What Type of Model Are You? Height and Beauty Standards in the Australian Modelling Industry
What is a model?
This might seem like a simple question, but it has a complex answer. A model can be many things: someone who poses for photos or is booked for runway, someone on IG who is the ‘face’ of a beauty brand, or even an actor who books campaigns on the side. There are different types of modelling, and the industry has its own set of height and beauty standards that aspiring models need to know about. In this post, we will explore the different types of modelling and what you need to do to become a successful model in today’s world!
So, what is a model? A model is typically defined as someone who represents brands and connects with consumers via different mediums of advertising, such as, print, billboard, social media platforms or live runway shows. Most models today offer a hybrid creative skillset in order to become a recognised personal brand such as model/influencer, model/actor, model/pageant queen or model/singer. Within the modelling industry, there are different types of modelling, and each one has its own set of requirements. Despite each genre having it’s own requirements, most successful models become skilled in more than one type of modelling.
One of the most common types of modelling is fashion or editorial modelling. Fashion models are typically used to showcase clothing and other fashion items in magazines, runway shows, and advertisements. Generally, to be a successful fashion/editorial and runway model, you need to have interesting features, and be tall with a slim build. Most editorial/fashion models are between five feet eight inches and six feet tall. The reason fashion models are slim is so that the clothes stand out on the runway, rather than the models body. In addition to height, you need to have a lot of confidence, poise and rhythm so you can work the runway like a pro. Runway modelling is a very demanding profession and so you need to be physically fit as you need to be able to walk long distances and stand for long periods of time without getting tired.
If you’re not quite tall enough to be a fashion model, don’t worry! There are other types of modelling that might be a better fit for you. For example, commercial modelling is a type of modelling that focuses on promoting products or services and is a very popular career path for Australian models. Commercial models typically appear in television commercials, print ads, and online advertisements. To be a successful commercial model, you need to have a relatable or friendly look that the masses can connect with.
Beauty models are models who are chosen for close-up portrait photos for hair, makeup and skincare campaigns. To be a beauty model, you need to have physical attributes that are traditionally considered to be attractive or interesting. Most of the time, this includes symmetrical features, clear skin, bright eyes and lustrous hair. There are no height restrictions for a beauty model.
Petite modelling is another type of modelling that is open to people of all heights. Petite models typically showcase clothing and other products that are designed for people who are shorter in stature.
Swimwear models are generally very healthy looking and more curvaceous and toned than their fashion model counterparts as the swimwear they model is enhanced by their body movements and shape.
Size diverse models or ‘curve’ models, are making waves in the commercial modelling industry in Australia. These size-diverse women are shattering stereotypes and proving that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes.
A common misconception is that curve models don’t work as much as straight-size models. But that’s not true. To the contrary, curve models are in high demand and Australia is leading the way as more and more local brands are choosing to use size diverse models in their advertising, runway and marketing campaigns. Curve models come in all shapes and are generally a size 10-12AU+ with a relatable, friendly or interesting look.
Even though all of the above types of modelling are very different, they still have some qualities in common. To be any type of model, you need a strong work ethic: Making it as a model takes a lot of hard work and dedication. You’ll need to be willing to put in the long hours and make sacrifices to make your dreams a reality. In addition, models need to be able to work well with other people as models often have to work with other models, photographers, stylists, and makeup artists. In addition to these attributes, you also need to be able to take direction well and work well under pressure. And finally, you need to have a positive attitude! Modelling can be very stressful, and you need to be able to stay calm and focused whilst working.
Now that you know a little bit more about the modelling industry, it’s time to decide what type of model you want to be. Are you interested in fashion modelling? Or are you better suited for commercial or curve modelling? No matter what type of model you want to be, remember that all models need to start somewhere. So, don’t be discouraged if you don’t fit the “perfect” mould. Just keep working hard and you’ll eventually find your niche within the industry!
Do you think you have what it takes to become a model? If so, what type of model you want to be? If you’re still unsure after reading this article, book in with our Founder and Principal Jade Taylor for a FREE Top Model Assessment to find out how to maximise your unique features within the modelling industry.