There is no better time than NOW to create new goals, reach for the stars, and take your plus modeling career to the next level.

In order to be successful in reaching all of your modeling goals, you must have the correct tools. I am always surprised at how under prepared models, no matter how seasoned, are when they arrive at a photo shoot. As a stylist, I have a “kit” full of tools that I use to do my job efficiently. I bring my kit to every shoot that I am on, so that no matter what is thrown at me, I am prepared.

As a model, you should approach your jobs with the same attitude and have some of the same items that a stylists, make-up artists, and hair stylists would have. There is not always going to be a team on set with you, so you should be as prepared as you can. From personal experience, photo shoots always run much smoother if the model is equipped when she arrives on set. A great option for a model bag is a small suitcase that rolls. Most models tell me that they simply leave their model bag in the trunk of their car, so that don’t have to worry about forgetting something or scrambling at the last minute.

To be a successful model, it is essential to have a complete model bag. Models often ask me for my suggestions about which items they should have included in their bags, and what investments they should be making in creating the best collection of “tools”, so the following are some of my favorite basic items that I recommend.

Undergarments:
There should be a variety of undergarments in your model bag, considering you will not always know ahead of time what type of clothing you will be wearing. Undergarments are essential to create the correct “canvas” for a garment, so make sure the items you choose fit you properly. You should always choose a nude/skin color as well as black. The Cacique collection from Lane Bryant has perfect options, as well as most department stores.

Strapless/Convertible nude bra:
(Try the BRA 6 Convertible Plunge Bra from Cacique. It is a great all-in-one that includes a strapless option, as well as 5 other configurations. www.lanebryant.com)

Full-Coverage nude bra:
(Try the “Figure Perfect” Smooth Full-Coverage Convertible Bra from Cacique. This bra is smooth and provides full coverage, but it also has the added bonus of convertible straps so you get more for your money. www.lanebryant.com)

Plunge nude bra:
(Try the Smooth Plunge Bra from Cacique. This has a low, cleavage-enhancing frame and offers thin, convertible straps, www.lanebryant.com)

Basic seamless panties: nude, black
(Old Navy’s Ribbon Trim Hipster underwear [pictured] and Cacique’s Seamless Hipster are both my top picks. Both options are great basics that will offer smooth support and sit just below the waist. www.oldnavy.com, www.lanebryant.com)