Should have:
At a minimum, make sure you always have these few things!
- Analgesic: Ibuprofen, Tylenol, whatever usually helps. You never know when a headache will strike right at the start of a shift…and in a noisy bar!
- safety pins: These little guys can do just about anything! Use it to turn a regular bra into a racerback. Pin a loose uniform or a torn shoe strap. They have a million uses! *Pro Tip: Bring a few sizes of pins for different needs.
- Band aids: Whether it’s a sneaky 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 can save a fellow model’s night, if she needs one too!
- Nail glue/ Eyelash glue: I am a firm believer that when I have NO glue that is exactly when I lose a nail or a strip of eyelashes. Working with missing nails or eyelashes is tacky, unprofessional, and ultimately embarrassing!
- Deodorant/Lotion/Body Spray: You never know when you might need a refresh or notice that your legs need an extra application of lotion. Sometimes we work long hours; we want to be as fresh as a daisy all day and night!
- Makeup/Lipstick/Hairspray/Makeup Blotting Wipes/Your Personal Essentials: While you should always look stellar, keep in mind that life is constantly out to get you and your cuteness! Humid weather and rain can make your hair frizzy, or sweating on a golf course can make your makeup run or your face look oily. 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 completely full, you’ll be ready for ANYTHING!
- Additional shoes: There is literally NOTHING worse than breaking a heel. Add some extra shoes! Even if you only need to change in the middle of the night due to blisters, you’ll 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, just go to the bathroom… Tide pen to the rescue!
- Black tank top/White tank top: You may think that having your uniform is enough, but you NEVER know what can happen! Having a nice and simple tank top can save the day!
- Nude bra adjustable to any garment: Invest in a work bra that can be worn multiple ways: racerback, strapless, halter. If you end up with a sudden change of uniform, you’ll be prepared! No one looks good showing bra straps!
- Feminine products: Even if you don’t expect to need them, ALWAYS have them. This one, again, can really save another model in need 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 walking out with a dead phone and you might forget to check the battery level before leaving home.
