What’s in a model’s tote bag?

This is a question often asked by new models.  As a model, you should always be prepared to work.  This means keeping a bag packed with all of the essentials necessary for a photo shoot or a fashion show.  Some models will carry their “Tote Bags” with them even on go-sees or auditions because you never know when you might get a call form your agency for an immediate booking; and you may not have enough time to go back home for your model’s tools. 

These are the items which you should keep packed in a backpack or small duffel bat – the “Model’s Tote Bag”: 

• Hair brush and comb

• Bobby pins and hair pins

• Rubber bands (to pull your hair up”

• Head bands (for a sporty look) or (to keep hair off forehead while doing make-up)

• Silk scarf (cover your face with this when you are putting on clothes for a fitting or show)

• Hair spray

• Safety pins and straight pins

• Needle and thread

• Scotch tape (removes lint and repairs hems)

• Clear polish (stops a run and brightens nails)

• Nail polish (2 or 3 colors)

• Nail file

• Crazy glue (in case you break a nail)

• False eyelashes with eyelash glue

• Nude pantyhose and off black pantyhose

• Liquid and cream make-up

• Translucent powders (loose or compact)

• Cosmetic brushes

• Eyeliners

• Mascara

• Lipsticks (3 or 4)

• Lip liners eye shadows (3 or 4)

• A mirror (several)

• Earring –hoops, buttons, rhinestones, pearls

• Black pumps and beige pumps

• Neutral flats

• A light cologne (perfume can be too heave)

• Deodorant

• Underarm shields (protect clothing samples)

• Razor (for a quick shave)

• Small portfolio (a condensed version of your regular one – photos can be 4“x6”)

Source: Is Modeling For you? "The Handbook & Guide for the young Aspiring Black Model" by Yvonne Rose and Tony Rose