If the thought of sashaying down the catwalk clad only in the latest haute couture shimmer appeals to you, then it's time to pause for a reality check.
There are probably fewer than 100 full-time fashion models based in Ireland. It is a glamorous well-paid career if you make it to the top but most would-be models find it hard to break even in the first year with their outlay on photographs, make-up and accessories outweighing their income.
So, what to do if you find the allure of the lens and the world of high fashion is too strong to resist? There are no courses listed in the CAO handbook but many models - female and male - will be found on third-level courses while they pursue modelling careers in part-time mode.
The most important step for most models is getting on the books of a reputable agency. The agencies E&L talked to were all of the opinion that prospective models don't need to invest major money in grooming, makeup or a portfolio of professional photographs to do this.
Rebecca Morgan, of the Morgan Brand Agency, says: "All I need to see is an ordinary good clear snapshot...clear skin with maybe a little makeup. Clotheswise, I'm not fussed, the most important thing is that they are comfortable." She is not keen on getting professional photos which can often be "stiff and awkward as they feel under pressure - I can see the potential from a snapshot.
"They should send the photos in and I give them an honest appraisal." If she's interested, Morgan calls the applicant for an interview. Again, she says the look should be clean and fresh. Candidates should also inform themselves about the fashion industry and the various labels. If she thinks the applicant has potential Morgan take polaroids and starts the process of introducing the new face to photographers, stylists and key clients.
At Assets, agent Derek Daniels asks that prospective models do not send in photographs. Assets holds an open day every Wednesday from 10.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. No appointment is needed. If you are under 17 years, you should bring a parent.
Echoing Morgan's plea for a fresh clean look, Daniels says applicants should come in "quite natural looking...they don't have to wear high heels and loads of make-up". Many models begin their careers at very young ages but Daniels sensibly suggests that students who are in an exam year concentrate on their exams. Transition Year would be a good time to start your investigations. Applicants to the third major agency, Third Options, should phone and make an appointment, says Trish O'Farrell. There is no need to send a photograph in advance. Those under 16 must have their parents' consent. Third Options concentrates on fashion shows, editorials and photoshoots as well as having a small commercial section, says O'Farrell.
If you are one of the chosen ones, then you can expect some training in basic grooming and make-up. You must work on developing a portfolio which will contain photos and "tear sheets" from magazines. The agency will usually recommend a photographer.
As to diet, Morgan laughs at the idea of subsisting on a lettuce leaf, saying a healthy diet and good toning exercises are sufficient. She says the too-skinny look often seen in haute couture in Paris is "disgusting and unattractive". As an agency they would not recommend girls to follow this route. She says that modelling does have its pitfalls - drugs and anorexia among others - but like any other industry, it's up to people to use their common sense.
Is there life after modelling? Models now work on into their thirties but Morgan says most models give up modelling before it gives them up. "It is a very good broad training, very sociable, developing interpersonal skills," she adds, so many ex-models can be found in public relations, acting, in other areas of the fashion business, such as buying. One girl became a financial consultant, she says, and many of the them have college degrees.
