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Blog #4: Runway Models

graceww37
Feb 6, 2017
3 min read

A runway model refers to a person who walks down the runway, or catwalk (a narrow and flat platform) and poses to demonstrate the clothing and accessories to a group of audience. Many might believe that models are only for designer brands like Burberry and Givenchy but there are also so many other types of modeling like for commercial, home interior, or just simply clothes for magazines.

Women

Fashion models have a strict requirement for women who wishes to pursue runway modeling. Specifically for editorials, high end designers, or fashion/runway campaigns. From ages 16-21, who is at least 5'9" - 6', with a 32" - 36" bust, 22" - 26" waist, and 33" - 35" hips.

Men

There are also requirements for men but not as strict as women. Height is between 5'11" - 6'2" and should be able to fit into a 40" - 42" regular jacket. No specific measurements but should be fit and lean without too much muscle.

Fashion (Editorial) Models

The type of models you would see in Vogue and Elle fashion magazines who work for top fashion designers such as Marc Jacobs, Gucci, Prada, and Giorgio Armani.

Runway/Catwalk Models

Height of 5'9" - 5'11" would be perfect with precise measurements so they are able to fit into the designers clothes that they will be showing their clients. For these models, the designers hire models to fit the clothes they made, they don't make the clothes to fit the model.

Commercial models

These models can be any age, height, and size. Anything that isn't associated with high-fashion such as ads for products (food products, tech devices, housewares etc).

Plus Size models

In the real world size 12 may not be considered plus size, but in the modeling industry it can be. There are no specific measurements but size 12 and up is considered plus size.

Petite models

With plus size models comes petite models. They are generally 5'7" or under. They often do swimsuit, lingerie, or parts modeling. They tend to have smaller hands and shoes which means they are fit for shoe and glove models.

Child models

The age is usually 12 and under with no specific measurements but instead having lots of personality and who are able to work well with strangers and on set.

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Fitness models

Models who are very athletic, toned, and fit. Many fitness models started as athletes who have added fitness modeling into their resumes. They are often commercial models as well in addition to working for fitness/athletic wear companies.

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Promotional models

These models often have jobs that promotes the product at shows, conventions, and live events. They must be friendly and outgoing, also being able to communicate well with the clients about the product they are promoting.

Progress: After seeing so many outfits from different countries, it's really interesting to see the different styles that are the norm nowadays. There is also many social standards that can make a person feel neglected from society. But there are many different opportunities available for those with different specialties. Everyone can be a model no matter what society tells them. After categorizing the different modeling types, it can definitely help a person know more about the modeling industry and help them find what they really want to do if they don't make it to the high standard modeling industries.

Reflection: My first blog of 2nd quarter is about modeling and the different types of modelings. There are a lot more then the ones I've listed but these are the main types of modeling that most people do if not walking the runway. I think even if a person can't make it to the runways on a Fashion Week, they should keep doing their thing and live their dreams in a different way that suits them. Everyone is different but unique in their own way and if one wants to pursue a modeling career, there will be opportunities for them out there as long as they are willing to find it and not hide from it.