Have you observed how models have stopped smiling on the haute couture runway? Do they intimidate you? Do you feel they look scary and ferocious? If you agree with the above-listed questions, then so do we. We have observed that over time, models’ expressions, and body language have changed significantly. Even though some of the models used to keep a straight face but the showstoppers always smiled at the audience while walking with the designer. However, the situation is different now. So we decided to research why models’ expressions changed over time. There are several reasons for that.

Getty Images/ DigitalVision/ Thomas Barwick

Firstly, the brand wants you to focus on the outfit rather than the model. If the model is a well-known celebrity or influencer and she has a pleasing look on herself, the audience is bound to focus more on her face than the outfit. Brands wanted to change it. This is one of the main reasons for the unspoken ban on smiling. Brands hire models that are loved by the audience to gain traction but then they are expected to keep a straight face so they can focus on the creation of the designer. Secondly, a straight face boosts a model’s confidence level which eventually leads to them walking on the runway as if their sole job is not their recognition but the brand’s recognition. It makes the models feel that they can easily carry the exaggerated outfit without tripping or slipping on the runway. Thirdly, according to brands, if models smile on the runway, it will make the outfit look ridiculous. The models have minimal or heavy makeup with outfits with which smiles can be an added accessory. Sometimes, too many accessories might not work in your favor.

After reading this article, it might make sense to you why models have a cold attitude on the runway. At the end of the day, you will attend an haute couture show for the designs and not the models. Models are mere people that are modeling to make an outfit look grander than it already is.