Exploring 11 Opportunities Beyond High Fashion in the Modelling Industry

The modelling world is much more varied than the elite runway shows often highlighted in the media. As the industry continues to embrace diversity, countless new career paths have evolved, allowing aspiring models of all shapes and sizes to explore unique opportunities. If you are interested to find out more, this blog post will explore the various modelling categories that might be your entry to this vibrant industry.

Fashion models walk the runway, promoting high-end designer clothes. They are also hired to do editorial work. In the fashion industry, editorials are pictures taken by photographers of fashion models wearing designer clothes. These photos are seen in magazines such as Vanity Fair, Elle, and Vogue.

Editorial Modelling

Editorial modelling is primarily focused on high fashion magazines and artistic imagery. This category encourages models to explore experimental styles and bold fashions. Here, models are tasked with expressing diverse emotions and themes through clothing, creating visual stories with each photograph.

Due to its competitive nature, editorial modelling attracts those who thrive in creative settings where innovation and uniqueness are celebrated.

Child Modelling

For kids, modelling offers a world of possibility. Infants can start as young as a few days old in some places, with plenty of opportunities awaiting them. From toy campaigns to clothing advertisements, the demand for child models continues to rise.

Parents often play a pivotal role in this journey. It's vital for parents to ensure their child feels comfortable in front of the camera while maintaining a healthy balance between work and fun.

Commercial Modelling

Commercial modelling is a diverse area that includes catalog, fitness, and editorial work. Unlike high-fashion modelling, it emphasizes relatability and approachability rather than a specific beauty standard. Regardless of age or body type, commercial models represent "real" people, making them perfect for lifestyle advertisements.

From fashion catalog to health brochures, the range of jobs is immense. Research indicates that many successful commercial models have acting experience, aiding them in expressing emotions and narratives effectively during shoots, often leading to higher booking rates.

Alternative Modelling

Alternative modelling is a branch of the modelling industry that features models who do not conform to mainstream ideals of beauty. Alternative models are often niche-specific, with a personal style that represents subcultures like goth, steampunk, and fetishism.

An alternative model may, for example, be tattooed, pierced, or have other body modifications, have distinctively subcultural hair such as being shaved, dyed a distinctively unnatural colour, or styled into a mohawk or dreadlocks. Alternative modelling can be clothed or unclothed.

Plus-Size Modelling

Plus-size modelling has seen notable growth in recent years, driven by a more significant demand for body diversity in advertisements. This category includes models in sizes above the traditional range, bringing attention to beauty in all forms. Roughly 67% of women in the United States wear sizes 14 and up, creating a significant market for plus-size models.

Brands are recognizing this trend, featuring more plus-size models in their campaigns, fostering a positive message about body image. This evolving perspective is incredibly empowering, as it encourages models to celebrate their shapes and styles while resonating with millions.

Petite Models

Petite models are models that are under the typical height requirements that are expected of fashion models. Petite models typically work more often in commercial and print modelling (rather than runway modelling).

The height of models is typically 5 feet 9 inches (1.75 m) and above for women, and 6 feet 1 inch (1.85 m) and above for men.[citation needed] Models who are shorter than these heights usually fall under the category of petite or commercial models.

Freelance Modelling

Most models do not model full-time; they have other sources of income and sometimes obtain work in their field. While many freelancers secure jobs on their own, some are represented by agencies.

As a freelance model, it is important to market yourself to find go-sees (modelling auditions) and opportunities. A strong portfolio is vital for freelance models. Understanding the typical rates in your area is important for effective negotiation. Sometimes, being a "freelance model" involves working with multiple agents without being signed to just one agency. 

Lingerie & Swimwear Modelling

Swimsuit and lingerie models tend to be less thin compared to fashion models. They also secure jobs for various related items, such as undergarments, pyjamas, workout clothing, and other products that require a well-toned physique. 

Mature Modelling

Mature models are also referred to as commercial models. There are numerous opportunities for models aged 40 and above. This market has expanded consistently in recent years, as people tend to live longer and have the financial means to buy products. 

Fitness Modelling

Fitness modelling is an exciting niche that highlights health and wellness. Models with toned physiques often represent products like athletic wear, supplements, or gym equipment. They are frequently photographed engaging in activities like yoga, running, or weightlifting.

This kind of modelling aligns well with individuals passionate about fitness, as they naturally embody the healthy lifestyle that many brands want to promote. Fitness modelling is particularly appealing for those looking to combine personal interests with professional prospects.

Body-Part Modelling

Body-part modelling is a fascinating niche where models highlight specific features, such as hands, feet, and lips. For example, hand models with long, elegant fingers are frequently sought after for showcasing beauty products like nail polish or lotions. On the other hand, smaller hands can be perfect for promoting children's toys, while rugged hands might appeal to companies selling tools or outdoor gear.

Embracing New Paths in the Modelling Industry

The modelling industry is filled with diverse opportunities that go far beyond traditional fashion and runway work. From body-part and commercial modelling to child and fitness modelling, there's a niche for everyone. The increasing demand for diverse representations highlights the industry's commitment to individuality, welcoming models of all shapes and sizes to forge their own paths.

Now that you’ve learned about different modelling categories, think about which one aligns best with your interests and aspirations. Whether your passion lies in the vibrancy of fashion, the authenticity of commercial work, or the excitement of fitness modelling, countless opportunities await you.

Are you ready to embrace your journey in the modelling world?