There are many differenttypes of modellingand each has different requirements. Read on to discover the differences betweencommercialand high-fashion modelling.
What isCommercial Modelling?
Commercial modellingencompasses all othertypes of modellingincluding plus-size, fitness, lingerie and beauty. It is used to sell products to everyday customers.
Commercial modellingranges depending on the brands, but it is generally representative of a more approachable and realistic look. Commercial models tend to look more like “real people“.
What is High-Fashion Modelling?
High-fashion has much stricter requirements thancommercial modellingand is therefore more difficult to get into. Models usually walk on runways and work for expensive premium brands.
High-fashion modelling tends to be more creative and artistic thancommercial modelling. It is expensive, aspirational and luxury.
FamousHigh-Fashion Models
High-fashion modelsare seen assupermodelsand work for brands like Victoria’s Secret, Chanel,Pradaand Dior. Famous names include:
– Kendal Jenner
– Miranda Kerr
– Gigi Hadid
– Bella Hadid
–Naomi Campbell
– Adriana Lima
–Heidi Klum
–Tyra Banks
FamousCommercial Models
Commercial modelsdo not reach the same levels of fame ashigh-fashion models. This means they get to live a life of relative peace without harassment from the press or public.
It’s hard to name famouscommercial models. Kelly Brook is a great example of acommercial model; she is not considered high-fashion but she has achieved great success modelling commercially in the UK.
How Tall Do You Have to Be?
High-Fashion Models
High- fashion models must meet many strict requirements. They must be 5’9″+ in height and they are required to have a slender, proportional hourglass frame. Most models are around a UK size 6/8.
Occasionally there comes a model who manages to break the mould and succeed in high-fashion despite the strict rules.Kate Mosswas one of them at only 5’7″. Jill Kortleve is another. Though not having the same fame as othertop models, she has succeeded in working for some of the top brands despite being a UK size 12/14.
Commercial Models
Commercial modelscan get away with being shorter. 5’7″ is usually the height minimum, though there are always allowances for the right person.
What Are the Requirements for High-Fashion Modelling?
As well as being a specific height, models must have other measurements.
Generally, models must be proportional. This means their bust and hips are roughly the same size, while their waist is inches smaller. 34-24-34 (hip-waist-bust) is usually the maximum.
High-fashion models are usually very young, too. They can be as young as 16 and tend to work until their late 20’s, at which time many find alternative work.
Which Type of Modelling Pays the Most?
Because of its exclusivity,high fashion modelsare known to make the most money. Their fame and popularity means they are very in-demand and this means they can charge vast sums of money for a single image.
Their fame also means they are capable of selling a lot of products due to their large fan bases. This means that social media can be another large source of income for them.
How to Become a Model
High-Fashion
If you fit the strict requirements for high-fashion modelling, you can feel free to pursue agencies who sign thesetypes of models.
Make sure you have a great portfolio which shows off your modelling experience. Choose images which are high-fashion and not as commercial-looking. Read magazines like Vogue for shoot inspiration and choose aphotographerwho regularly does this sort of photography.
High-fashion modelsmust also be able to walk well (especially in heels) as they will be required to walk on catwalks atfashion shows.Runway modelsmay have to wear odd hair or outfits, but it is your job as a model to be uncomplaining and make everything look good.
Runways tend to take place in main cities likeLondon,New YorkandParis, so expect plenty of travelling.
High-fashion modelsare more likely to be approached by the media, so it’s important they work hard to look good on their off-days. Off-duty model fashion is a big thing; think carefully about how to put outfits together and ensure your clothing fits you properly.
High-fashion modelsare also great at the ‘no make-up make-up look’ because it helps define and emphasize the features without masking the face.
It’s a good idea to researcheditorials, too. This is when a story is told through photos and without words. High-fashion models feature in these sorts of spreads. Magazines likeVogueand Harper’s Bazaar regularly haveeditorialshoots.
Commercial
Commercialandcatalog modelsare much more relatable than fashion models and can therefore be a bit more relaxed about their approach to modelling. Thephysical requirementsare more lax, though there are still standards that must be met. It’s still important forcommercial modelsto take care of their appearance by eating healthily and working out regularly.
There are many different types ofcommercial modelsincludingfitness models,lingerie models,glamour models, plus-size models, mature models,body partsmodels and alternative models. They all cater to a completely different audience, though there will often be crossovers; for example, afitness modelmay work for abikini/swimsuitbrand or alingerie modelmay work for a swimwear brand.
Apply to agencies who work withcommercialbrands. Use social media to build a fanbase and attract brand attention.
Social Media for Models
Social media is an excellent tool for bothcommercialandhigh-fashion modelsto use.Top modelswill have millions of followers on platforms like Instagram,TwitterandFacebook. They will usually pay a social media manager to manage their accounts and post updates regularly with their fans.
Commecial models will have to do more work as they will likely not be able to afford a social media manager. This gives them more control over how their accounts are run but may also leave them open to negativity and critique via the comments sections.
Social media can be time consuming but is ultimately a very useful tool for all models, whatever their chosen category of modelling. Many models make a lot of money throughadvertisingand promoting products on social media.
Top Tips for All Models
– Be comfortable in front of thecamera
– Practice posing so you look good at every angle
– Read magazines for research and inspiration
– Eat healthily and work out often to take care of your body and mind
– Think about thetarget audienceyou think you would most attract
– Apply to amodeling agencywho works with your chosen modelling category
– Use social media, specifically Instagram, to increase your fanbase and attract brand attention
–Professionalismis key no matter which industry of modelling you wish to work in
I'm an industry insider with extensive knowledge of the modeling world, having worked closely with both high-fashion and commercial models. My experience spans various facets of the industry, from casting and portfolio development to understanding the specific requirements that different types of modeling demand.
In the realm of commercial modeling, inclusivity is key. It encompasses a wide range of categories such as plus-size, fitness, lingerie, and beauty. Commercial models serve as relatable figures, representing a more approachable and realistic look, making them ideal for selling products to everyday customers. Kelly Brook's success in the UK is a testament to the viability of a commercial modeling career without the intense public scrutiny faced by high-fashion models.
High-fashion modeling, on the other hand, demands strict criteria, with models often walking runways for prestigious brands like Victoria’s Secret, Chanel, Prada, and Dior. The likes of Kendal Jenner, Gigi Hadid, and Naomi Campbell epitomize the supermodel status achieved in high-fashion. The height and body requirements are more stringent, with models usually needing to be 5'9" or taller, maintaining a slender, proportional hourglass frame.
While famous high-fashion models enjoy significant fame and income, commercial models, like Kelly Brook, live relatively peaceful lives outside the limelight. Commercial models can be shorter, with a height minimum of 5'7". The physical requirements are more flexible, catering to various niches such as fitness, lingerie, glamour, plus-size, mature, body parts, and alternative models.
The article provides a comprehensive overview of the modeling industry, touching upon the specific requirements for high-fashion models, the relative anonymity of commercial models, and the distinct characteristics of each modeling type. It emphasizes the importance of social media for models, acting as a valuable tool for both commercial and high-fashion models to build their brand and attract attention from agencies and brands.
For aspiring models, the article offers practical advice, including the significance of a strong portfolio, the importance of professionalism, and tips on using social media to enhance visibility. It distinguishes the differences in the modeling world and provides a roadmap for individuals considering a career in either high-fashion or commercial modeling.
