Fashion Model

Job Description:

Fashion models promote clothing and accessory brands at fashion events and in magazines and digital media.

Job Category:

Art & Fashion

What you will do:

You’ll often have to go to casting sessions with potential clients or agencies. You’ll also spend a lot of time looking after your appearance.

You could specialise in different types of modelling, like:

high fashion and catwalk
photographic editorials for magazines
advertising for magazines, billboards, websites, and social media
TV commercials
promotional modelling like music videos, personal appearances, leaflets and brochures
in-house live modelling for designers and clothing wholesalers

In fashion show modelling you’ll walk along a catwalk, turning to display clothes in front of an audience. You’ll work closely with stylists, hair and make-up artists, producers and directors.

In photographic, advertising and promotional modelling you’ll:

take directions from photographers
pose for photographers in a studio or on location
act or deliver lines in TV commercials

Skills:

You’ll need:

to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

As well as:

the ability to work well with others (teamwork skills)
active listening skills
to be flexible and open to change
physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace
patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
the ability to organise your time and workload (organisational skills)
concentration skills
physical fitness and endurance

Illustration of employee looking at workspace

Entry Requirements:

Becoming a fashion model doesn’t require specific GCSE subjects, but maintaining a healthy lifestyle, pursuing proper training and education, and building a strong portfolio are crucial for success in the fashion modeling industry. However, it’s also important to focus on your education and personal development. Here are some general tips on what you can do:

Physical Health: Maintaining good physical health is essential in the modeling industry. This includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, and proper skincare. Aim for overall fitness and well-being rather than a specific body type.
Education: While specific GCSE subjects may not be critical for modeling, it’s essential to complete your basic education to have a strong foundation in reading, writing, and mathematics.
Modeling Training: Consider enrolling in modeling schools or taking modeling courses to learn the fundamentals of modeling, including posing, runway walking, and camera presence. These courses can help you build the skills necessary for the industry.
Professional Portfolio: Aspiring models should work on building a professional modeling portfolio. This includes a variety of high-quality photographs showcasing different looks, styles, and poses. A strong portfolio is crucial for attracting modeling agencies and clients.
Networking: Attend open casting calls, modeling events, and fashion shows to network with industry professionals, including scouts, agents, and photographers. Building connections can lead to modeling opportunities.
Online Presence: Create a professional social media presence on platforms like Instagram, where many models and agencies showcase their work. Be mindful of the content you share to maintain a positive image.
Confidence: Confidence is key in modeling. Work on developing your self-confidence, both in front of the camera and in social situations. Confidence will help you perform well during auditions and photo shoots.
Agency Representation: Consider reaching out to modeling agencies that specialize in your desired niche, such as fashion, commercial, or runway modeling. They can help you find opportunities and guide your career.
Acceptance of Rejection: The modeling industry is highly competitive, and rejection is common. Be prepared for it and develop resilience.

Post School

You can get into this job through:

volunteering
applying directly

Volunteering

You could develop your skills as a model by helping out with charity fashion shows.

Direct Application

You’ll usually start your career by going to a model agency in person or sending photographs and details of your measurements to them.

You’ll need a good appearance and the right ‘look’ for the area of modelling you want to go into.

You should usually be well-proportioned for fashion modelling, with regular features and healthy skin, teeth and hair. For other types of modelling you would need to fit in with the look that modelling agencies want.

You don’t need to do a modelling course or have an expensive portfolio of pictures.

Working Hours and Environment:

A typical week consists of 45-47 hours of work. You may be required to freelance/be self-employed attending events or appointments.

You could work at a TV studio, at a film studio, in a photographic studio or at a store.

Your working environment may be physically and emotionally demanding and you’ll travel often.

Career Path & Progression:

With experience, you could become a booker for a model agency or set up your own agency. You could also move into other areas of the fashion industry like styling or fashion journalism.

You might also find opportunities in areas like TV presenting or acting.