Wondering what type of modeling is right for you? The good news is models actually come in all sizes and ages. Here is a list of modeling types and their requirements to help you decide before you start modeling.
Fashion Models
Fashion or “editorial” models advertise designer clothes in high-fashion magazines and high-end fashion shows. These types of modeling jobs are the highest paid in the industry.
You have to be between 5’9” to 6’ and are very slim to be a fashion model. Your measurements have to be 33″ bust, 23″ waist, 33” hips or smaller. High fashion models have high cheekbones and long necks. Male fashion models have to be between 6’ to 6’2” and wear a 38 or 40 jacket.
Runway Models
Runway or catwalk models wear a designer’s collection at fashion shows. You must meet exact size measurements because the designer clothes you will be modeling are already made and you have to fit into them perfectly.
You must be 5’9” to 6’ and do not measure more than 33″ bust, 24″ waist, 33” hips to be a runway model. Male fashion models are between 6’ to 6’2” and wear a 38 or 40 jacket.
Plus Size Models
To market to a bigger audience, the ratio of plus size modeling jobs are increasing. Even top modeling agencies have plus size divisions, and many plus size supermodels in the industry like Ashley Graham and Tess Holiday have become very successful.
If you are at least a size 12 and 5’7” you can be a plus size model. Male plus size models are usually at least 5’9” and have 38”-40” waist, but some designers prefer 42”-44” waist to showcase their clothes.
Petite Models
Petite models may not be in high fashion or runway, but they are hired for a variety of modeling jobs. You can book print and catalogs shoots for clothes and swimwuit. You can also get parts modeling jobs for accessories and shoes because this type of modeling prefer smaller hands and feet. Female petite models need to be 5’4” to 5’7” and weigh about 105 to 155 lbs.
Mature Models
The market for mature models has also been increasing. Products like fine jewelry and watches are targeting older buyers through magazine ads and commercials. You have to be at least 30 years old, but some mature models are in their 80’s even.
Child Models
Child modeling has always been a very big industry. Think of all the products targeted for children out there – toys, cereals, and designer clothes. All the modeling agencies have children’s divisions for clothing lines and products, and it can be the first step into a media or acting career later on. Anderson Cooper and Natalie Portman were both child models.
Child models are usually 12 years old or under. They must be able to work with strangers and on the set, and agencies prefer children who follow directions well and have friendly personalities.
Fitness Models
The growing health, food, and fitness industries means there are more and more fitness modeling jobs. Fitness models promote exercise equipment, athletic wear, and healthy snacks and are in magazines and commercials. Female and male fitness models need to be fit and athletic and have a very toned body. Athletes and physical trainers fit this type of modeling.
Glamour Models
This type of modeling are for female models. You have to be curvier, and know sexier poses because you will be modeling some lingerie or burlesque fashions. Pin up and Playboy models are considered glamour models.
Promotional Models
Promotional models promote products physically on site. This type of modeling can be booked for conventions or events, and need to have outgoing personalities.
Parts Models
Parts models specialize in a particular body part like your face, hands, feet, or legs. They find jobs with jewelry or shoe companies and to promote beauty products. Whatever body part you model needs to be well-proportioned and flawless.
Keep in mind you can fit into many types of modeling. So don’t limit yourself to just one. Pursue as many auditions as you fit into to increase your chances in getting a modeling job.
