The prerequisites for becoming a model have changed much since the 50’s when a model had to be a certain size to do the job. This was because fashion manufacturers made dress and suit samples in one size only, so it was easier to find a model in that particular size than make a sample in a different size.

These days models can come in all shapes and sizes but in the world of fashion modelling the old standards have changed only a little.


Standard Requirements for Fashion Models

Female
At least 5’8” (1.73m)
Measurements 34”-24”-34” (86cm-61cm-86cm)
In most cases over 16 years old.

Male
At least 6’ (1.83m)
38”-40” chest (97cm-102cm)
30”-32” waist (76cm-81cm)
In most cases over 16 years old.


Looks

In terms of looks of course a fashion model has to be beautiful but this does not necessarily mean in a conventional way. In many cases it is intriguing or striking features that will make one model stand out from all the others and thus be exactly what the agent or photographer is looking for.


Body Mass Index

Despite changes in trends fashion models are, and always have been, slim. However as you may be aware some forces in the industry are moving to ostracise models who are dangerously underweight. The Body Mass Index (BMI) is used for indication of healthy body weight. A BMI of 18.5 is regarded to be the lowest level a healthy adult should be. Models with a BMI of under 18 were banned from Madrid Fashion Week in September 2006.


Working Out your BMI

To work out your BMI you can use one of the numerous BMI calculators on the Internet, or you can work it out using the calculation below:

First of all:

Work out your height in metres, then multiply it by itself.
Work out your weight in kilograms.

The Sum:

Weight / Height Squared = BMI


Example:

5’8” (1.73m) and 10 stone (63.5 kg) = BMI of 21.23

1.73m x 1.73m = 2.99m
10 stone = 63.5 kg

63.5 / 2.99 = BMI of 21.23

The BMI Scale:

Underweight = <18.5
Normal weight = 18.5-24.9
Overweight = 25-29.9
Obese = BMI of 30 or greater



Sub-Divisions of Fashion Modelling


Editorial Modelling
Fashion magazines such as Vogue, Elle, Glamour, Cosmo etc feature models wearing the next trend in fashion.

Runway Modelling
Models parade down a runway, displaying a designer’s latest collection for potential buyers.

Catalogue Modelling
Catalogues are used to show off clothes on a beautiful person.

Print Modelling
This is modelling for printed advertising. This is quite an elite sector of modelling as these adverts may appear in magazines and billboards all over the world.

Show Room Modelling
This is modelling for buyers in a designer’s show room.

Lingerie Modelling
Modelling lingerie for print, runway, catalogues and other.

Fitness Models
Modelling items for sportswear company adverts.

Fit Modelling
A model with perfect measurements, who would be employed to be a living mannequin for a designer.

Tea Room Modelling
At small functions where the model will wander among the guests wearing clothes that are for sale.

Plus Size
Models who are tall but are UK Size 10 or above.

Petite Modelling
Petite Models are usually between 5’2” and 5’6”.