The fashion industry is more globally connected than ever, with several fashion “capitals” located around the world. One such fashion capital is Tokyo, Japan, which stands out among other prestigious fashion cities as one of the quirkiest. If you’re looking for a fun way to get your modeling career off the ground, modeling in Japan could be a great opportunity for you. Here’s what you need to know about getting traction in the Japanese fashion industry.
Modeling in Japan
When it comes to the most important cities in the world for fashion, the Big Four, which include New York City, Paris, London, and Milan, have remained the same for quite some time. But Tokyo, and subsequently the Japanese fashion industry as a whole, is on the rise, with Vogue Business ranking them in fifth place among the top ten fashion capitals of the world, notably ahead of Los Angeles.
Japan is a particularly intriguing market for many newcomers from the U.S. and Europe to explore since agencies tend to seek out foreign talent almost as much as they look for local models. This can help you be a bit more competitive while finding work in a highly prestigious market. When it comes to physical requirements for fashion models, Japanese modeling agencies also tend to be a bit more realistic. For example, males can get hired if they’re 5’10” or 5’11” and women can be 5’6” or 5’7” and land representation at most agencies.
How to Become a Model in Japan
For models looking for quality representation by an agency, you’ll want to focus on building a solid portfolio. Get professional test shots completed if you are struggling to find paid shoots and continue to put yourself out there. Many agencies in Japan don’t necessarily look for big names on resumes. If you can show an agency work that proves you have talent and you fit the look, you have a good shot at getting hired.
Many Japanese modeling agencies provide incentives to pick up and move across the world to start working. In fact, it’s pretty much par for the course to cover travel and living expenses for models who relocate to Japan to start modeling.
Most agencies in Tokyo also work with a guarantee system, where they pay models upfront for their first two months on contract, typically $10,000 to $20,000, with top models getting up to $150,000 guaranteed. This is done in anticipation of the models earning that money back through gigs, with additional earnings coming in after the guarantee threshold has been topped. And if models end up not earning enough through gigs to cover their guarantee, there is no expectation to pay it back.
Some models end their two-month contracts in Japan and are able to seamlessly transition to other fashion capitals, like New York City or Paris. But many find themselves returning to Japan for work due to the positive experience.
Working your way up to modeling in Japan will be much easier if you can get representation for local gigs and build up your portfolio. From there, your career can get a major boost by working in Tokyo, and you may even find yourself wanting to return in the future.
As an enthusiast deeply entrenched in the world of fashion, I bring to you a wealth of knowledge and firsthand expertise in the global fashion industry. My understanding spans from the iconic fashion capitals like New York City, Paris, London, and Milan to emerging centers like Tokyo, Japan. I've closely followed the evolution of these fashion hubs and have a particular focus on the unique dynamics of the Japanese fashion industry.
The claim that Tokyo is a rising star in the fashion world is not just hearsay; it's substantiated by credible sources. Vogue Business, a reputable publication in the industry, has ranked Tokyo as the fifth among the top ten fashion capitals globally. This recognition places it ahead of major contenders like Los Angeles, signifying the growing influence of Japanese fashion.
Japan's allure for aspiring models, especially from the U.S. and Europe, is not arbitrary but grounded in the industry's practices. Japanese modeling agencies actively seek foreign talent, providing an enticing opportunity for newcomers. This strategic approach contributes to making the Japanese fashion market more accessible and competitive for models looking to establish themselves in a prestigious environment.
When it comes to physical requirements, Japanese modeling agencies display a refreshing realism. The criteria for male models, at 5'10" or 5'11", and female models, at 5'6" or 5'7", are more inclusive compared to the stringent standards in other major fashion capitals. This openness widens the pool of potential models, fostering diversity in the industry.
For those aspiring to become models in Japan, building a compelling portfolio is key. Japanese agencies prioritize talent and suitability over big names, offering a pathway for models to secure representation based on their skills and compatibility with the desired look. Professional test shots become instrumental in showcasing one's capabilities and enhancing the chances of being hired.
Relocating to Japan for modeling is not just a leap of faith; it often comes with tangible incentives. Agencies commonly cover travel and living expenses for models making the move, making the transition more feasible. Moreover, the industry operates on a guarantee system, where models receive upfront payments for their initial two months on contract, ranging from $10,000 to $20,000, and top models may even secure guarantees up to $150,000. This financial support is a testament to the confidence agencies have in their models, anticipating that they will generate earnings surpassing the guarantee through various gigs.
Interestingly, the Japanese modeling experience often serves as a stepping stone to other fashion capitals, such as New York City or Paris. While some seamlessly transition to these renowned centers, many models find themselves drawn back to Japan, attesting to the positive and enriching experiences they encounter in the local fashion scene.
In conclusion, navigating the Japanese fashion industry involves a combination of talent, perseverance, and strategic planning. With a realistic approach to physical standards, a focus on building a solid portfolio, and the allure of financial incentives, modeling in Japan presents a unique and exciting opportunity for those looking to make a mark in the global fashion arena.
