LINCOLN CENTER — Working a career decked out in the latest high-fashion trends puts models in their off-runway lives as the ones to watch when it comes to what styles the future holds.
Masculine boots, textured black fabrics and shorts were some of the reoccurring outfits spotted on models as they arrived at Lincoln Center for Mercedes Benz Fashion Week. While those attending the shows glam it up at the front-end of the tents, models went for an androgynous and comfortable trend as they walked in the back entrance ready for another day of work.
"Being around the clothes is inspiring for what is to come," said Rachel Troy, a 21-year-old model who was leaving Lincoln Center after the Walter Baker runway show. "It gives you the inside scoop."
The leggy Troy went with a loose-fitting striped shirt she picked up from a secondhand store in Maine paired with a tight grey H&M skirt. On her feet were black booties worth $250 and lathered in small studs that came as a gift from Schutz after Troy did a job for the shoe brand.
Zhenni Sparks, a model from Kazakhstan leaving the Project Runway show on Friday, also wore something that came as a gift after a job — a slouchy pair of Dolce and Gabbana jeans with huge holes ripped at the knees.
"They are the perfect cut for me — long," said Sparks, of the loose denims with giant holes in the knees. She also wore black booties with a tall thick heel and aviator glasses.
For Alyssa Young, 20, being a model had helped develop her own sense of style and creativity.
"I'm pretty proud of it," she said, showing off a heavily studded denim jacket that she embellished herself. Slung over her shoulder were more studs on a leather backpack.
"You are always around it, so you are more aware," said Young, of what's in fashion at any given moment. "You become aware of what is good for your body type."
Christin Godale, 19, has also upped her fashion sense since moving to New York for modeling.
Her new street style if far different than that in her native state of Ohio. "You wear capris and a Hollister shirt," back home, she said. "You can't do that here."
She exited the tents at Lincoln Center wearing a sheer top with a lacy burgundy crop top that showed off a perfectly flat stomach.
Like most models involved in Fashion Week, Godale pops in and out of shows and casting calls for collections that will be viewed in the coming days. As with any industry, what a model wears to the casting interviews is important.
"It is almost like an outfit for an interview," said Godale.
