Description
Book SynopsisA study of the world of modeling. Exploring an arena of cultural production, it shows how the right 'look' is discovered, developed, and packaged to become a prized commodity. It examines how models sell themselves, how agents promote them, and how clients decide to hire them.
Trade Review"Mears gives voice to a group of women who are paid to be seen and not heard." Slate "Mears has produced a fascinating study." Boston Globe/The Find "Mears acknowledges that walking the runway can be a thrill unlike any other [but also] notes some of the industry's exploitative aspects." Stylelist "A nuanced, and deliciously complicated depiction of an industry." Tottenville Review "This book is sociology at its finest. Mears's rarified status as a model-researcher provides rich insight into the specific nuances of fashion." American Journal Of Sociology/AJS "Mears's book represents an original, highly readable contribution to the field." Choice
Table of ContentsList of Illustrations Acknowledgments 1. Entry 2. Economics of the Catwalk 3. Becoming a Look 4. The Tastemakers 5. Size Zero High-End Ethnic 6. Runway to Gender 7. Exit Appendix: The Precarious Labor of Ethnography Notes Bibliography Index