The modelling industry is an ever-evolving landscape that has captivated people for decades. It goes beyond glamour and fashion; it’s an industry offering opportunities in various categories, each with its own unique style, purpose, and audience. Whether you’re an aspiring model, photographer, or simply curious about the different types of modelling, it’s important to understand the diverse roles models play in different sectors.
From high-end fashion runways to commercial campaigns, modelling offers many exciting career paths. In this blog post, we’ll explore the main categories of modelling, what each entails, and how you can get started in these diverse avenues.
Fashion Modelling
Fashion modelling is perhaps the most well-known category in the industry. This is the world of haute couture, glamorous runway shows, and top designer campaigns. Fashion models are often seen gracing the pages of high-fashion magazines like Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar, or strutting down the runways of New York, Paris, and Milan.
Fashion models typically work with designers to showcase clothing collections during fashion weeks or in editorial shoots. This type of modelling is highly competitive, with strict requirements regarding height, body proportions, and specific looks. The key subcategories of fashion modelling include:
Runway Modelling: Models walk the runway in designers' latest collections. Runway models must have the right height, an impeccable walk, and a strong presence.
Editorial Modelling: This involves working for high-fashion magazines in creative and artistic shoots that tell a story, often to promote new trends or collections.
Fit Modelling: Fit models work directly with fashion designers to ensure their clothes are the right size and fit well. Although these models don’t appear in front of the camera, they play a crucial role in shaping the final products.
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Commercial Modelling
Commercial modelling is far more inclusive and accessible than fashion modelling, offering opportunities to a wider range of individuals. Commercial models are employed for advertisements and campaigns promoting everyday products and services. This type of modelling can range from promoting household products to participating in ads for cars, tech, or healthcare products.
What sets commercial modelling apart is that there are no strict height or size requirements, making it a more welcoming space for aspiring models of all ages, shapes, and appearances. Some of the key areas within commercial modelling include:
Print Ads: Models are featured in magazines, newspapers, and online campaigns.
TV Commercials: Commercial models appear in TV ads and promotional videos for various products and services.
Lifestyle Modelling: This involves showcasing products or services in everyday settings, such as portraying a family enjoying a meal or someone using a tech gadget.
Commercial modelling allows brands to connect with their target audience more realistically, making it a crucial part of the marketing industry.
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Glamour Modelling
Glamour modelling focuses on showcasing the model's physical appearance, often in more provocative or sensual settings. Unlike fashion or commercial modelling, which focuses more on the product, glamour modelling is about creating a striking and visually appealing image of the model themselves.
Glamour models are often seen in magazines, calendars, music videos, and online platforms. This type of modelling requires confidence and a strong camera presence. While it offers great exposure, glamour modelling is highly competitive, and models need to carefully navigate the industry to ensure they are represented in a positive and professional light.
Fitness Modelling
As the fitness and wellness industry continues to boom, fitness modelling has become a prominent niche. Fitness models are typically used in advertisements and campaigns related to sports apparel, health products, gym equipment, and lifestyle brands.
Fitness models are expected to have a toned, muscular physique and be able to demonstrate strength and agility. Fitness magazines, sports campaigns, and social media platforms like Instagram offer a wide range of opportunities for aspiring fitness models to showcase their dedication to health and wellness.
This category of modelling is particularly appealing to athletes and individuals with a passion for fitness, as it allows them to combine their love for health with the world of modelling.
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Plus-Size Modelling
Plus-size modelling has gained significant traction in recent years, as the fashion and commercial industries continue to embrace diversity and body positivity. Plus-size models work in both fashion and commercial modelling, representing clothing brands that cater to a larger range of body types.
Plus-size models have become increasingly visible on the runways and in fashion editorials, breaking down barriers and redefining beauty standards. This category allows individuals of all shapes and sizes to find success in an industry that was once highly exclusive.
As body positivity continues to gain momentum, the demand for plus-size models is expected to rise, making this an exciting time for aspiring models in this category.
Child and Teen Modelling
Child and teen modelling is a separate category that caters to the advertising and fashion needs of younger demographics. Brands that produce children's clothing, toys, and other family-related products frequently use child models to represent their products.
Teen models, on the other hand, are often used in campaigns targeted at younger audiences, such as fashion lines for teens or entertainment brands. Child and teen modelling can be highly competitive and requires working with reputable agencies to ensure the safety and well-being of young models.
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Alternative Modelling
Alternative modelling is a space for those who don’t fit the traditional mould of the fashion industry. It celebrates unique and unconventional looks, often incorporating tattoos, piercings, and edgy styles. Alternative models are often featured in niche magazines, music videos, and brands that appeal to a subculture or a specific audience.
This type of modelling breaks away from mainstream beauty standards and offers an exciting avenue for individuals looking to express their individuality through modelling.
Are you ready to explore your potential in the exciting world of modelling? Model Up connects talented individuals with top brands and opportunities. Join us today to take the first step towards your modelling career and make your mark!