#IndustryInsights: January Russell Winters
We recently had the chats with January about her incredible modelling career and what it is that she loves so much about working in her industry.
How did you first get into the industry?
I first got into modelling when I was picked to be in the Bray Institute of Further Education's graduate fashion show. It was a really big show in the RDS. As a first show it was quite intimidating but everyone was so friendly and helpful that it made it a lot easier. It was very nerve racking but I knew I loved it. After that a few things happened for me, a couple of shoots and shows and an agency up north but it wasn't until I signed with Morgan The Agency that things began to kick off for me.
Can you describe a typical work day?
A typical work day usually begins with really early alarm bells! I get a taxi or a bus (depending on how lazy I'm feeling) to where ever I need to be and try hustle a coffee on the way there. Then its straight into hair and make-up to get done up and have the chats. If its a show, I'll have last minute fittings before our first looks but if its a shoot we'll get stuck in straight away. After the first job of the day I might have another job, a casting or a fitting to get to but that all depends on how busy the season is.
What motivates you?
I think what motivates me is the need to be successful and happy. Being happy and enjoying what I do is really important to me, I've had jobs that I've hated and I've been miserable. Not being miserable is key.
How do you integrate social media into your career as a model?
I use social media to connect with people in the industry and I'm a little bit nosey. I like seeing what everyone else is up to, who's shooting which models are where and who's doing what. I like sharing what I've been up to aswell, I'm proud of my work and I'm happy to show people.
What has been your biggest career achievement to date?
My biggest career achievement to date would probably be all the opportunities I've been given to travel. I consider myself incredibly lucky to have worked in so many different countries, and to have been able to explore cities, and meet other models and see how different the fashion industry is in each country.
Have you any advice for people thinking of entering the industry?
My best advice to people thinking of entering the industry is to have a tough skin. Modelling can be quite tough, there's a lot of rejection and sometimes people can say unkind things. You just have to remember to laugh it off and carry on!
Is there anyone that influenced you to take this career path?
I don't think anyone in particular influenced me to take this career path. When I was younger I always wanted to be a model, I think a lot of girls do. It seemed glamorous and fun and It definitely is but it's not quite how I imagined it!
Where do you hope to see yourself in 5 years?
In 5 years time I hope to be financially independent, being happy doing what I love with a full driving license, (I'm working on it)!
What is your pet peeve about working in the industry?
My pet peeve about working in the industry is probably having my hair brushed. I hate it, the sound of it, the pain of it! I'm a bit of a brat really!
What do you do to relax and unwind after a long days work?
After a long days work I relax by going to the gym and having a soak in the steam room. Although, if it's a really long day the gym gets scrapped and I relax by hanging out with my friends!
January recently launched her new blog, Gold & Bold so keep an eye on there for all of her latest escapades. We absolutely love the aesthetic of the blog and have no doubt it will be a huge success.
We'll be chatting with more of your faves for #IndustryInsights interviews going forward so keep an eye on our page for more chats with some of the coolest kids around town.
YM