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What Aspiring Young Models Should Know About Working in the Fashion Industry

By Adam Jacobs

Many people dream about becoming a model, but not all of them are brave enough to make a career out of it. As a career, modeling can be challenging if you don’t know what to expect and are uninformed about how things work in the fashion industry.

Whether you’re an aspiring model or you know someone who wants to become one of the rich and famous trendsetters, it is important that you know that there is more to modeling than meets the eye.

This article serves as a guide for aspiring young models to help them learn the basics of working in the fashion industry.

It’s Not All About How You Look

Contrary to popular belief, a pretty face and a well-proportioned body won’t guarantee your success in the fashion industry. In fact, these aren’t the only things you need to get an agent to represent you and open opportunities for you to have a career as a model.

If you are bent on becoming a model, knowing how to carry yourself in front of the camera and offer your best angles to the lens is a good start. You should also do your homework about the industry to stay informed about the latest trends and how to do things properly to get your very first modeling gig.

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Steps to Becoming a Successful Model

Success in modeling isn’t that far along if you have the right knowledge on how to go about doing it. To help you out, here are five steps you can take to become a successful model and start a career in the fashion industry:

Step #1: Have the Right Reason

What is your reason for wanting to become a model? Your answer to this question is one of the factors that will determine if you’ll do well in the fashion industry.

If you are only in it because you think it’s fun or you have been repeatedly told that you look like a model, then you might want to consider whether becoming a model can be achieved, realistically speaking.

While these may all be valid reasons for wanting to start a career in this industry, the only thing that would help you get a good start is if you truly think that you have what it takes to become a model.

Step #2: Determine What Type of Model You Want to Become (and Are Fit For)

There are several types of modeling you can try in Australia (if you are considering working in this country), each with its own specific requirements.

Runway models, for example, must be tall and have a precise set of measurements to fit in the clothing they will be modeling for designers. Commercial models can be any shape, size, or height, making it the perfect opportunity for aspiring models to begin their journey to success in the industry.

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As for fashion models who pose for high-end magazines covering the niche, having a height of 5’9 to 6’0 and a 33-23-33 figure is an advantage, but is not required. Many agencies look for the perfect fit for the job based on how well they can “sell,” so aspiring models who are curvier, slimmer, taller, or shorter may also have a shot at succeeding in this type of modeling career.

Aside from these three, other types of modeling include “plus-size” modeling, fitness modeling, petite modeling, swimsuit or lingerie modeling, and child and teen modeling. Agencies handling child model casting don’t have a single set of requirements in terms of appearance. However, they may require an amenable personality, which means young aspirants should be able to work well with strangers, other children and teens, and in different settings.

Step #3: Research About Modeling Agencies You Want to Work With

Once you determine which modeling path you wish to take, it is time to look for agencies that can help you achieve your dream. There are many firms that may offer to give you your biggest break in fashion, but not all of them can provide the right kind (and quality) of service you may need.

When doing your homework about the agencies you want to join, you can try seeking answers to the following questions:

  1. Is the modeling agency legitimate? Are their licenses verifiable?
  2. Do they have positive reviews from their models?
  3. Which models did they handle in the past? Were they successful?
  4. What is the process for signing up with them?

You may also check online, particularly if the company has a page for modeling agency questions, if you are still uncertain about whether the agency is the right fit for you.

Step #4: Build an Impressive Portfolio and Solid Online Presence

Your portfolio will serve as your ticket to joining a good modeling agency. It will serve as your resume, so to speak. Because of this, it is important that you invest in having your photos taken by a professional and make sure to have different poses and varying settings and outfits while highlighting your best angle and versatility.

Having a solid online presence, especially on social media, is also a great way to start building your reputation as an aspiring model. Use the photos from your portfolio and add your own daily selfies to build a following. Just remember to take flattering pictures of yourself and do some polishing before you upload.

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Dream Big and Start Applying

Having a successful career in modeling requires guts and the right knowledge. If you (or other people you know) wish to venture into this field, you should study everything you can about working in the fashion industry.

AUTHOR BIO

Adam Jacobs is the Managing Director of Bubblegum Casting, the longest running agency specializing in babies, children and teen talent in Australia. Bubblegum Casting works with some of Australia’s biggest brands, media properties and agencies to secure talented children to work in Television, Film and Modeling roles.

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