Falling Models, Tumbling Talent, and Slippery Shoe Solutions

Bless their Hearts,

…these runway models are not alone in experiencing slides, slips, and falls.  Underestimating the power of a polished floor, we have all found ourselves flat on the floor, humiliated, and looking for the closest piece of furniture to crawl underneath.

I use one or both of these methods to prep slick, new shoes that will be worn by on-camera talent.  These very simple stylist tricks can prevent both talent tumble as well as personal embarrassment:

• Sandpaper: Lightly scuff the bottoms of new shoes with sandpaper. Be careful not to scuff the sides of the shoes or any area that will be visible to camera. I keep both 80 grit and 120 grit sandpaper in my kit.
• Hairspray: Spritz the bottoms of the shoes with strong hold hairspray and let the spray dry for about a minute until it’s sticky to the touch.  Spray as needed.  I keep Nexxtacy by Nexxus in my kit because it is super sticky and alcohol free.

★ Make sure the hairspray will not damage the flooring surface. If you are uncertain, ask the art department, location manager, or props.

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SIMPLY BRILLIANT GRIP HUMOR

So there I was, lurking in the sound stage shadows like a light-sensitive mole. This particular stage typically provided padded folding chairs for the wardrobe department and H&M (Hair & Make-up) to use during filming.  Unfortunately, all of the chairs were being used in video village to accommodate the large number of clients and gawkers on set.

In lieu of standing for hours on concrete floors, an apple box would have to suffice.

I sat perfectly quiet perched on my wooden applebox, diligently watching the monitors for any wardrobe malfunctions, wedgies, or sweat through. Then out of the darkness a hand holding a foam cushion appeared from behind me.  Forever burned into my comedic memory banks, two simple words were whispered into my ear,

“STOOL SOFTENER ?”

BRILLIANT!

Entertaining Job Hazards

by David Foster for

Alex Hamlin, camera operator on a Saucony job with us, ends up finding out just how fast a parachute travels. Shot with a Canon 5D Mark II

Teen Boys Wardrobe Set

Teen boy, season-less wardrobe set for client. teen boys by cwstylist featuring diesel shoes

Recent Work for Publix

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Project: Publix Sunday DInners Agency: Matlock Brief: Celebrity Chefs share signature recipes for special occasions. Wardrobe, props, and menu support the occasion as well as reflect the chefs’ personal style, design aesthetics, and flavor. Photographer: Scott Lowden Wardrobe + Props: ME! Courtney Watkins … Continue reading →

Today Show and Star Jones on Obesity Campaign

Last year I worked on an Anti Childhood Obesity Campaign directed by David Stuart.  The campaign has received a lot of press for being in your face, unapologetic, and heart wrenching. The Toady Show featured the campaign (view commercials here) and conducted … Continue reading →

NPR on Anti-Obesity Ads

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NPR All Things Considered Controversy Swirls Around Harsh Anti-Obesity Ads January 9, 2012 Stark billboards and television commercials that feature overweight kids are part of a controversial anti-obesity campaign in Atlanta. The goal of the “Stop Sugarcoating It, Georgia” ads … Continue reading →