Omaha Fashion Week’s passion series The Front Row offers an up-close look at the creators and cultivators that are reshaping Omaha’s fashion and arts community. Develop Model Ellie Krupicka kickstarted her modeling career at the age of 15 and has worked as both a model and mentor in the industry. With over seven years of experience with Omaha Fashion Week, Ellie says that fashion week is her favorite time of the year.
How did you get your start with Develop Models?
I was actually introduced to the industry by a longtime friend of mine who was active with Develop and Omaha Fashion Week prior to me coming on the scene! I always showed interest in modeling but never really looked into it myself until my friend invited me to a casting with Develop at the Westroads Mall. That is when I met Alyssa formally and began to grow a relationship with her and the agency.
Ellie wearing designer, Dan Richters, waits backstage to walk during Omaha Fashion Week. Photo by Kathy Rae Photography.
What does a day in the life of a model look like?
Omaha is great for development, exclusive fashion lines, and commercial work, but by no means is it a full-time market. That being said, a typical day in the life of a model is maintaining a healthy lifestyle, consistently building a portfolio with new images, as well as networking and making a great impression with clients and the fashion community to create a reputable name for yourself. Although Omaha is not a fashion capital, we keep pretty busy!
Ellie modeling for the Scout Editorial. Photo by Cydnee Mame.
What beauty secrets do you live by?
I have a very simple routine and tend to stick with what I know works for me. A few things I would say I live by are teeth whitening by light (on top of drinking coffee or red wine out of a straw), ALWAYS wash your face before you go to bed, and sleep on a silk pillowcase to keep hair under control.
What has your experience with Omaha Fashion Week been like?
It’s such an adrenaline rush when I hit the stage. I have been able to gain confidence, build long-lasting friendships and relationships within the fashion community, all while being able to represent so many designers. By being at the castings and boot camps in guiding new models through the process, I’ve found a second love that has allowed me to develop new models. This past season, I was excited to walk alongside some of these new models - the energy was amazing backstage and it was one of my favorite seasons to date as I got to walk for Dan Richters and Borris Powell amongst others!
Do you have any pre-show routines or rituals?
Before every show, whether Omaha Fashion Week or something similar, I always listen to very upbeat music leading up to lining up backstage and practice my walk a handful of times! I do this because it keeps my nerves under control but my adrenaline pumping! Secondly, right before I step out onto the runway, I always make a sign of the cross, ask that God be on my side and that I do nothing but my ultimate best. Other than that, it is completely luck if I mess up or not!
Ellie during her career-favorite editorial shoot for Develop Models, titled “Making Waves”. Photo by Heather and Jameson.
What are your best memories from your time as a model?
There are too many to think of! Overall, there are always more laughs and love backstage than anything else. We are all excited to get on the stage and really show off all of the hard work and creativity that the designers envisioned. Backstage as the energy is high, we have a lot of downtime leading up to the show, so we really get to know each other. I’ve met some of my best girlfriends through modeling.
Do you prefer runway, commercial, or editorial modeling?
Runway is my ultimate favorite thing to do! However, when it comes to print work, I love being wild and experimental, so I prefer editorial over commercial.
What was your favorite shoot to be apart of?
My favorite shoot I have participated in so far would be a more recent shoot through the agency we called "Making Waves". The vibe of the shoot was very Ralph Lauren lifestyle. I was able to shoot with one of my very close girlfriends who is also with the agency! Lots of sweaters, bikini, hats, sailing boats, sand…completely my jam!
What would you like to be doing in 5 years?
I would love to see myself doing well in another market, whether domestically or internationally, having the opportunity most girls dream to have. Walk runways for famous designers, build my portfolio with well-known photographers, creating relationships with other great creative people as well as other models in the industry.
If you could give advice to someone pursuing a career in modeling, what would you tell them?
My biggest advice to anyone pursuing a career in modeling is ALWAYS give 110% to what you want and stay true to yourself! No amount of rejection should keep you from following your dream. Just stay positive and continue to work hard and it will not go unnoticed.
Do you want to rock the Omaha Fashion Week Runway as a model? We want to meet you! Find out more about our upcoming model call event happening this Saturday, January 11th, by clicking the link below.
Find out more about Ellie Krupicka and see some of her best work!
Keep up with the Omaha creatives making waves in the community! Follow Omaha Fashion Week on Instagram for updates on The Front Row.
