The exciting and ever changing world of modelling is so diverse right now with more models & types of modelling than ever before! The most important thing is understanding what type of model you are and finding your feet in the industry. This will enable you to sign with the agency that you are most suited to you and an agency that will steer your career in the right direction. It's important to remember that you can fit into several categories, just because you're a petite model for example doesn't mean you can't be a commercial or fitness model! So, we thought we would provide you with some of the different types of modelling in today's industry to help you figure out your modelling career path.
Fashion/Editorial
Fashion models are usually the faces you might see in fashion magazines, on shop windows and on e-comm sites such as Boohoo, Topshop, ASOS etc... Female models are usually around 5'7"-5'10" in height and usually are the 'girl or boy next door' type if shooting for fashion. Whilst male models are usually around 5'10" - 6'3" in height. However this can differ between garment sizing and requirements of the brand the model is shooting for. Editorial models usually work for top fashion designers such as Gucci, Prada, Vivienne Westwood etc. and as a whole, editorial modelling tends to be the most selective. Most editorial models are incredibly tall, slim & sometimes have a very unique look.
Runway model
These models are catwalk models that showcase a designer’s clothing line. Due to the precise sizes of the designer’s clothing, runway models need to be specific measurements. If you are 5’9 or over then this type of modelling could be for you.
Commercial model
Commercial models are not restricted by age, but agencies do tend to have specific guidelines they work to. Commercial models generally represent your 'everyday' kind of look who will go on to advertise a wide range of products in catalogs, campaigns & commercials.
Fitness model
These models tend to be fit, toned, and athletically built. This of course makes sense as these models mainly work with fitness brands selling clothes or products.
Fit model
A fit model works behind the scenes with brands to help get the sizing right for their clothing lines before they go to market. They usually are the average sized person at that time in their country and they will model the garments whilst the buying team and garment technician will see how the clothes fit and if anything needs changing before going to market. This usually involves a lot of fit sessions and pitch meetings.
Promotional model
This type of model books jobs that help sell or promote a certain commodity. Promotional models are often found at live events such as fashion or bridal shows modelling on the catwalk or for the stands. As a whole, these models must be personable & outgoing to attract buyers.
Petite model
Petite models are generally around 5'2" - 5'5". With more and more brands offering a petite range, this type of modelling is becoming more popular and in demand. Since petite models usually have smaller shoe sizes & glove sizes, they are also popular as foot & hand models.
Plus size & curve
A plus-size or curve model is usually a size 12+. Like petite models, plus size & curve models are in high demand with more and more fashion brands offering these ranges, as well as events such as fashion and bridal shows.
