How to master the off-duty model look

With Fashion Month in full swing, the street style of many off-duty models is continually coveted.

We hear from model agencies and Fashion Week designers the industry secrets to mastering the off-duty look.

Be comfortable in your own skin

British fashion designer and podcast host, Amanda Wakeley OBE, says the secret to pulling off basic looks is confidence.

“Being totally at ease in your skin means you’ll feel great in whatever you have decided to wear,” says the Fashion Week designer. “If we feel great, we look great, job done.”

Clean lines and vintage finds

Looking cool in your off-duty ensemble lies in the simplicity. “It’s about striking that perfect balance between comfort and style, where every piece feels intuitively chosen yet impeccably put together without being too perfect,” says Wakeley.

Clean lines doesn’t mean you have to go and buy packet-new white T-shirts. “Most of our models avoid fast fashion and they love vintage,” say Bruce and Ribeiro. “Second-hand shopping in thrift stores or customising your own looks is key to looking individual as opposed to replicating a specific outfit.”

Incorporate your own style – not trends

The reason models manage to look so cool is that they have access to trends before the rest of us. “Models have access to shooting the latest clothing looks even before the public sees them,” say Bruce and Ribeiro, “so they know ahead of what will be cool or not. They almost set new trends before they hit the high streets.”

“Generally, models will wear at least one very on-trend piece that will transform their look into “fashion insider” – the key is in the subtle details,” says Wakeley.

“A pop of colour through an accessory or layering textures like a super-oversized scarf, or tie a chunky knit around your neck – the idea is to keep the foundation simple and effortless, allowing room to play with trends or personal touches.”

Your off-duty essentials

The foundation of an off-duty wardrobe which models such as Gigi and Bella Hadid master time after time is rooted in timeless and versatile pieces.

Bruce and Ribeiro argue the key is the fit – more than the piece. “Over time, models will work alongside top stylists and designers and this is when they start to see how clothing sits on the body and knows what works well for them.

“Finding the perfect pair of straight-leg fitting jeans, accompanied with a vest and a cool pair of loafers or brogues are always a winner.”

Alternatively, vintage baggy jeans worn low slung, a vest and a vintage blazer or distressed leather jacket can be effortlessly cool with little thought required.