Types of models


Models typically fall into two distinct categories: fashion and commercial. Some individual models can work in both.

In general, women's fashion models are between 16 - 22 years and are over 5'7" tall. In addition, fashion models are thin. Very thin. It is not the biggest category of modeling, but it does get the most attention.

Within the fashion category there are two more divisions: commercial fashion and editorial fashion.

Commercial-fashion models have more typically pretty features and can have a more natural figure: not exceptionally thin, more bust, or athletic figure. The work they commonly pursue are catalogs such as J. Crew, magazines such as Self and Mademoiselle, and advertisements ranging from cosmetics to cars.

Editorial-fashion models often have exceptional and striking looks that can be more unconventional features. The term refers to models who appear in magazines such Vogue and Harper's Bazzar. Editorial offers the photographer or publication the chance to stretch the boundaries of conventional beauty. Designers often try generating considerable attention to their work by using unconventional models in their advertising. Calvin Klein has consistently pushed the boundaries of conventional casting.

Commercial models work on a broad range of assignments and can have a broader range of looks. Virtually every model appearing in a non-fashion TV commercial, magazine advertisement, or catalog is a commercial model or actor. Height and weight requirements are more broad and looks can range from conventional beauty to character types. Typically men, women, and children with symmetrical facial features, clear skin, attractive hair, and healthy physiques get the most opportunities. Even though height requirements are broader, taller models have more success and are easier to fit into wardrobe and match with other models for group shots.


Frequently asked modeling questions