Claire Kahane, model
Claire, who’s based in London, is an actress, dancer and model. She’s worked as a fit model and models for online stores for a range of major retailers and designers.
How did you get into modelling?
I’m an actress and needed something in between jobs. A friend who I had previously worked with knew her agent was scouting for new girls so she recommended me.
What sorts of brands and retailers have you worked with?
Designer, high street and online stores. I work with Ghost, Hawes and Curtis, Rapha Raching, Musto, ASOS, Ted Baker, LK Bennett to name a few.
What’s a typical day on the job like for you?
If I am fit modelling I will arrive at head office and usually have a cup of green tea. The meetings that day will be with a particular department, like evening wear, then swim wear and this goes on throughout the day. It is different for each brand though and some meetings are longer than others. If i’m modeling for a photographic session I will usually work a full day with the photographer and stylist in the studio.
What do you enjoy most about the job?
The people, the gowns, being a part of the creative process, and of course seeing the designs before they hit the stores is always a plus!
And what’s the worst part?
Luckily for me I can’t think of anything bad about my work as a photographic/showroom/ fit model. I work with lovely people who take care of the models, and I think that’s really important! Having said that, standing up in heels from 9-5pm all day can be a little uncomfortable!
What’s the biggest misconception about working in fashion?
That it’s easy and models are uneducated. I think, in a way, that is similar to working in performing arts, if you take drama it can be seen as the easy way out, but in reality it’s very much the opposite.
What skills and qualities do you think are important for models?
Maintaining good health, doing regular exercise and keeping hydrated. Use good skin care. It’s the models’ responsibility to have good skin and keep the same body measurements, especially for fit modelling. Additionally, being reliable, on time and overall having a fairly nice personality!
What’s your advice for any wannabe models?
Never be late! Always be polite and work hard. Build up a strong reputation and you’ll pretty much guarantee yourself a repeat booking.
