I always get a lot of private message from lovely ladies (and some gentlemen too), asking me things like: “Can I be a model?” followed by the details about their height and physique description. While I can’t tell you, people, what you can or can’t do, this question is just too broad and general. It’s actually a matter of what you’re willing to do and what you’re not willing to do in order to be a model. I’ve been in this industry for years now and I know that the modeling industry needs all dedicated people in different shapes and sizes. I’m pretty sure that most of you would fit into a certain category if you work hard enough to get there. You’re probably hearing this everywhere: “You have to be beautiful, tall and slender with perfect proportions if you want to be a model!” While this is true for high fashion models because of how certain designers want their model to be the one who shows their designs the best way, it doesn’t apply to all the fields of modeling. If by any chance you feel like you do not fit these criteria, don’t let this get in the way of your dreams! There are other areas in the modeling industry that you can work successfully. All you have to do is find out where you perfectly fit.

High Fashion

This is where you see the incredibly tall and lean figures of models that walk the runways and editorials for leading fashion houses and designers. They’re called high fashion models and are generally required to be between 172cm up to 180cm tall with a dress size of US 4-6 and a bust size of 34. They can be 14 to 25 years of age. For men, the age range can be more flexible. Starting from the age of 16 until their late 40’s if they can take care of themselves properly. Men need to be 180cm to 188cm tall with a great physique and a chest size of 94cm up to 106cm, and a waistline of 76cm to 81cm. High fashion can be a bit specific in terms of how they want their models, but just in case you don’t fit, there are more options below.

Editorial Print

The name says it all. This type of modeling is for magazine editorials and covers such as Vogue and Elle. The standard requirements are similar to that in high fashion and it is a requirement for you to be photogenic. Most of the time, the same models from high fashion will also work in editorial print. These editorials are great in providing exposure for models. However, the fees are relatively low. It takes a few years to gain the experience needed to be able to grab the higher paying jobs.

Catalog Model

There is an increasing number of websites that require models to help promote their goods online. This can be very profitable for a lot of models. Basically, companies come up with a catalog, whether print or online, in order to sell their clothing lines, jewelry lines, shoe lines, or other various products. The model’s job is to help make the products look good. The requirements would depend on what the company needs. They may need models who are petite, tall, plus-size, nice looking feet or hands, or whatever fits the category that they believe can boost their sales.

Body Parts Modeling

I’m sure you’ve seen advertisements that consist of just body parts and not an entire face especially for cosmetics, jewelry, etc. The most common body parts are usually hair, eyes, lips, hands, legs, and feet. The only requirement for this would be for you to have exceptionally well-proportioned body parts.

Plus Size

This is for the larger body type models. if you’re confident about your body and are between the sizes of US 12-16 and a minimum of 172cm height, then this could be the right fit for you. You also need to have nice skin, teeth, and hair. This can also be integrated into catalog modeling.

Commercial Print

If high fashion and an editorial print isn’t your thing, commercial print could be the one for you. This is probably a great way to start your career if you want a more forgiving standard. Commercial print is a huge market and it encompasses all kinds of print advertising. From magazines to products in supermarkets, cosmetics, services, and billboards. With that in mind, advertisers and brands will look for models that are highly relatable to their audience or models that can represent the people that will buy their products. Models ranging from mothers, grandfathers, and teenagers can fit right into what the advertisers need.

Glamor Modeling

The good thing about glamor modeling is that height restrictions don’t necessarily apply, which is great for a lot of aspiring models. This type of modeling can range from swimwear to lingerie shoots, including artistic and nude photography to magazines. It’s highly critical for you to be beautiful, confident and sexy with an outgoing personality.

TV Commercials

This is a step further from commercial print. This can require acting skills and a model type appearance in order to be successful in this field. By model type appearance, the standards would depend upon what the agency needs in order to represent their campaign or brand. It does not have overall criteria for height, size, and age because commercials need someone different and specific for that job. The advantage of this type of modeling is that brands are continuously seeking models that the public can easily identify with and relate to.

Influencer Models

Let’s say that these models are the “It” people. Brands are starting to recognize the power of people who have a very large social media following. Especially those who have a very interesting online presence because they’re beautiful, alternative, quirky and every other current trend that most people are acing in their profiles on Instagram, Twitter, and even Facebook. For some brands, they would do collaborations with their influencer and in return, they may or may not receive financial compensation or free products and services from the brand. This type of modeling doesn’t have height requirements or anything like that, but it would depend greatly on the follower count and influence power of the model influencer.

Real Life Models / TV Extras

This can be an interesting career but it consists of possible long hours and lots of waiting around. If your schedule is flexible, this can be a good way to earn and supplement your income. You can be hired as a TV/Film extra and you can be featured with no speaking parts and in the background of a scene.

As you can see, there is a wide variety of modeling opportunities for you if you’re really willing and ready to pursue your dreams and career as a model. One try may never be enough to get you on that perfect ride to top model status, but don’t let a few failures define your journey. I’m pretty sure you’ll find a perfect fit!