 for runway shows depending on themselves. Carmen Soo says that it is sad because the rate has remained the same for the last 12 years she has been modeling. In order for models in Malaysia to get big money is either they are lucky enough or they do other jobs such as hosting, acting or singing.
The fourth myth is being in your 20s is old for a model. The modeling industry is really based on appearance only. If you have flawless skin and a body to die for, then you will stay, but if you have some really visible flaws, it’s time to try other things. The truth is, it is not about age but your appearance. So if you are 26 and you still look young and radiant, modeling agencies would want you. Like Anita Mohd says, people in the West like Linda Evangelista still continue to model even though they are in their 40s.
The fifth myth is eating disorders are a fact of life among models. Most models have to have a size zero body in order to fit into the fashion designers’ clothes. Even if you are a size 2, you will spoil the whole concept of the material. This fact does exist but there are other factors that affect the way your body looks. Some models are born with good genes that enable them to burn fat fast. Some have high metabolism. Some also exercise 2 to 3 times a week and eat a healthy diet. What causes some models to develop an eating disorder is because of the pressure from the modeling industry. They are required to have what their modeling agencies want. Though they have tried exercising rigorously and are on a strict diet, some people can’t lose weight that easily so they chose not to eat or throw up after each meal.
The sixth myth is that models are party animals and jumping into each other’s bed is the norm. In the fashion world, it is accustomed to have a glamorous and out-there lifestyle. This perception probably comes from the high life of models from the international scene, namely Heidi Klum, Giselle, Adriana Lima, Iman, etc. Some of them are dating rock stars, billionaires, have their own tv show and party all day and night. Models are exposed to this kind of lifestyle but it is purely up to them. Being a model doesn’t mean your standard of morality is low. Some models live simple lives and do simple things. Not all are party-goers and drinkers.
The last myth is male models are gay. This is totally out of the question because it seems that all male models look gay! In order for males to become models, they have to have great, charming, the pretty-boy look and six pack abs to go with it. But because of their almost perfect, clean shaven look, people always assume they are gay. Not to say that there aren’t any gays, it is just not all male models are gay. People get the wrong assumption and they use the wrong word. It is not gay, but probably metrosexual. It is a new term to describe straight but appearance-conscious men nowadays. They are attracted to the opposite sex but they take care of how they look like women do.
Models are seen in many ways like all the myths above. Some of them are true, and some of them aren’t. Remember that models are human beings too and they are making a living to survive in the working world. It is up to us to see them in a good way or not. My advice is give them a break, guys.
