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Types of Modeling – Modeling Industry Categories

The current national and international modeling scene is well-established with specific yet unofficial requirements and model categories already in place. Knowing what these are where you fit in will help you better position yourself to pursue your modeling career. As a model, you may fit in to only one or multiple categories. Here they are at a glance:

FASHION MODEL:

A Fashion Model’s requirements are the most stringent and specific. This includes “Runway” or “Editorial” modeling. A typical Fashion Model in this category should be young, tall and thin. Specifially, this means the fashion industry size standards as listed below:

FEMALE FASHION MODELS:

  • Height: 5’9” to 6”
  • Measurement: 34-24-34. (There are rare exceptions within one inch, maybe two. Anything beyond is extremely unlikely to be considered)
  • Age: 16-21 years old
  • Size: 0-4

MALE FASHION MODELS:

  • Height: At least 6’
  • Weight: 150-180 lbs, directly proportional to height
  • Measurement: Waist between 29” to 32”. Jacket size between 40 and 42
  • Age: 18-25 years old

EDITORIAL FASHION MODEL: These types of models are featured in the editorial spreads of pages like Elle, SHE, Vogue, Flare, etc. They must fit the modeling requirements for a “Fashion Model” (listed above) in order to be considered. Most editorial fashion in Canada is Toronto-based. Other opportunities in editorial fashion can sometimes be found in major cities such as Montreal and Vancouver.

FASHION CATALOG MODEL: The requirements here are slightly less restrictive than fashion modeling in terms of height and measurement requirements. Catalog modeling still has rigid standards nonetheless.. Catalog models found in clothing catalogs online and offline, posing in a variety of outfits. This category is where most models fit and can be very lucrative for a model.

RUNWAY MODEL: Catwalk or Runway Models are hired to wear and display the fashion garments of a clothing designer. They must fit sample size clothing on display. They must be tall (5’9” and up for females, 6’ and up for males), slender and have measurements that fit the standard designer clothing size. And they definitely must know how to work the catwalk.

COMMERCIAL MODEL: Most agency models fit and work in this category. Commercial Models can take on many different and fun projects, including: print advertisements, catalogs, websites, campaigns, television shows, magazines, trade shows and much more. The possibilities here are endless. There is no height or size requirement for Commercial Modeling. If you are dying to be a fashion model but simply do not fit the size requirements for mainstream “Fashion Modeling”, you can find work and book great paying jobs as a “Commercial Fashion Model” doing fashion print and projects, of which there is abundance of demand for. Not interested in being a Commercial Fashion Model? This category of modeling accommodates many types of looks: from the girl-next-door, to middle-aged men, to those with very “unique, interesting, and character” faces.

PRINT MODEL: Print models are used for many different kinds of publications: magazines, print advertisements, billboards, posters, subway ads, wrap adverts (on buildings and buses,) calendars, campaigns, booklets, flyers and banners. Print models must have an attractive face, good skin, a nice figure and of course, a pleasing smile.

PROMOTIONAL MODEL: A Promotional Model, also known as a “Promo Model,” is hired to represent a brand, product, or service. This category of modeling does not have a height or weight requirement. It is easier to get into promo modeling than many other types of modeling. While there are no height or weight requirements, there are other general requirements for booking paid promo work: a great attitude, outgoing nature, a nice smile, and the ability to work with the public. These models may take part in events such as The Food and Wine Show or The Auto Show.

PETITE MODEL: These are models that are on the shorter side who are typically 5’4” and under. While they will not be able to find work as a fashion model, petite models can find work in other categories such as a print, commercial or promotional modeling.

FITNESS MODEL: Fitness Models are in superior shape. They are healthy, proportioned and have good muscle tone. There are no size or height requirements except being in exceptional shape.

PLUS-SIZE MODEL: “Plus-Sized” or “Full Figured Models” are beautiful models that just do not fit the stringent size requirements for mainstream modeling. They have fuller figures, weigh more and have pretty faces. They can be hired as Catalog Models for plus-sized clothing brands and stores, as well as many other job opportunities.

NUDE MODEL: Nude Models typically only find work in photoshoots. They can pose topless, partially or fully nude. There are no height or weight requirements but must have good proportion and good skin tone.

Max Agency represents types of models. To be considered at an Evaluation Meeting by an Agent, please fill out the Application Form here:  http://maxagency.com/application.php.