In the modeling world, buff hunks are out and skinny dudes are in (2024)

Muscular, classically chiseled male models are a dying breed as men in the fashion industry are now more often chosen for thinness and even androgyny.

It only takes looking back a decade to male fashion shows — at Versace, Givenchy, Louis Vuitton or Gucci — to see the change on the catwalk.

Just as the fashion world is beginning to slowly include the occasional fuller-figured female model on the runway, male models seem to be picked out for their lanky frames.

Slimming down: Designers (likeDior Homme, pictured) have been sending skinnier male models down the runway

Trend: The men (pictured at Julien Macdonald) are less likely to be buff than in years past

Looking at men on the runway of New York, London, and Milan this month, it seems shoulders have lost their squareness and chests have sunk.

Back in the early- to mid-00's, 'male models were a little bit bigger... not so, so skinny,' said Tricia Romani, head of the Canadian branch of the Wilhelmina international modeling agency.

Designer Hedi Slimane, while at Saint Laurent and Dior, was among the designers who transfigured the dominant vision of the masculine look into lank, languorous, and unique.

'For high fashion, that's definitely what they want. Very thin, edgy-looking guys,' Romani said. 'And they're designing the clothes in that way so if you had a model that was big and muscular, that wouldn't fit.'

Something different: Canadian Wilhelmina modeling agency head Tricia Romani said designers are casting guys who look 'edgy'

They know what they want: She added that even the clothes are designed for slimmer models

Models at theFelipe Oliveira Baptista show in New York are seen with slim, hollow cheeks

Skinnier, the new ideal male model is also taller, hitting up to six feet two inches, said Neil Mautone, founder and owner of the agency Red Model Management.

Along with the fading ideal of muscle is the classically beautiful face, formerly in demand for men as well as women.

Today, according to Romani, 'a male model can be sort of interesting looking, or edgy or different' and be hired even if he does not fall into 'a category of plastic, beautiful models.'

With the growing power of male fashion, seen in the 2015 launch of the first men's shows in New York Fashion Week, demand for male models has exploded.

Trend: The models being cast are taller and lankier than they were a decade ago

Some designers (likeBalmain, pictured) are even casting more androgynous-looking men

Between 10 percent to 15 percent of male models find enough work to be employed full-time, combining runway shows, advertising, catalogs and magazines, Romani said.

The top-end models can earn more than $1 million a year, people in the industry say, though the best-paid female models can make about 10 times more.

Responding to the growing market, model agencies and designers are trashing stereotypes and broadening their palettes, an approach that is also boosting ethnic diversity, Romani noted.

The new ideal look, the evolution of men's fashion, and the current focus on gender have blurred the lines between men and women.

Flex for us! A decade ago, male models were more often buff and muscular

The gun show! Six-packs and bulging biceps were expected (pictured at Armani Exchange in 2006)

That was more evident than ever on the New York catwalks earlier this month.Several shows were decidedly 'gender fluid,' parading out clothes that could be worn by either sex.

The streetwise New York brand Hood By Air, a pioneer of the trend, was joined by Dutch studio Maison the Faux and Baja East, a New York-based company known for relaxed luxury apparel.

For Maison the Faux, undoubtedly the most radical of them all, the men walked the runway wearing bras and girdles.

'Society always puts people in boxes and I think that doesn't make the world a better place,' said Tessa de Boer, one half of the design team at Maison the Faux.

Old-school: Models were expected to have a more traditionally masculine look (Calvin Klein, 2006)

In the sizing: Clothing was also cut a bit bigger to accommodate bigger men

The Wilhelmina agency has among its models a 26-year-old person who refuses to identify with a gender and goes simply by the name Lex.

The model notably has worked for N-p-Elliott, where Scottish designer Nicholas Elliott conjures up avant-garde, asexual clothes.

'Being so androgynous, to me, is a blessing,' Lex told AFP in an emailed response to questions. 'It increases my ability to participate in endless projects without limitation to my gender.'

'If men and women are equal, then what does all that matter?'

In the modeling world, buff hunks are out and skinny dudes are in (2024)

FAQs

Can you be a male model if you're skinny? ›

High fashion modelling has strict guidelines; male models should generally be between 5'11″ and 6'3” in height, their waist should measure 29-32 inches and their chest 39-40 inches. These figures will vary slightly depending on the agency, but scouts will always be on the lookout for toned, slim physiques.

Do girls like skinny guys? ›

Nevertheless, Lean Pockets do claim, at least by name alone, to be somewhat easy on the waistline. Which is a good thing, because, according to a new trending study, heterosexual women may be more attracted to men who are thin. Not surprisingly, 9 out of 10 belts agree.

Why are all clothing models skinny? ›

When showing off their newest fashions, designers obviously want their outfits to look as beautiful as possible. In order for that to happen, the clothes need to drape and flow, which happens naturally when they are placed on a tall, skinny frame. That is why most mannequins come in such a small size.

How much do male models weigh? ›

Male & Female Modeling Standards

When it comes to male models, they are typically expected to weigh between 120 and 170 pounds, which is also lower than the healthy weight for men. A man who reaches six feet tall, which is the average height for male models, should weigh somewhere between 160-196.

How do male models stay so thin? ›

The top male models have workout routines that are strikingly similar to professional athletes, even though they pose for pictures for a living. Weightlifting and cardio helps them shape their chiseled torsos, while diet helps them lose unwanted lbs before a big show or photo shoot.

Do skinny guys last longer in bed? ›

After the yearlong study, findings showed that heavier men with obvious bellies were able to last for an average of 7.3 minutes in bed, while thinner men barely lasted for two minutes, being more likely to suffer from premature ejacul*tion.

Why skinny guys are attractive? ›

Skinny Guys Are More Secure With Themselves

In contrast, skinny men don't seem all that concerned with their bodies one way or another, which could theoretically contribute to the confidence and security that's usually credited to BDE, when it's actually BNE — body neutral energy.

Do girls like muscular men? ›

Muscularity is sexy.

In a separate study, women reported that their short-term sexual partners were more muscular than their other partners. The researchers suggest women have fewer requirements for muscular men.

What is a size 0 model? ›

Models with very low BodyMass Index (BMI) are regarded as size 0 models. It is a measure of body fatbased on height and weight of a person. BMI is calculated by taking the weightin pounds (1 kg = 2.2 pounds) and dividing it by the height in feet.

Why do models not smile? ›

Smiling is a very personal expression, and it allows the personality of the model to show. But most fashion designers want their models to be “walking clothes hangers,” as close to being an unperson as possible. Hence, the neutral, impersonal expression.

What does a size 0 girl look like? ›

What is a zero size figure? A size zero figure typically refers to the body size of a woman. A bust size of 31 inches, waist size of 23 inches and hip size of 32 inches is generally considered as a size zero figure.

What foods do models avoid? ›

Foods Models Avoid
  • Alcohol.
  • Carbs or refined grains including bread, white pasta, white rice and tortillas.
  • Processed foods like chips, crisps, biscuits and fast foods.
  • Sugar.
  • Starchy vegetables like potatoes, sweet potatoes, corn or peas.
  • High sugar fruits including pineapple, mangoes, bananas and grapes.

What do models eat the most? ›

Most Victoria's Secret models follow a diet rich in nutrient-dense whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, proteins, and healthy fats. Here are some foods that are encouraged on the diet: Vegetables: broccoli, cauliflower, tomatoes, asparagus, squash, carrots.

What size are most male models? ›

Male measurements: Male fashion models are usually 6' to 6'5,” wear a size 40–42 top, and have a 32-inch waist.

What waist does a male model have to be? ›

A male model's waist should measure between 29-32 inches, and their chest should be around 39-40 inches. They must fit into a 40r jacket. This figure may differ slightly from brand to brand, but generally these are the statistics most agencies are looking for.

What does the average male model look like? ›

Generally, male fashion/editorial models are 6' to 6'5”, wear a size 40–42 top, and have a 32-inch waist. Shoe size may vary, but it is usually between size 9 and 12. Runway model: Runway models advertise a clothing designer or brand by walking in fashion shows.

What makes a man thin? ›

Low body weight is due to a variety of causes, including: Genetics. If you've been thin since high school and it runs in your family, it's likely that you were born with a higher-than-usual metabolism. You also may have a naturally small appetite.

How can I get a body like a male model? ›

For runway models, cardio is the most important aspect, with light strength training. You want to be lean without gaining a lot of visible muscle. For male models, muscle building and strength training are important, but you still want to maintain a lean body without a huge amount of muscle mass.

What height should a male model be? ›

The average height for a male model is between 5ft 10″ and 6 foot 2 inches, but runway requirements will be a lot stricter than streetwear. In general, agencies and brands prefer toned and slim physiques although imperfections can be a unique selling point and help the model standout from the crowd.

Do larger men last longer in bed? ›

According to a new study, overweight men are less prone to premature ejacul*tion and, thanks to a higher level of estradiol (a female hormone that delays climax), big dudes also tend to last longer in the sack--7.3. minutes, to be exact.

Do skinny guys hit hard? ›

The fact that skinny boxers can sometimes punch harder than their larger counterparts has been dealt with by people who understand science, boxing, and physics. Numerous studies suggest the advantage held by the smaller pugilists is due to increased power generated by the strength-to-weight ratio.

Are muscular guys better in bed? ›

That being said, men (and women) that work out tend to be more sexually satisfying because they can thrust harder, last longer, and have an athletic ability that unfit people do not have. So I would say that a muscular and athletic person has a better chance of being great at sex.

How do skinny guys look good? ›

Make sure your shirts fit snug across your chest so they accentuate your body. Look for shirts labeled “slim fit” so they don't hang loosely on your body or look baggy. These shirts will help bring out your upper body and flatter your form. Invest in a few henley shirts.

What is too skinny for a man? ›

From a clinical perspective, an individual is considered “too skinny” if they are deemed underweight. According to the Centers for Disease Control, an individual is underweight if their Body Mass Index (BMI) is below 18.5 [1].

Do girls like guys with abs? ›

Good news, guys! Over 75% of women prefer FLAB to abs: Sex therapist Tracey Cox explains why women DON'T want chiselled perfection in their bed. Three in four British women would choose a man with love handles over one sporting a six-pack.

What attracts females the most? ›

One of the most important characteristics that most women seek is modesty. Outspokenness, charity, and honesty are further feminine appeal traits that are always observed, along with humility. Nothing appeals to a woman more than a man with a great sense of self.

Which muscle girls love most? ›

"The shoulder muscles are really the muscles of love and war," says Nancy Etcoff, Ph. D., author of Survival of the Prettiest. They also make the whole look when combined with a broad back. Strong shoulders literally sweep women off their feet.

How many girls prefer muscular guys? ›

Surprisingly, the same study also states that 45 per cent of women prefer men with a little chubbiness or simply the average male body over an extremely muscular one. Many might argue that some do like the latter and so, only 2.5 per cent of women had favoured the lean, muscular type.

What size is most models? ›

Height is typically between 5'9″-6″, bust is between 32″-36″, waist is between 22″-26″, and hips should be between 33″-35″. Of course most woman don't meet these standards and that is why fashion models generally get paid the most and work the most.

What size is 000 in jeans? ›

Girls Jeans & Pants All Sizes
XX Small*X-Small
Size0000
Waist22.524.5
Hip32.534.5

What is a size 4 model? ›

Size 4: Height 5'6″-5'8″, bust 35, waist 27, hip 37.

What makes a smile unattractive? ›

The most common causes for unattractive smiles are: Crooked teeth, misalignments. Bite issues, such as open bite, cross-bite, deep bite. Tooth grinding and wear issues.

Do models wear bras? ›

While bras can be incredibly expensive – and warrant their own fashion shows – the undergarment can also hinder an outfit. Many designers opt for their models to go braless on the runway, even if they're wearing a sheer top. Or, especially if they're wearing a sheer top.

Why do models walk funny? ›

Models frequently use an interesting technique during catwalk walks: walking with crossed legs to showcase clothes differently during fashion shows or photo shoots. This method brings out visually appealing drapes on their legs while making clothes look more fluidly designed than ever before!

What age fits size 0? ›

Size 0 is great for babies between 6 to 12 months old with 10 kg of weight and 76 cm in height. This size, as the name suggests, is perfect for children around the 1-year-old mark. It's intended for babies up to 18 months, weighing up to 12 kg and measuring 84 cm.

What weight is size 0 clothes? ›

Gerber Sizing³:
Label / SizeWeight (pounds)Height / Length (inches)
N (Newborn)5 – 8 lbs17 – 21”
0 – 3 months8 – 12 lbs21 – 24”
0 – 6 monthsUp to 16 lbs17 – 26”
3 – 6 months12 – 16 lbs24 – 26”
9 more rows

What waist is size zero? ›

23" 24"

Why do models eat avocado? ›

As a member of the plant family, avocado is highly nutritious and is becoming incredibly popular among models who want more goodness in their nutrition plan. Full of vitamins and high in nutritious fats, the avocado is a rich source of energy for vegans and meat eaters alike.

What do models snack on? ›

The Healthy Snacks That Models Eat
  • NORI CHIPS. ADD SOME GUILT-FREE CALORIES TO YOUR NORI CHIPS WITH THESE DELICATELY SCRUMPTIOUS TUNA TARTARE NORI BITES BY HONESTLY YUM. ...
  • RICE PAPER. SUMMER ROLLS WITH GARDEN VEGGIES, BASIL + TAHINI CHILI SAUCE BY THIS RAWSOME VEGAN LIFE. ...
  • FROZEN BANANA. ...
  • PISTACHIO. ...
  • COCONUT FROZEN YOGHURT.

Do supermodels eat junk food? ›

Some models are born with faster metabolisms, which means they convert food into energy at a faster pace. Other models work out often enough to make up for all of the junk food they are eating. No matter what her secret may be, Bella claims she eats grilled cheese sandwiches and French fries every single day.

Do male models shave their legs? ›

Their shaved legs also complement the current trend for ripped jeans. But this style has actually been around for longer — male models have been hairless on the catwalk for decades.

What body fat do male models have? ›

General body fat percentage requirements

Generally speaking, male models are expected to have a body fat percentage no higher than 15 percent.

What age should a male model be? ›

There isn't a real difference between the genders when it come to the best age to start modelling. For both male and female models, sixteen is considered the ideal age.

What do models eat everyday? ›

Models tend to always have healthy snacks with them – fruit, nuts and protein bars. They focus on 80/20 rule: eat healthy most of the time, but have the occasional treat meals. Eating healthy is their lifestyle, not a sporadical thing.

Do models eat bananas? ›

They Satisfy Their Sugar Cravings with Fruits: Banana, berries, mangoes, kiwi, orange have natural sugar along with nutrients, minerals, vitamins, and weight-loss boosting fiber content and that's where these stunning models get their sugar hit from.

What do models do everyday? ›

Many models claim to start their day with exercise or some form of meditation. Yoga is a popular workout as it combines both physical and mental exercises. Models love a range of exercises and each chooses an exercise that works for their individual body type. Many choose to work with a personal trainer.

How skinny is too skinny for a model? ›

In one study, 81 percent of the models surveyed reported a body mass index of less than 18.5, which is considered underweight by the World Health Organization. Thin does not necessarily mean healthy nor does it define what beauty should look like.”

What is too thin to model? ›

“Too thin” under the law is a BMI (ratio of weight to height) under 18.5. The law also says that if a model looks underweight, she can't be used either. And if any graphic manipulation was done in a photo to create a thinner illusion, it must be clearly stated.

What are the physical requirements for a male model? ›

As a general guideline, men should be between 6′ and 6'2″ tall and wear a size 40R-42L jacket. They should be lean and fit. The typical weight is between 140-165 pounds. Large muscles look great and work well in fitness modeling, but they are not appropriate for fashion as they tend to alter the shape of the clothing.

How hard is it to be a male model? ›

Becoming a male model can be difficult, as it has many different requirements, competition, and difficulty entering the industry. Male models also tend to work long hours and work in an environment with many vices, which can be difficult for many people. There are many requirements for becoming a male model.

What weight size is considered skinny? ›

What exactly counts as being "skinny?" Some healthcare experts believe a BMI in the 15-18 range to be clinically underweight. This seems to fall pretty close to what many everyday people consider to be "skinny" with a BMI of 18 or lower frequently listed as the indicator of someone considered to be slim.

What is the weight limit for modeling? ›

Their weight should typically be between 161 and 205 pounds, with a chest size of 41” to 45”.

How do models have such thin thighs? ›

A lot of Victoria's Secret models are ectomorphs. These girls usually have a lower body fat percentage without needing to exercise or diet. And they usually find it difficult to gain weight. But they also find it hard to build muscle, which means it's harder for them to get that nice toned look.

Is it attractive to be thin? ›

Men and women both find thinness in females attractive because they equate it with youth, fertility and a lower risk of diseases, a new study has found.

How do models look so lean? ›

Including Lean Protein Diet: All models incorporate protein in their diet plans, but they mostly include lean proteins in their meals. If you go through Instagram handles of famous models like Gigi Hadid, Bella Hadid or Kendall Jenner, you will find them having plate full of eggs, salmon, avocado, steak, chicken, etc.

Do skinny models sell more? ›

Advertisers have long argued that so-called aspirational slim girls sell more products than their curvier counterparts, but a new study has revealed that in actual fact they do the opposite.

Do male models have to work out? ›

Male models should maintain good body shape to compete at the top levels. Getting too big or bulky will edge you out among the top models. Thus, it'll be good to incorporate working out to maintain a good physique. Working out with heavy weights and a lower repetition range can help you get a proper body look.

What makes a male model attractive? ›

For male models, a lot of emphasis is placed on physical changeability, as makeup is not as commonly used with men. This is why a man's facial features are often critical: having high cheekbones and distinctive facial features is key. Your physique should be athletic, but slim, and the minimum height is often 1.80 m.

What is the best age for male models? ›

For both male and female models, sixteen is considered the ideal age. This being said, female models may find themselves more popular than their male counterparts at a younger age. This is because male models are considered to get better with age, and have more success well into their thirties and even forties.

How tall should a male model be? ›

While there is a petite model category in many agencies, high-fashion demands that male models meet a specific measurement. Generally, male models in high fashion must be between 5'11” and 6'3″. Anyone above or below that may struggle to find work as a runway model.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Clemencia Bogisich Ret

Last Updated:

Views: 6509

Rating: 5 / 5 (80 voted)

Reviews: 95% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Clemencia Bogisich Ret

Birthday: 2001-07-17

Address: Suite 794 53887 Geri Spring, West Cristentown, KY 54855

Phone: +5934435460663

Job: Central Hospitality Director

Hobby: Yoga, Electronics, Rafting, Lockpicking, Inline skating, Puzzles, scrapbook

Introduction: My name is Clemencia Bogisich Ret, I am a super, outstanding, graceful, friendly, vast, comfortable, agreeable person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.