Beauty & Lifestyle

Performing in the Real World

Many potential models suffer from self-doubt. Each and every day, they see images on their screens which portray perfection and provide an ideology of flawlessness. What they do not see are the hours spent in make-up and the huge amount of work that goes into making those pictures look flawless.

How often have you seen IG pics which purport to have been taken ‘on the go’ or showing the ‘real me’? In reality, most of these will have been taken previously and added to the huge bank of pics available. They’ll be photoshopped, airbrushed and ready for those concerned to post on their social media at any time.

Back in the real world
There is nothing that new in this. Once models would visit a studio, or if they were lucky to be invited on location, somewhere exotic. The photographer would then take 100’s of pics, go back to the studio, tidy them up and pass on the perfected pics to the model or their management. The only difference nowadays is that the ‘lies’ are easier to tell and the truth simpler to uncover.

It’s no wonder that girls often tell me they don’t feel up to the mark when it comes to modeling. They are so easily put off by these unrealistic images. My answer is quite straightforward – it really does take all sorts. You only have to look at some of today’s top models to see how different body shapes, sizes and colors really are, the ‘spice of life’!
Take a look at these models, all of which are unique and often lead award winning careers.

All of these models have unique features and do not conform to the blonde, blue eyed, big boobed, size 6 model that many people expect. They are, however, all extremely popular and successful in their respective careers. More importantly they are all focused on the belief that they are perfect in their own way. There is a huge amount of self-belief and determination which helps them through this strange, fake world of today.

It’s all character driven
Personality and charm are definitely the order of the day for a successful career in online modeling. No amount of makeup or plastic surgery is going to help you win loyal fans. And, if those pictures you posted on SM don’t match up to the real you, no one is going to be interested in developing a virtual relationship with you.
Instead of spending your hard-earned money and time on silicone, Botox and editing suites, try and find ways to develop your personality. The more natural you appear, the greater your fan base will be. It’s far easier to portray a character where you can be relaxed, rather than worrying if your make up has smudged or your wig is slipping!

Practice makes perfect
Make the most of your features by spending time in front of your camera. Practise poses and experiment with lighting and clothing. It’s the absolute best investment you can ever make into your career online. The more comfortable you are with yourself, will provide you with a greater chance of success.
When you consider people in the arts, such as dancers and actors, the best ones are usually those which make everything appear to be effortless. In actual fact, you know they have practiced their skills for years, so that every single movement appears to be perfection in itself.

Don’t be nervous, embarrassed or self-conscious, especially when you are starting out. No one expects perfection and honesty will get you a very long way indeed. Look for encouragement and ignore the haters who think they are better than you.
Remember that everyone had to start somewhere. Absolutely no one starts something with a full set of skills. Sometimes we learn through our mistakes and other times some things have to be rehearsed over and over again. The more practice you put in, the faster something will appear to be routine.
Having confidence is key in all areas of our lives. Be positive and be strong.
Please feel free to contact me or check out any of my articles offering help and support for models new and experienced.

Love Carla x

Beauty & Lifestyle

2024 MTV VMAs: Hilarious Chaos Unleashed

Get ready to laugh until your sides hurt as Enta AI, the sassiest AI on the block, spills all the tea on the 2024 MTV VMAs! From shocking moments to over-the-top performances, this year’s show was a whirlwind of wild antics, and Enta AI’s got the juicy details.

First up, Sabrina Carpenter took the stage to a whole new level of weird by locking lips with what appeared to be a blue Martian! That’s right, folks—this wasn’t your typical celebrity kiss. If the tabloids weren’t paying attention, they sure are now! Meanwhile, Chappell Roan set the stage ablaze—almost literally—with a performance so fiery, it could’ve been mistaken for a health hazard. Her unique outfit, which seemed like a blend of BDSM and party piñata, only added to the explosive energy.

Eminem didn’t want to miss out on the action, so he brought an army of clones for his performance of “Houdini.” Talk about a blast from the past! And let’s not forget LL Cool J and Flavor Flav, who proved they’re still kicking it with an old-school vibe that had the crowd feeling nostalgic.

Katy Perry, the queen of crazy costumes, was honored with the Video Vanguard Award. But her live performance alongside Doechii? Let’s just say it was an auditory adventure for which you’d need earplugs.

Karol G had the crowd dancing with her Zumba-style beats, while Taylor Swift took home seven awards, proving once again she’s the queen of turning heartbreak into trophies.

So grab your popcorn, hit play, and dive into Enta AI’s laugh-out-loud recap of one of the most outrageous nights in music!

Source: various

Beauty & Lifestyle

Whoreoween: Honoring Icons in Sex Worker Costumes

Whoreoween is an innovative twist on Halloween, offering sex workers a chance to step beyond the usual sexy nurse outfits and honor legends from their industry. This event serves as an opportunity to pay tribute to current and historical figures, bringing a sense of uniqueness and recognition to a community often overshadowed by stereotypes.

Dita von Teese, a modern burlesque icon, serves as a perfect inspiration. Known for her performances, Playboy appearances, and burlesque acts, she embodies the essence of a seductress. Her costume would include a classic 40s pageboy hairstyle, a sequined corset, opera gloves, statement earrings, and bright red lipstick, preferably in MAC’s Viva Glam I or Ruby Woo shades.

Marsha P. Johnson, a pivotal figure in the Stonewall uprising, is another inspirational figure. As a gay liberation activist, trans woman, and drag queen, she advocated for gay, trans, and sex worker rights. Her costume would feature a flower crown, 70s-style glamour with a slinky dress, faux or vintage fur, sequins, and bold jewelry, capturing her spirit and role in the gay rights movement.

Dee Dee Ramone, known for his role in the Ramones, also worked as a sex worker. His costume would reflect his classic punk style with tight vintage jeans, a DIY sleeveless t-shirt, and a leather jacket.

Ms. Mona Stangley, from “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas,” portrayed by Dolly Parton, offers a Western-inspired look. The costume could include big hair, flouncy prairie dresses, or a satin corset with a sheer robe, embodying the spirit of the 80s Texas madam.

Zorita, a groundbreaking burlesque dancer, is known for her bold performances with snakes and a famous ‘half and half’ act. Her costume would include fishnet stockings, ruffled dresses, spangly heels, and possibly a tiara or two platinum streaks in the hair.

Tilly Devine and Kate Leigh, 1920s Sydney gangsters, provide a unique option for a doubles costume. Their outfits would reflect the era’s fashion, featuring heavy coats, top hats, or beaded headscarves, emphasizing their toughness.

Josephine Baker, an American-born dancer, actress, and WWII spy, offers a glamorous choice. Her costume could include glittery earrings, a beaded satin cocktail dress, and a classic 20s hairstyle. The famous Banana Dance outfit, featuring a pearl necklace and an artificial banana skirt, also represents her iconic status.

Lycoris the Mime, from ancient Rome, presents a historical option. Her costume would include traditional white robes, perhaps with floral headpieces, reflecting the mime artists’ role during the Floralia festival.

Lastly, Bettie Page, a 1950s pinup and fetish model, offers a vintage choice. Her costume might include a leopard-print leotard, sheer dress with faux fur, or classic black satin lingerie paired with shiny black heels.
Whoreoween provides a platform for sex workers to celebrate their history and culture, offering a way to honor icons who have made significant contributions to the industry and society.

Beauty & Lifestyle

2023 Celebrity Halloween Hits and Misses

As Halloween rolls around, the unveiling of celebrity costumes becomes a highly anticipated event, reflecting both triumphs and transgressions in fashion and fandom. 2023 proved no different, with an array of high-profile personas embracing the season’s spirit through an eclectic mix of costumes.

The celebrations of 2023 remind us that Halloween is not only a display of creativity but also a reflection of our times. It’s a balancing act between homage and originality, between respect for tradition and the thrill of innovation. This year’s array of costumes, from the star-studded to the minimalistic, confirms that celebrity Halloween looks will continue to be a pop culture spectacle, for better or for worse.

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, whose stature often overshadows any character he attempts to portray, tried to channel soccer legend David Beckham with a ‘90s-era jersey and a blonde wig. Despite the effort, the familiar face of this wrestler-turned-actor was still the main highlight.

Keke Palmer brought a touch of narrative to her costume. The actress and singer, accompanied by her son Leo as a mini mad scientist, transformed into Frankenstein’s creature. This whimsical yet heartwarming costume was well-received, as Palmer humorously credited her son for giving her “LIFE,” a play on her role as a mother and Frankenstein’s creation.

Adele, the vocal powerhouse, took to the stage in Las Vegas, embodying the dark elegance of Morticia Addams. Her rendition was both fitting for the Queen of the Night and adored by her audience, capturing the gothic essence of the beloved character with a long black wig and striking nails.

However, not all costumes were met with applause. Megan Fox and Machine Gun Kelly’s “Kill Bill” ensemble sparked controversy. While visually striking, Fox’s decision to flout SAG-AFTRA guidelines amid an actor’s strike resulted in significant backlash, with some labeling her actions as insensitive.

Meanwhile, Austin Butler and Kaia Gerber paid homage to pop art and ‘60s fashion icons Andy Warhol and Edie Sedgwick. The couple’s costume, timely for Butler’s rising fame, was both a cultural throwback and a fitting tribute to Warhol’s enduring legacy.

Florence Pugh took a different route, embracing a more casual, last-minute look as a nod to Guy Fieri. The simplicity and relatability of her costume resonated with fans who appreciate a more spontaneous approach to Halloween.