Which Female Model Type Are You?

When people think of modeling, they usually think of runway shows or models represented in glossy fashion magazines. The fashion industry employs the highest number of models. Modeling as an occupation began in the year 1853. The credit goes to French designer, Charles Frederick Worth, known as the father of Haute couture, who asked his wife, Marie Augustine Vernet to model for the clothes he designed. Before that, clothes were showcased on mannequins.

Modeling has become a part of global popular culture, and the models who walk the runway have gained prominence. There is talk of diverse representation of models in the fashion industry, in terms of gender, ethnicity, and age of models. 

 Female models to the world of advertisements are like spices to the world of food. These not only enhance the flavor of food but also makes it more presentable and consumable. Female models add glamour to the advertisement and are usually more attention-grabbing among audiences.

Many celebrities, including well-known singers, actors, sports personality and reality TV stars often take up the task of modeling besides the regular work because of the famous face can better connect with the viewer. The body type determines which kind of the female model one is.

As a model, you can be ingenious and explore the different areas of the fashion industry. Some models experiment with one specialized category, while others try out multiple types of modeling to find the genre that best suits them. If you are looking to pursue a career in modeling, you need to be sure about the area, which is the best fit for you.

Fashion (Editorial) Model

Fashion models are also called editorial models. Editorial or ‘print’ modeling refers to storytelling through pictures. It includes showcasing designers, current fashion or beauty trends, the latest in makeup, hair, skin-care, etc. that are illustrated through a pictorial story. These editorials are highly coveted as they set the current trends in the industry. Fashion models usually grace the covers of international fashion magazines like Elle, Glamour, and Vogue, and are employed by major fashion houses

Glamour Model

Glamour models are generally more curvy and bosomy. These kinds of models can double up as the swimsuit or lingerie models too. These models are more sexually appealing or enduring so that they can instantly attract the audiences. Female models that usually appears on the leading magazines cover page belong to this category of models.

Runway or Catwalk Model

These models are usually tall say around 5.9 inches or more. Besides this, precise measurements of 34 inches around the bust, 23 inches around the waist and 34 inches around the hips are necessary. Taller than the prescribed height is better for such models because that will enable fitting the clothes that the designer are supposed to showcase at the event to their clients.

The fact worth noticing is that for such models, the designer labels don’t prepare the dress according to the model’s size rather models have to be well structured to fit into the clothes designed by labels.

Commercial Model

Commercial models can don different hats according to the demands of the clients. They can be of any age, size, shape, and height as their work vary from advertising for a particular product to marketing for a particular service, or promotional events for housewares, food, travel, cosmetics, etc.  Commercial models work in the print, digital, retail and television industry. Their job is to fit into retail clothing or to successfully be able to endorse a product or service. Accordingly, to the industry’s standard sample size, commercial models are hired if they are between 5’6″ to 5’11” in the case of females and males are required to be between 5’9″ to 6’2″. The type of model requirements and preferences change according to the clients.

Plus size Model

These models are gaining popularity in the modeling world because they are more connectable with the masses. The fashion agencies in the commercial industry are accepting such models in an open-hearted manner. Many top fashion agencies have plus size divisions that hire plus-size models. The models are determined by their size rather than the exact measurements such as size 12 and up.

Petite Model

These are very slim body models which are generally 5.7 inches tall or under. If you have unique looks, ooze confidence, sport a signature style and have the right attitude, petite modeling can be a perfect fit for you. A petite model is generally above 5’ 1’’ and not taller than 5’ 7’’. You must know your characteristic strengths and strong features and use them to your advantage. As a petite model, you would find work in the fashion, commercial, glamour, and part sectors of modeling. Modeling assignments are available for select catalogs, ads, and magazines. New retailers are also catering to the petite category with dedicated styles. Lily-Rose Depp, Emily Ratajkowski, Aaron Frew are some of the hugely popular petite models in the fashion industry. This model typically doesn’t do the runway or catwalk modeling and are usually hired for lingerie, swimsuit, and part modeling assignments. Such models typically have smaller shoe size and gloves size and hence are called as foot and hand models.

Swimsuit or Lingerie Model

These models are a very curvy body and more voluptuous than editorial models. These models undertake modeling assignments regarding swimsuits, bikinis, Lingerie, sleepwear, summer wear, and undergarments. These models also do fit modeling and showroom assignments. Swimsuits and lingerie models are often confused with glamour models, but they are not the same. These models can walk fashion runway shows, appear in fashion editorials and even commercial catalogs for various brands, designers and stores, depending on their skill, type, and versatility. These types of models are required to constantly monitor their diet and maintain proper shape and size.

Fitness Model

Fitness models are those who have athletic, toned, and very fit body type. Such models usually start as a trainer or an athlete and finally turns to the modeling world to inspire the masses toward a fitness regime. Modeling assignments for such models include known fitness companies, Gym, supplement manufacturers, and athletic wear brands. Fitness model can also double up as a commercial model.

Fit Model

Fit Models are not the same as fitness model because the fit model works behind the scene in the fashion houses and with garment manufacturer. Fit models help in ensuring that the size and the fit of the clothes manufactured by a brand for a specific client. Apparel manufacturer has to check the precise fitting of the customized dress before delivering it to the client. Such models need to maintain the consistent size and measurements to qualify as the fit model.

Promotional Model

These models promote the product or services at various exhibitions, trade shows, conventions, and live events. These have to be overly extrovert and friendly and need to have an excellent understanding of the product. Their job profile requires live interaction with prospective clients on the display platform. Many potential buyers tend to soothe their queries by asking the model questions regarding the product on the display platform.

Mature Model

The market for mature models is witnessing upward trend as such models are quite professional, intellectual, and more relatable with the common masses. The model above the age of 30 comes under the category and can work up to the age of 80s or 90s if they are maintained enough for the modeling assignments. Such a model can opt for commercial modeling as a career as these are capable of performing every role that a commercial model plays.

Freelance Model

Freelance models are not full-time models. They work on shoots on a project or requirement basis. They are generally not represented by a particular modeling agency or an agent. Therefore, they need to effectively market themselves to attract potential clients. They are responsible for marketing, promotion, branding, and networking. Freelance models need to be extremely independent as they do not depend on any modeling agency. They need to create a very strong online portfolio of various photo shoots and work experiences. Having a portfolio website that reflects personality and showcases versatility works as a huge bonus. Attending promotional events and being active on various social media platforms will strengthen the run in the business. Requirements for freelance models depends on the type of modeling they want to pursue.

For becoming a model, professionally done modeling portfolio is a must-have. In the competitive industry like that of modeling, the success of the model depends on the time and the kind of assignments they take up. Adequately search about well-established model hiring agencies as they can place the model in high-profile places such as magazines and fashion shows. If you are a new model, you should always have a legitimate modeling agency to represent you. Gone are those days, when you could depend on sheer luck to get spotted, the chances of that happening are one-in-a-million now. It takes discipline, effort, and perseverance to become a model. You need to plan, prepare, and follow a strategy to stand out and get noticed. We have spoken to several successful models and agencies and put together a list of tips below that you must follow to break into the modeling industry and kick start your modeling career.