How to be a fashion model

Posted in Modeling

Feb 01, 12

The image of a high fashion model is probably the first thing that comes to people’s minds when hearing the word “model”. Fashion modeling has the prestige, the glamour and the extraordinary pay checks! However, it goes without saying that it is not an easy world to enter, and even if you manage to get in, your success is never entirely secure.

The key areas of how to be a fashion model are universal to modeling in general (hard work, good people skills, luck) except that with fashion modeling, the vital statistics are more, well, vital!

Standard fashion model stats are 34B-24-34 and 5’9″ and 5’11″ and you will need to have a wide and varied portfolio taken by a very good photographer.

One thing that many aspiring fashion models fail to do is immerse themselves in the world of fashion. You should know the names of all the top designers, understand how clothes are made, and have a feel for how high fashion trends are moving. This will prove to people within the industry that you speak their language and they will be more willing to work with you.

But when it comes down to it, you will either have the look that design houses are looking for, or you won’t. But the good thing is that there are so many different markets out there, if you have the basic attributes, the desire, the versatility and the strength of character, there is at least a chance you can make it in fashion modeling. Once you have put together your portfolio, search for fashion model agencies and wow them!

Am I the right body shape?

Despite many campaigns to change the way the industry works, the sad fact is that for mainstream fashion modeling you will need to be slim. But if you are not naturally slim, then don’t let that stop you.

Plus size modeling is gaining in popularity, and this takes in sizes from 8 (yes, 8!) to 14. So don’t feel you necessarily have to avoid Krispy Kremes for the rest of your life!