Are you a Commercial or Fashion Model?

So, you'd like to be a model?

   

Well, one of the basic things you should know is what type of model are you: a commercial or fashion model?

There are a lot of people who have great model potential but sadly, some of them don't realize this potential because there's not a lot of information about modeling. When I scout a random stranger in the street to be a model, most of them would say that they are not model material mainly because their perception of a model is that they should be tall and skinny. Guess what? Not all models are tall and skinny!

Read on about the differences of fashion and commercial models after the jump...

Disclaimer: This blog is written in the Philippines so it may or may not be applicable to other countries

COMMERCIAL MODELS

Anyone can be a commercial model. They are those you see mainly in tv commercials and print ads. The basic characteristics of a commercial model are clear skin and perfect teeth (usually no braces). Height is not a requirement in commercials. In times when supports are needed for commercials with celebrities, models are required to match the celeb's height (hint: most celebrities are not too tall).

   

Age is not an issue as well with commercial models. As long as you look the part, you can try to audition for it. Example: Tom is 25 years old but he looks young so he can pass as 22-23 years old role.

The roles needed in commercials are pretty complex and sometimes they are looking for real people instead of actual models. It is quite essential for commercial models to be able to act though.

FASHION MODELS

Fashion models are those you see in the runway, fashion campaigns, catalogs, and editorial magazines. They are tall, skinny and usually looks fierce.

   

Height requirements for fashion models (in Manila):

Male models - 5'10ft and up

Female models - 5'6ft and up (without shoes/heels)

Generally speaking, the above height requirements are the basis of runway models in Manila but sometimes fashion castings may require differently.

Age doesn't seem to be an issue as well for fashion models in Manila but typically ranges from 15-30 years old. Clear skin and proportional body are necessary as well.

As long as you can walk and pose, you can be a fashion model. No need to talk and act like commercial models.

THE COMMERCIAL & FASHION MODEL HYBRID

These are the lucky ones. They can either be a fashion or commercial model.

   

I know, it's unfair. These people are blessed with the height and beautiful faces. They basically get all the jobs.

Well now that you already have an idea of which type of model you are gonna be, I'm pretty sure that you will have less confusion of which jobs will be suitable to you.

Good luck!