M.A.D.E
Magazine
WHAT TYPE OF MODEL ARE YOU?!
If you are here on this page then I'm guessing that you're into modeling, you thought about modeling or you just want to try it out to see if you would like it but, like most people getting into modeling the real question of what type of model am I or what type of modeling should I do? Well, today is your lucky day because I'm going to help you out a bit, below, are the types of models and some explanations on what they are and what they do to give you some idea of where you might belong, Enjoy!
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. (sometimes there is a height requirement here)
Fashion (Catalog) Model
With the internet boom, catalog models are in demand, more than ever before. They set new fashion trends in Print catalogs and are also taking over the digital world by storm. Catalog models are required to look more like real people, to catch the attention of the client's diverse audience. Their purpose is to attract customers to purchase products or avail their services, using catchy visuals and well-written content. So they don’t really adhere to the stringent requirements of fashion models. However, they do need to have a striking personality, the right attitude, healthy skin and hair, and a million-watt smile. Depending on the catalog, the client sets his/ her requirement for short, tall, young, old, thin, or plus-size models of diverse ethnicities.
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 varies 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 industries. 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.
Mature Model
It is never too late to start working as a professional mature model. More than experience, it is important that you are comfortable behind the frame, exude grace and a warm personality, and have a professional attitude. A mature model is generally above 35- 40 years of age and is healthy and physically fit. Greys, wrinkles, or age spots are not a concern for a mature model. Several high-end fashion magazines, major fashion houses, and high streetwear brands are opening up to the idea of using models of different ages for their campaigns and catalogs. There are also assignments in the health, pharmaceutical, and editorial areas.
Parts Model
A Parts Model specializes in modeling for specific parts of the body such as hand, leg, feet, facial features. A parts model works on editorial, advertising, and catalog work. This type of modeling is focused on very specific visual requirements. For instance, for a jewelry brand endorsement, the model is required to have flawless, smooth even-toned skin, with well-trimmed and shaped nails.
Fit Model
Fit Models work with fashion designers and manufacturers to make sure that each garment has the ideal sizing, drape, fit, and movement. Since garment and fashion industries cater to a wider audience, their samples are made considering a variety of shapes and sizes in mind. Their products cannot be shipped without checking the size of their garments. That is where the role of a fit model comes into play. Fit models need not have the editorial and runway figures printed in magazines but their job requires them to be well-toned and maintain consistent body weight, whether petite or plus-sized. With ideal size 6 or 8 physiques, fit models play a very important role in how the clothes we buy actually fit.
Swimsuit and Lingerie Model
Swimsuits and lingerie models are often confused with glamour models, but they are not the same. As the name suggests, swimsuits and lingerie models model-specific garments like lingerie, swimsuit, summer, and nightwear. 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.
Child Model
Think wide-eyed babies, grinning from ear to ear, donning the latest kids couture, or endorsing a range of products. Agencies typically look for children who are friendly, happy, interactive, crowd-friendly, and fast learners. They are generally below 13 years of age. From editorial jobs to advertising contracts, a child model can be employed in various projects. The size and height of a child model vary from one project to another. Agencies have a very skill-based approach when they make a selection. They mostly consider a child who is smart with the ability to interact and work with strangers. The child should be intuitive, adaptive, and understanding.
Petite Models
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.
Plus-Size Models
With increasing demand in the commercial and fashion industry, there are more opportunities for plus-size models. Most industries and agencies have a separate plus-size division, which is opening up new opportunities in the modeling world. More and more fashion agencies are giving a fresh perspective on modeling by redefining set standards of ‘beauty’ in a fashion that is different from traditional mainstream modeling i.e. tall, skinny and flawless. A plus-size model can walk runways, work on assignments with major fashion brands, do commercial modeling for multiple magazines and media outlets.
For print media, the requirement is size 12-14. The runway requires models in sizes 18-22. As a plus-size model, It is important to be comfortable in your own skin. You must be confident, and promote a healthy lifestyle focused on mental and physical well-being.
Runway Models
Runway Models or catwalk models are perhaps the most influential, as they popularize a lot of fashion-driven content and adaptations in personal styling. The height requirements are 5.9 and above for female models and between 5'11" to 6'2" for male models. The fashion industry is very strict and has high, and sometimes unreasonable standards. Since the requirements are not very flexible, it is a hard industry to get into. Most fashion designers hire models to fit into their collections. Skinny models are mostly preferred.
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. As they are not represented by any agent or agency they may end up with fewer gigs compared to other models. But they will save a good amount of money because they do not have to pay any commissions which ultimately affect how much money they make.
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 photoshoots 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 of the business. Requirements for freelance models depend on the type of modeling they want to pursue.
