Should have:
At the very least, make sure you always have these few things!
- Analgesic: Ibuprofen, Tylenol, whatever usually helps. You never know when a headache will arise right at the beginning of a shift … and in a noisy bar too!
- Safety pins: These little guys can do just about anything! Use it to turn a normal bra into a racer back. Hold on to a loose uniform or a torn shoe strap. They have a million uses! * Pro Tip: Bring some pin sizes for different needs.
- Band aids: Whether it’s a traitorous shoe that gives you blisters, or a mishap with a chair or table, or even a last minute tattoo to cover up … always have band-aids! You could save a fellow model’s night, if she needs one too!
- Nail Glue / Eyelash Glue: I firmly believe that when I have NO glue is exactly when I lose a nail or a strip of eyelashes. Working without nails or lashes is vulgar, unprofessional, and ultimately embarrassing.
- Deodorant / Lotion / Body Spray: You never know when you may need to freshen up, or realize that your legs might need an extra application of lotion. Sometimes we work long hours; We want to be as fresh as a margarita all day and night!
- Makeup / Lipstick / Hairspray / Makeup Drying Wipes / Your Personal Essentials: While you should always appear looking stellar, keep in mind that life is constantly looking for you and your cuteness! Wet weather and rain can frizz your hair, or sweating on a golf course can cause makeup to run or make your face look greasy. Being prepared for touch-ups will help you not worry about the little things (pun intended!)
Expert level preparation:
While you may not need these items as often, with your bag fully rounded, you’ll be ready for ANYTHING!
- Additional shoes: There is literally NOTHING worse than breaking a heel. Put on some extra shoes! Even if you only need to change in the middle of the night because of the blisters, you will be happy to have them!
- Instant Stain Remover Pen (like a Tide-To-Go Pen): This one has really saved me while working in crowded bars. If someone spills something on your uniform, go to the bathroom … Tide pen to the rescue!
- Black tank top / white tank top: You may think having your uniform is enough, but you NEVER know what could happen! Having a cute and simple tank top can save the day!
- Nude bra adjustable to any garment: Invest in a work bra that can be worn in multiple ways: racer back, strapless, strapless. If you end up with a sudden uniform change, you’ll be prepared! Nobody looks very good with their bra straps in plain sight!
- Feminine products: Even if you don’t expect to need them, ALWAYS have them. This one, again, can really save another model in need of it too! We can always help a sister!
- Battery charger for your phone: Battery packs are now thin, light, and fairly inexpensive. There is nothing worse than being outside with a phone that is dead, and you may forget to check the battery level before leaving the house.
