True Story: I Work in Fashion

Thursday, 14 April 2011 14:08

At just 25, local beauty Shara McGlinn has modeled for Sears, JCPenney, Walmart, Kmart, Heatherette, JLo, Alice & Olivia, TIGI, Crate & Barrel, Liz Claiborne, Icing, Seventeen, V magazine, Dillard’s, Macy's, Sony and Virgin Mobile—to name a few. We caught up with this Chicago-based former University of Florida student to get the inside scoop on the modeling industry.

As told to Greg Allard by Shara McGlinn

How did you start modeling?

I started five years ago in Miami after sending my pictures into Ford Miami. I signed a contract with them within minutes of seeing them and moved down from Gainesville the next weekend.

How did your life change?

I had to learn very quickly a whole different lifestyle and how to deal with it. I was lonely in the beginning since I didn't know anyone. I had to figure out on my own how to move in front of a camera, get used to strange and early call times, and get used to people constantly touching me.

What do you enjoy about modeling?

I enjoy the adventure of it. Every job is different and I always look forward to finding out where I'm going to be next. Sometimes I'll find out the same morning what I'll be doing that day!

I don’t know if I could do that. How would you describe yourself as a person?

Confident (thank God—you're not going anywhere in modeling if you aren't); a people-person, social, definitely can be a brat at times, like to laugh.

What did you major in and has that helped your career?

I majored in English. I loved to read and write growing up. English can be used in any and every career. In modeling, it's useful when communicating with my agents and clients, since most of it is done through email. People think more highly of someone who can communicate well through writing.

What were some of your best and worst gigs?

I can't really think of any I didn't like... I mean, sometimes there were certain things out of my control that weren't the most pleasant—weather, or unfriendly models or clients—but the outcome always made up for it and more. I haven't regretted any of my modeling jobs. Oh, and the money is always nice too [laughs].

What is your diet and workout routine like?

Well, I'm getting really excited now that the harsh winter of Chicago is almost over because my exercise routine really consists of walking everywhere in my wonderful city! Diet-wise, I've been a vegetarian my whole life so that helps.

Is it ever hard?

Of course. All careers have their ups and downs. I miss my parents a lot. I'm an only child so I'm very close to them both. I deal with that by surrounding myself with friends at all times or staying busy with work.

What is your schedule like?

It's all over the place. I've been even more busy since recently switching agencies and I look forward to not having time to think! Of course, the free days are always nice too.

How long do you see yourself in this line of work?

Well, luckily I have my mother's genes. She looks a lot younger than she is. (Her name means "eternal youth" in Sanskrit.) So, hopefully that says something for me!

What else would you like to do?

In the near future, I would like to start helping my parents with their business. They sell silver jewelry wholesale to stores, boutiques and museums. I've already designed for them in the past and I'll probably pick up from there. As a plus, they travel a lot overseas for their work and I love traveling!

Do you have a favorite hobby?

I like reading and walking around the city. I also like going to dinners and parties with my friends.

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

I see myself modeling on the side, designing jewelry (or something creative), being a good wife and raising two beautiful children alongside a handsome husband.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Pursue your dreams but don't lose sight of reality.

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