While some girls dream of being a model from the first time they pick up a fashion magazine, the reality is that this is an occupation and, like any occupation, there are modeling requirements. Unfortunately, unlike a doctor or even an actor, some of the requirements for being a working, successful cannot be learned, purchased, or faked — though there are companies out there whom would lead unsuspecting aspiring models to believe otherwise. You have to have the right combination of genetics, business-savvy, personality, motivation, and luck to be truly successful.
Modeling requirements are largely driven by the clients who book plus-size models. Putting together a catalog or retail website costs thousands of dollars and there may be millions of dollars of sales at stake if the right model isn’t booked. A model’s job is to sell the merchandise she is modeling therefore if a client believes that their customers are more likely to buy more from models who are 5’10” and a size 14, that’s what they will book. Consequently, an agency signs models they believe clients will book.
Height 5’8″ – 6′
This is probably the most frustrating requirement for most aspiring models to deal with because you can’t change your height. While there are a few working models that fall below 5’8″, the reality is that finding an agency to take a chance on a shorter model is difficult. Even more difficult is finding a client who is willing to book a shorter model.
Size 6 – 16
Yep. You read that correctly. Some clients book size 6, 8, and 10s as their “plus-size” models. While height is the most frustrating requirement, size may be the most controversial. I constantly see discussions regarding a model being too skinny, not plus-size, gaining/losing weight… The reality is that successful plus models, for the most part, are not truly plus-size. They are tall, rather average-size, photogenic women who happen to have the right genes and a good business sense. Like any model, they typically work out, watch what they eat and take good care of themselves. If they don’t, they do not work (unless they are genetically blessed).
Photogenic
Models of all sizes are photogenic whether they are classically beautiful or a little quirky. For whatever reason, they just look amazing on film. Unfortunately, some attractive women don’t necessarily photograph well, so if you have a hard time finding an agency, don’t take this as a commentary on your overall attractiveness. As an agent, I saw plenty of pretty girls who just didn’t photograph the way they looked in person.
So, maybe you are 5’7″ and a size 18, does this mean you shouldn’t give modeling a try? Of course not! There are exceptions to most modeling rules and seeing agencies shouldn’t cost you anything other than time. But, be prepared for honesty (sometimes brutal) and rejection as these are things you will have to learn to deal with if you do become a successful model. Just know that it shouldn’t cost you a dime to find an agency (if they start talking about fees and classes, run!) and you can’t take classes in getting taller or having higher cheekbones.
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Hello,
I’M 6’2″ and a size 16…. right now. Am I too tall to model plus size fashion?
You’d need to connect with a modeling agency that represents and books business for plus size models http://plusmodels.com/category/agency-directory-us/agencies-us-states/. Your height might be a bit much, but then again, you could fill a needed niche. If you put a gun to my head, I’d say no you’re not too tall, but there’s a lot more that goes into the selection process, and most of it regards things you can’t do anything about.
Hey do you guys think i could have a good chance on becoming a plus size model if i’m 5’7 and a size 18?
The only way to know is to submit some photos to a nearby modeling agency that represents plus size girls! at 5’7″ tall, you’re probably tall enough for most agencies’ clients but there’s a lot more to it than just your height.
Thank you Anne! what agency do you most recommend?
Find one near you on this page! http://plusmodels.com/2012/05/model-agency-directory/
How would i get hired as a plus size model and my height is 5’0 and i am 18 years old and my mother is 2 inches taller than me what do i do about that
We’ve recently received many queries about “what do I do to become a plus size model?” Ladies, this page is the place to start.
“What do I have to do to get into the business as a model?” Have you gone to an agency’s open call? Have you mailed or emailed them snapshots? That’s step one. No other steps can be taken unless and until you take that step. You will never get rejected if you don’t contact an agency… but you’ll never be discovered either. http://plusmodels.com/2012/05/model-agency-directory/
“Am I too short/fat/skinny/ethnic/plain/_____?” We at PlusModels are not a modeling agency, and we have no bookings to fill. Agencies near you do http://plusmodels.com/2012/05/model-agency-directory/. And, if you’re not immediately picked up by one agency, that agency doesn’t (necessarily) speak for the entire industry. One agency might cater to clients who want everyday girl looks, another agency on the other street might cater to editorial or artistic/unique model bookings. How will you know? Contact a nearby agency. http://plusmodels.com/2012/05/model-agency-directory/
The important thing to remember here is that agencies don’t make the rules; the agencies’ clients do. Fashion catalogs, magazines, are the drivers of trends, because they respond to their own customer base, the end users/consumers.
And one last thing I’d like to mention: If you’ve exhausted all the options you have… have you thought about working in the industry behind the camera? Make up artists, photographers, hair stylists, agents, … modeling is a huge industry. You can be a part of it in more ways than one! Consider acting, either dramatic or commercials.
We’re here for you! Please post your adventures!
Hey i’m looking for a plus size modeling agency
me to!!!! so if you find one let me know lol good luck
me to!
Ladies, ladies! The PlusModels Agency Directory is up and available this and every hour of the day! Go see!
Hi. I’m Olivia. Ever since I was 13 I’ve been looking into modeling. I’m a pretty curvy girl. I want to model more then anything in the world. The down side is that I’m only about 5′ 3″. Tragic. I am fairly attractive in the face though. I can pose better than I can even walk. When I was younger my mother put me in beauty pageants. I won quite a few of them. More recently though, I did plus size pants modeling for Hot Topic’s online site. So I have somewhat knowledge and experience on modeling. I take many self shots. They help me by showing me what’s unattractive about myself so I can try and change it. I change myself to fit other peoples wants and needs. If that doesn’t sound like something a model would do, then I don’t know what does. The main focus for my look is from my shoulders and up. I’ve heard of face modeling before but I was more interested in showing bigger people that no matter how big you are, you’re beautiful. I’m not small and I’m not the hottest catch up the day but I’ve come to terms with who I am and learned to accept it and move on. In my future I would like to see myself become a successful plus size and/or face model/cosmetologist. If you could ever find the time to reply to me I would GREATLY, beyond expression, appreciate it. I may be short and big but my face doesn’t disappoint. Or at least not from what I’ve heard. My email’s paches629@yahoo.com or you can find me on Facebook. http://www.facebook.com/babyhooha If you can’t, it’s fine. I’ll understand. Thank you for your time. :]