I was excited about being a model for a day, but as the date got closer, nerves kicked in. Here’s how it all unfolded—and why it was worth it
I recently pushed myself out of my comfort zone by volunteering to be a model for a day to help out a friend who is studying fashion styling. At first, I was thrilled at the thought of being a model. Getting to pose in the spotlight and dress up are opportunities that don’t come around very often.
But as the day drew closer, a wave of nerves washed over me. My mind was filled with thoughts: what if I couldn’t pull off the looks? What if my lack of expertise was obvious? The worry grew more intense on the day of the shoot.
An emotional rollercoaster, ranging from excitement to anxiety to, in the end, a deep sense of empowerment and self-discovery.
Artwork courtesy of IM alumna and graphic designer Constanza Coscia
As preparations got underway, I found myself in a whirlwind of activity. The styling team was busy rearranging clothing and accessories while hairstylists and makeup artists worked their magic. Each moment was filled with equal parts of expectation and uncertainty.
My friend’s creative ability was evident in the first outfit I tried on. As I looked at myself in the mirror, I couldn’t help but feel more confident. Stepping onto the set for the first time was both exciting and intimidating. I tried to follow the photographer’s instructions as I attempted to get the ideal pose. While some poses came more easily, others proved more difficult.
The strength of my legs was put to the test when I had to maintain a pose for a long time, especially in heels that seemed to defy gravity. I was determined to give it my all, even though it was physically painful. As we captured moments of creativity and teamwork, every click of the camera felt like a significant accomplishment.
Artwork courtesy of IM alumna and graphic designer Constanza Coscia
Would my efforts meet the team’s standards? Though these doubts were always lingering in the back of my mind, I persisted because I wanted to help my friend and try something fresh. Overcoming shyness and embracing vulnerability was one of the most important lessons I took away from this experience.
Normally, I would run from the spotlight, but being in front of the camera made me face my fears head-on. I noticed I was shedding layers of self-doubt with every pose and wardrobe change.
Beyond the glitz and glamour, the day served as a tribute to the strength of friendship and teamwork. It was so fulfilling to help my friend on her creative journey. I was reminded of the value of following our passions fearlessly and the beauty of artistic expression as I watched her vision come to life through each shot.
Photo by: Irina Okoneshnikova, Styling: Ines Soler, Model: Pilar López NietoThis experience has also permanently impacted my confidence. It strengthened my conviction that I can overcome obstacles and accomplish my goals with perseverance and an optimistic outlook. Being a model for a day was more than just posing for pictures; it was about accepting challenges, pushing limits, and realising my own potential.
In conclusion, my experience spending a day as a model was more than just a fashionable detour; it was an empowering experience that gave me priceless insights into boldness, creativity, and self-belief. I will always treasure that day as a constant reminder that taking a chance can lead to amazing personal development. I now move forward with a greater sense of self-assurance and a deeper appreciation for the modelling and fashion industries.
Pilar López Nieto
Fashion Management, Digital Communication and Media, 2nd year, Milano
A version of this article originally appeared on CLOset, an editorial project created by students from Istituto Marangoni’s Fashion Management, Digital Communication, and Media programme: Selen Yilman (Editor-in-chief), Helga Colichon (Fashion Director), Pilar López (Art Director), Luna Alcantara & Isabela Pereira (Fashion Editors).