Fashion models

How to be a model in Europe

Mary Smith
By Mary Smith. Updated: January 16, 2017
How to be a model in Europe

Many boys and girls today long to be models. However, starting a career in fashion is difficult and there are many things to consider. At OneHowTo.com we'll tell you about the requirements to be a model in Europe and things you should keep in mind.

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Contents

  1. Types of modelling
  2. Height
  3. Weight
  4. Modelling agencies
  5. Age
  6. What makes a difference

Types of modelling

There are different types of modelling. Next, we describe the most important:

  • Catwalk models who wear clothes in fashion shows.
  • Photography models need to know how to express different feelings and emotions. You don't necessarily have to be connected to the fashion world although the two are often related.
  • Art models who pose for sculptors, painters and other artists.
  • Fitness models that work in advertising for gyms or sports brands and flaunt a well defined body.
  • Body parts models are those that focus on a particular body part. E.g. an eye model for eyeglasses or a hand model for commercials.

Height

The ideal model height is between 1.75 and 1.80 m (5' 7" to 5' 9") for female models and 1.80 to 1.88 m (5' 9" to 6' 2") for male models. Occasionally there is an exception, but the average ideal height is usually between these two.

Weight

As for weight, it's relative because it depends on the body type, but usually women models weigh between 55 kg (8.6 st.) for a woman with a height of 1.70 (5' 6") and 60 kg (9.5 st.) for a woman with a height of 1.80 (5' 9"). But weight isn't as important as the size, since, for example, a tall woman with big breasts will weigh more. The required size usually varies from a 34 (size 6) to a 36 (size 8) in women. On the other hand, the 90-60-90 ratio of ideal measurement for women is preferred, but this again, can vary.

For a man, weight is relative, but modelling agencies usually require a weight of 65 kg (10.3 st.) for men over 1.80 (5' 9"). For the taller models, with a height of 1.88 (6'2"), the ideal weight would be about 73 kg (11.7 st.). Due to controversies concerning weight, many modelling agencies require models to be within a specific BMI.

Plus-size models are also more and more common in fashion magazines, catwalks and other photo shoots. These need a minimum height of 5'8'' to 6' and need a minimum size of 10.

Note that in France, there is a new law that may be passed that states that all Catwalk models should at least have a BMI of 18 (weigh 55 kg with a minimum height of 5'7''). What this reflects is a will in some European countries to stop very thin models from filling the catwalk.

How to be a model in Europe - Weight

Modelling agencies

There are many modelling agencies in Europe. It's important that when you contact agencies, you send them your resume with a photo book, since the first impression is the most important. The Spanish website, entremodelos.com offers a list of modelling agencies with contact information. Some other big model agencies in Europe are Models 1 in the UK, Elite Models in France, or 3mmodels in Italy.

There are specialized agencies that only work with plus sizes, so if you think you have it in you, don't let size hold you back!

It's important that you not be misled and know some basic tips before contacting an agency. You should also be well informed about the company online before contacting them. Reading blogs or forums with other professionals' opinions can be very helpful.

Age

Although, as we have already pointed out everything is relative in the fashion world, agencies often look for a minimum age of models to start their career in fashion. It varies from 16 to 19 years old. Keep in mind that being a model is so short lived, that the younger looking the person, the better.

What makes a difference

Now we're not that bothered about actual measurements, what really makes a model stand out from the rest is his/her character and uniqueness. What makes you different might help you be chosen for a certain brand or campaign. So, whether you're very white skinned, have a distinctive mole on your face or have very thin lips, boost that part of your body which makes you absolutely unmistakable!

How to be a model in Europe - What makes a difference
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Millen Teklay
I won't be come a modal so can you help me please?
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How to be a model in Europe