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We’re used to seeing runway and magazine models dressed to the nines and caked in funky makeup. So when paparazzi photos reveal them wearing nothing but jeans and a tank top, it’s a different vibe. But even in an oversized sweater and messy bun, they still look like goddesses. 

We can’t afford couture, but we can channel that runway beauty with that refreshing, model-off-duty aesthetic. This casual and effortlessly attractive look gives you that “Oh, this old thing?” aura. It’s chill, but chic, and a breeze to recreate. 

Clothes: Classics and Basics

Models are always wearing haute couture and flamboyant clothes. So when they’re not on the clock, they usually want to be more laid-back and comfy. But that doesn’t mean they look like slobs! The model-off-duty look is all about the basics and the classic, so we’re talking little black dresses, white T-shirts, and jeans.

If you crave simple silhouettes, H&M and Uniqlo are two of our favorite brands. You can find affordable but well-made long-sleeved shirts, T-shirts, button-downs, slacks, tank tops, and so much more. 

When in doubt, stick with neutrals like black, white, beige, brown, and grey. But don’t be afraid to go with bold, vibrant colors when the mood strikes. And if you have a go-to periwinkle or emerald green you feel confident in, grab basics in those hues!

You can also blend comfy with cool and lean into elevated and playful athleisure looks. Girlfriend Collective and POPFLEX make chic athletic clothes, from flirty tennis skirts to sporty tube tops, that provide unmatched comfort and a head-turning style.  

A pair of jeans that make you feel as hot as Naomi Campbell is a must for this fit. If you already have a pair, cherish them. If not, check out the denim options from Good American — Banana Republic isn’t too shabby, either. 

You don’t have to be boring and minimalistic to achieve this off-duty vibe. But the basics are at the core of this aesthetic. Start with those, and sprinkle in more runway-worthy pieces, like a cropped puffer jacket, plaid pants, or oversized sweater. 

Shoes: Literally Anything

When it comes to your feet, follow your heart. Unlike me, models are masters of teetering through life on stilettos. If your safety is compromised in a 2-inch heel, don’t worry. Models wear sneakers, too! 

Strut down the streets in a pair of Paris Pumps from Reformation, or squeak through the grocery store in New Balance 530 dad shoes. Ballet flats, TEVA sandals, Birkenstock sandals, the legendary Doc Marten Combat Boots, UGG classics, and thigh-high boots are all in play. Truly, there are no wrong answers here, and that’s one of our fave things about this aesthetic. 

Accessories: Petite ‘90s Vibes

First thing’s first, grab those sunnies. All the top models rock sunglasses when out and about, probably due to the camera flashes in their faces all the time. You can pretend to dodge the paparazzi with a chic pair of Ray-Bans. I’m partial to a petite sunglass silhouette, a la Winona Ryder in the late ‘90s. But in 2025, almost all sunglass silhouettes are fair game, including the Oakley vibes. 

Like your clothes, you should keep your accessories fairly understated. Elegant tennis bracelets, classy gold hoop earrings, and fuzzy cashmere scarves are all stylish options. Belts can work, but we recommend wearing them only when you’re 100% sure they work with the outfit. A belt tends to go against the relaxed vibe of a model-off-duty. But we love a hat! From baseball caps to fuzzy bucket hats, models need a decent cap to hide their greasy hair on no-wash days in between runway shows.

You’ll also need a purse to carry your modeling essentials, like Calvin Klein’s business card and your plumping gloss. Business cards and lip gloss don’t take up much room, so you can head out with a tiny purse or crossbody bag. The Paris Hilton-esque baguette bags from the early aughts are making a comeback, in case you want to hop on that trend.

Ultimately, you can skip all the accessories and keep it bare and beautiful. After all, you are off-duty!

Hair: Au Naturel

Models don’t usually do much with their hair, possibly to give it a break from the constant styling. Many model-off-duty ‘dos are either protective — good for your hair — or unstyled looks, which are unforced and carefree. 

Some lovely options for the former include French braids, Dutch braids, space buns, and French buns. The key to executing protective hairstyles is to avoid any pulling or tightness. For unstyled looks, we love a messy bun, loose braid, high ponytail, or just natural. 

Models’ hair goes through a lot, so requires substantial care to prevent severe damage. We recommend treating your hair like a precious baby. 

Use products that nourish and moisturize, such as Moroccanoil — the Holy Grail of haircare. If you have long hair with dry ends, L’Oreal No Haircut Leave-In Cream is another brilliant product. But there is no one-size-fits-all for model off-duty hair. You need to use products that cater to your hair. 

If you find it hard to ID the right stuff, give Prose a try. The company sends customized haircare products based on your hair type and your answers to a quick quiz. 

Good news. You don’t need harsh, damaging products to achieve this. Simply care for your hair and let it be itself!

Makeup: The No Makeup Look

Unsurprisingly, the model-off-duty makeup style is no-makeup. Ditch the heavy cat-eye and intense smokey shadow and keep things light and easy. As with your hair, it’s not just about styling, it’s also about nourishing. So make sure to use all the retinal, hyaluronic acid, and Vitamin C serums in your medicine cabinet.

Create I-woke-up-like-this makeup looks with easygoing brands like Glossier, Milk Makeup, and rhode beauty. 

Products like the Glossier Boy Brow and Cloud Paint Blush define your look without being OTT. Milk Makeup’s Hydro Grip + Glow Primer is heaven-sent, giving you a dewy look while being kind to your skin. And the Matte Bronzer gives you a sun-kissed appearance that looks natural. Hailey Bieber brings her model off-duty vibes to her beauty brand, with stellar products like the Pocket Blush and Peptide Lip Tints. 

Use these products sparingly. Your goal should be to make your complexion look flawless and dewy, while defining your brows, eyes, and lips. Skip the heavy contours, capricious lip colors, and complicated eyeshadow. If you do it right, delusional 20-something men will think you’re not wearing any makeup.