Models are used to boredom—especially during fashion month. After all, hundreds of shows across four cities mean endless hours of castings, travel, hair and makeup, and finally the runway itself. So it makes sense that these professionals are experts at passing the time.

What better way to fill the hours than by getting lost in a good book? Now that the spring 2027 season has wrapped up, five models share what they read backstage—from a Sally Rooney tearjerker to a play nearly 90 years old, and stories that remind these frequent travelers of homes on other continents.

Stella Hanan
Isabel Marant
Photo: Daniele Oberrauch / Gorunway.com

Beautiful World, Where Are You by Sally Rooney

“I fell in love with Sally Rooney after reading her hit novels Normal People and Conversations With Friends. I started this book over the summer and finished it during Fashion Week this fall. I love how Rooney captures different sides of human nature—how people communicate, how they act together, how they act alone, and the emotions that come with different stages of life. It also touches on a lot of conversations about politics, religion, art, and inequality.

The book is rooted in friendship and love, following four people. But most of the novel centers on a long-distance friendship between two women who share their lives through emails and letters. The story eventually brings the characters together as you follow how their friendships and love lives evolve, and it highlights how differences and similarities both matter in relationships. I think it’s very relatable!”

Iasmin Reis
Chloé
Photo: Courtesy of Chloé

Brain Damage by Freida McFadden

“A friend recommended this book to me, but I chose it because the cover caught my eye. After reading the prologue, I became even more interested because I realized the story explores both the ‘before’ and the ‘after.’ The author reveals everything alongside the character, so you discover what happened as the story unfolds.”

Sunday Rose
Dries Van Noten
Photo: Umberto Fratini / Gorunway.com

Golden Boy by Clifford Odets

“I saw a revival of this play starring Josh O’Connor at the Almeida in London a couple of weeks ago and absolutely loved it. The cast and story were so fascinating that I decided to read the original from 1937. I think this play intrigued me because it focuses on the choice between wealth, fame, and true passion—and what a person might sacrifice to get there. Oddly enough, I also loved that the ending was sad, because it felt more realistic and less idealized.”

Canlan Wang
Ferragamo
Photo: Alessandro Lucioni / Gorunway.com

Medical Examiner Dr. Qin by Qin Ming

“Suspense novels grab my attention very quickly, and I like how they introduce me to fields I wouldn’t normally encounter. They’re concise, immersive, and give me that little rush of adrenaline I enjoy.”

Thalita Ferreira
Alaïa
Photo: Courtesy of Alaïa

The Head of the Saint by Socorro Acioli

“I chose The Head of the Saint by Socorro Acioli because I love stories that explore Brazilian culture, spirituality, and traditions. I loved how the book blends faith, mystery, and magical realism in such a beautiful and unique way. It made me feel connected to my roots.”

Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs Booking Season What 5 Models Read Backstage at the Spring 2027 Shows

1 What is Booking Season in the modeling world
Its the period when models agencies and casting directors line up runway work for the upcoming fashion weeks For Spring 2027 shows that means the SpringSummer 2027 season

2 What does reading backstage mean
It refers to what models do while waiting before a show reading books scripts notes or call sheets It became a trend because fans and photographers noticed models reading backstage at the Spring 2027 shows

3 Which 5 models are being talked about
The five most photographed reading backstage were a mix of established names and breakout newcomers They were seen with books scripts and personal notebooks between hair makeup and fittings

4 What were they actually reading
A range of things novels poetry selfhelp books scripts for acting roles and even study materials for school Some read physical books others used ereaders or phones

5 Why did this become a trend
Because it felt real and relatable Instead of phones and chaos these models were quietly focused Photos went viral and backstage reading became a talking point of the season

6 Is reading backstage allowed
Yes as long as it doesnt interfere with fittings hair makeup or the run of show Most backstage teams dont mind quiet activity during downtime

7 Why would a model read backstage instead of scrolling their phone
Reading helps pass long waiting hours reduces anxiety keeps the mind sharp and avoids the stress of social media It also creates a calm professional image

8 Does reading backstage help a models career
Indirectly yes It can boost visibility build a thoughtful public image and sometimes lead to brand or media interest but its not a substitute for strong runway and editorial work

9 What are the benefits for beginners
Its a lowcost way to stay calm productive and focused during a hectic season It also helps you stand out in a positive way without extra effort

10 Can reading backstage hurt you
Only if you ignore instructions miss your cue or seem