The world of modeling has always been a fascinating and glamorous one, often depicted through the lenses of high fashion magazines, runways, and advertising campaigns. But behind the glitz and glamour lies a complex industry that has evolved considerably over the years, shaping and reflecting societal beauty standards, culture, and trends. From runway models strutting down Fashion Week catwalks to commercial models featured in TV commercials or product ads, models play an integral role in how we perceive fashion, beauty, and even identity.
In this post, we will explore what it means to be a model, the various types of modeling, the impact models have on culture, and how the modeling industry has evolved over the years.
What Is Modeling?
At its core, modeling is the art of representing or showcasing products, fashion, or services to an audience through one’s physical appearance and expressions. A model’s job is to bring an element of beauty, style, or allure to the image or concept being portrayed. While many people may associate the term “model” with runway shows or magazine spreads, the modeling industry is vast and includes a variety of subcategories, each requiring different skills and attributes.
Models can be found in everything from high fashion to commercial advertising, fitness modeling to plus-size modeling, and catwalks to print ads. The modeling profession is one of the few that relies so heavily on appearance, but it is also an art form that combines expression, posture, and creativity.
Types of Models: Different Roles in the Industry
The modeling industry is as diverse as it is dynamic. There are numerous types of modeling, each catering to different markets and aesthetics. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most prominent categories:
1. Fashion Models (High Fashion)
Fashion models, often called high-fashion models, are the epitome of the industry. These models typically work for top designers, photographers, and fashion houses, often walking in prestigious runway shows or appearing in high-fashion editorials in magazines like Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar. Fashion models are known for their tall stature, unique features, and ability to convey the designer’s vision through their expressions and posture.
Runway models, also referred to as catwalk models, are a subset of fashion models who specifically walk in fashion shows during events like Fashion Weeks in New York, Paris, Milan, and London. These models must showcase clothing in a way that highlights the designer’s work, and their walk and presentation are key to a successful show.
2. Commercial Models
While high-fashion models tend to embody a more avant-garde or exclusive aesthetic, commercial models represent a broader, more inclusive range of people. Commercial modeling is the category that encompasses all advertising—print ads, TV commercials, product placements, and online campaigns. These models are hired to appeal to the general consumer and must have a versatile look that resonates with a wide audience.
Commercial models can be found advertising everything from beauty products and household items to cars and food. While some commercial models still adhere to certain beauty standards, there has been a significant shift toward embracing a more diverse representation of beauty in recent years. Diversity in commercials, showcasing models of different ages, ethnicities, body types, and abilities, has become increasingly important.
3. Plus-Size Models
Plus-size modeling is a rapidly growing sector of the fashion industry. Historically, the modeling world has been criticized for its lack of body diversity and its promotion of unrealistic beauty standards. However, the rise of plus-size models has helped to shift those standards. Plus-size models represent larger body types and showcase fashion for those who don’t conform to the traditional “sample size” standards.
Models such as Ashley Graham, Tess Holliday, and Paloma Elsesser have led the charge in reshaping the industry’s definition of beauty. Their success has not only expanded the representation of body types in fashion but also sent a message about body positivity and inclusivity.
4. Fitness Models
Fitness models have gained prominence in recent years, particularly in the world of health, wellness, and activewear. These models emphasize strength, athleticism, and a healthy lifestyle, often appearing in campaigns for fitness brands, supplement advertisements, and activewear companies like Nike, Adidas, and Lululemon.
Fitness models are typically in peak physical condition, with a focus on muscle tone, body composition, and overall wellness. However, the term “fitness model” can encompass a wide range of body types, as fitness modeling is not just about size but about how the model embodies health and strength.
5. Editorial Models
Editorial models are the faces that appear in magazines and fashion editorials. These models work closely with photographers, stylists, and creative directors to produce visually captivating spreads. Editorial work is often seen as more artistic, with models being asked to convey emotion or tell a story through their poses and expressions.
Editorial models are not just defined by their looks—they often have a certain artistic flair and expressive ability that makes them stand out. These models are often featured in high-profile magazines, but they may also work with up-and-coming designers for more conceptual and avant-garde shoots.
6. Parts Models
A parts model is someone who specializes in modeling specific body parts, such as hands, feet, legs, or even lips. These models are usually in high demand for advertisements that focus on specific features. For instance, a jewelry brand may hire a hand model to showcase their latest collection, or a cosmetic company may require a foot model for a pedicure campaign.
While this niche may seem unusual, it is a crucial part of the industry, especially for companies selling products that emphasize beauty and detail.
The Evolution of the Modeling Industry
The modeling industry has come a long way since its early days in the 20th century. The first recognized model was Lisa Fonssagrives, a Swedish model who became an icon in the 1940s and 1950s. As modeling became more mainstream, models like Twiggy, Cindy Crawford, and Naomi Campbell became global stars, helping to shape the future of the industry.
In the past, models were expected to adhere to very specific beauty standards, including being tall, thin, and young. However, the industry has gradually shifted toward greater inclusivity, embracing models of various ethnicities, body types, ages, and genders. This shift has been part of a broader societal movement toward diversity, body positivity, and representation.
Models as Influencers and Entrepreneurs
In the 21st century, many models have expanded their careers beyond traditional modeling. With the rise of social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, models have been able to connect directly with their audiences, build personal brands, and even launch businesses.
Top models like Kendall Jenner, Gigi Hadid, and Karlie Kloss have leveraged their social media influence to create successful ventures, from fashion collaborations to beauty lines. These “social media models” have blurred the lines between traditional modeling and digital entrepreneurship, turning their personal brands into global empires.
In addition to creating product lines, models often act as ambassadors for causes close to their hearts, ranging from environmental sustainability to mental health awareness. As influencers, models now have the power to engage with their audiences on a more personal level, opening doors to new opportunities and business ventures.
Challenges in the Modeling Industry
Despite its outward glamor, the modeling industry is not without its challenges. Models face immense pressure to maintain specific beauty standards, often sacrificing their mental and physical health to stay relevant. Eating disorders, mental health struggles, and body dysmorphia are unfortunately common issues faced by many in the industry.
There is also a history of exploitation and unethical practices within the modeling industry. Models, especially younger ones, have sometimes been subjected to unfair contracts, unsafe working conditions, and sexual harassment. The #MeToo movement has been pivotal in bringing attention to these issues, leading to increased efforts to create a safer and more equitable industry for models of all backgrounds.
Conclusion: The Future of Modeling
The future of the modeling industry looks bright, with a continued focus on diversity, inclusivity, and representation. As the industry evolves, we are likely to see even more opportunities for models to cross into other areas like entrepreneurship, acting, and advocacy. Technology, including virtual modeling and AI, may also change how we view and interact with models, offering new avenues for expression and engagement.
Ultimately, modeling is not just about looks; it is about the ability to inspire, convey emotion, and represent culture. As the fashion world continues to evolve, the role of the model will remain an essential part of how we communicate beauty, creativity, and identity. Whether on the runway, in print ads, or as influencers, models continue to shape and reflect our changing world.