The difference between charitable and non charitable fashion shows

[TeenHelp]

The difference between charitable and non charitable fashion shows
By Chantal (MsNobleEleanor)

Charitable and non charitable fashion shows are very different from one another, and this article will explain the differences. A typical fashion show portrays certain model body types due to the growing stigma in weight and how they focus on an overall appearance of the models. Charitable fashion shows do not have the same emphasis on models that are in runway shows for a charity event or fundraiser. This article will explore a personal experience behind the scenes of a charitable fashion show and what they do emphasize on.

Difference between fashion shows and charitable fashion shows
We have seen many magazines portraying the 'perfect' image and then there is more pressure on everyone's appearance including how much a model should weigh. This is no different to models who are in fashion shows. Keep in mind that not all fashion shows focus on body type, appearance, and other factors; we normally do not see this as often in charitable fashion shows. What we see is the start of a damaging cycle of stigma around our appearance as well as the pressures from fashion shows and other sources.

A charitable fashion show does do casting calls where many attend and the designer makes the choice to pick the person to showcase their designs. The designer is more flexible in who they choose, as these models are volunteering and aren't being paid to model. A charitable fashion show has a variety of age groups from five years old to adulthood, and they come in all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds.

Casting calls
When a casting call is announced, models who would like modelling experience attend. Most of the models are completely new and have never been in a runway show before. Depending on where the casting call is being held, some will travel to audition. Most will make it to the second audition if they have one. The designers also choose backup models in case they need a model to go on last minute if a model becomes sick or is unable to attend. Very rarely, a model that is shown in shopping catalogues or in advertisements would audition, but this can happen.

Some designers usually use the same models as they are either family or friends. These designers are usually small but already know others to model their designs so they don't do casting calls.

Why are charitable fashion shows different?
A charitable fashion show does not worry too much about appearance or body types. They need models who are all volunteers who are comfortable walking on stage. The purpose of the charitable fashion show is to raise funds for a foundation or charity supporting an organization. When people attend, they buy tickets to support the charity. Designers aren't paid to be there either; designers attend charitable fashion shows because it is a way to show their new trend and brand so people can buy their brand. The organisers and participants of the fashion show are all volunteers and all profits made go directly to the charity.

Designers
To make a fashion show be successful, it's important to reach out to designers and ask if they would like models to wear their designs. Designers also choose the models to wear the clothing and make last minute changes to the clothing. Additionally, they choose how they want the model's hairstyle, make-up, jewelry to be; they usually share photos with the hairstylists and make-up artists. Ultimately, it's up to the designer how they would like the models to look with their designs. This is because some outfits are best with certain make-up or hairstyles.

Make-up artists, hairstylists, and jewelry
Having make-up artists, hairstylists and jewelry is a really important aspect for the designers because the models are showing the latest designs and creative expressions that the designers have made. All three work together to ensure it matches the designer's clothing. By working together, all three are able to promote their business and product to any interested guests.

Photographers
An important role during charitable fashion shows is having media to include of the runway show. This would include the models posing wearing the designer's clothing. Another area that is important is backstage photos of the models getting ready. These would show make-up artists and hairstylists working away to transform the model. As mentioned above, this also allows the make-up artists and hairstylists to showcase their work for their own portfolio.

The photographers will also share the photos with the founder of the charitable fashion shows so they can add it to their website, social media, and possibly TV. Just like the make-up artists and hairstylists, they can also use the photos for their portfolio.

Promoting local businesses
One of the many benefits to a charitable fashion show is that volunteers dedicate their time, skill, and expertise in hair and make-up, jewelry, and photography. They can branch out to anyone at the show and create business with them; this is a great marketing tool for more work and building their portfolio.

Conclusion
Many say that fashion shows have an art to them, which is revealed when models walk down the runway, showing off the designers' creations. In fact, the entire show has an art to it, from backstage, setting up, to creating the show, all the way to models walking down the runway dressed in designer clothing lighting up the show.