Becoming a Male Model

Modelling is a highly sought-after career, particularly for young people. That means it’s also very competitive, and you need to meet certain requirements before being considered. 

Read on to find out more about becoming a male model. 

Types of Male Models

First, it helps to understand the different types of male models in the fashion industry. These can be roughly broken down into the following:

– High fashion modelling. High fashion models must meet the most strict requirements. It’s the most difficult style of modelling to get into and is fiercely competitive. High fashion models walk runways and work for the most premium brands. They will also feature in magazine editorials for publications like Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar. 

– Catalogue/Commercial modelling. Catalogue modelling is generally more relaxed than high fashion, though certain requirements still need to be met. Catalogue models tend to work for high street brands.

– Plus-size modelling. This growing niche of modelling caters to curvier clientele. The demand for plus-size male models is growing due to the success of the plus-size women’s industry. Many modelling agencies now have a plus-size department. 

– Petite modelling. This niche of modelling requires shorter models to work for brands and products targeted at shorter men. 

– Fitness modelling. This popular niche requires models with a fit, athletic physique. 

– Alternative modelling. Alternative models are those who have tattoos, piercings, body modifications, or unusual hairstyles. 

Height

Height is one of the most important physical attributes for both male and female models to meet. Runway model’s need to be around 5’11” and 6’3″. Anyone below this height will struggle to find work in high fashion. 

While commercial and other forms of modelling are slightly more relaxed, they still tend to favour male models who are over 5’11”. However, if you have the right look and personality, height is more often overlooked. 

Measurements

Male models must meet certain measurements to be considered as a model. Contrary to belief, your weight will not be taken into account; brands and agencies are only concerned with how well you will fit the clothing, and how good you will look on camera or on the runway.

Typically, for high fashion a male model’s waist needs to be between 29-32 inches. Their chest needs to be around 39-40 inches, and they must fit into a 40r jacket. 

Again, things are slightly more relaxed for commercial models. Requirements differ from agency to agency. They will also change depending on which niche you want to work in.

General Looks

The overall way you look is more important than specificities most of the time. There is no “set standard” for how a male model should look, as long as the overall look is attractive. What one agency loves, another may not – that’s why it’s important to apply to more than one agency. 

Generally, here’s what agencies and brands will be looking for:

– An attractive smile (clean, white teeth)

– Bright eyes (no undereye circles)

– Clear skin

– Good beauty maintenance. That means brows, nails, feet etc. should all be looked after. 

Personality

Personality is just as important as looks. Models need a “stage presence” that draws the eye and causes people to pay attention to them. Modelling is much more than looking good in front of the camera; it’s about telling a story, and being able to follow directions. 

Agencies and brands will want to work with someone who listens, who works hard and who remains positive even under stress. 

All models must show up on time to jobs and be polite to everyone they work with. The modelling industry remembers people who are easy and nice to work with. 

Famous Male Models:

– David Gandy

– Sean O’Pry

– Tyson Beckford

– Francisco Lachowski

– Lucky Blue Smith

– Luka Sabbat

– Oliver Cheshire

– Jon Kortajarena

– Johannes Huebi

– Evandro Soldati

Male Model Grooming 101

Male models need to look after themselves just as much as female models. You should have a good skincare routine as well as a healthy diet and exercise routine to keep you in shape year-round. 

You need to pay attention to your teeth, nails, hair and skin:

Skincare

You need a good skincare routine to help keep the skin looking healthy and young for as long as possible. Male models need to wear makeup during shoots, so you’ll need a good cleansing routine to ensure all makeup is removed. Sunscreen should also be worn each day to protect the skin from premature ageing; this too needs to be cleansed off properly at the end of the day to prevent clogged pores and blemishes. The best way to clean the skin is to cleanse twice in the evening before bed. 

You need a good moisturiser too to hydrate the skin and keep it healthy and plump. 

If you struggle with acne, a good skincare routine will help. If your acne is chronic, visit the doctor, who should be able to refer you to a dermatologist. 

Serums are a good addition to a skincare routine. Serums target specific skin issues – ageing, acne, dark spots etc. Choose one that caters to your specific needs. 

Manis and Pedis

We don’t mean nail polish and extensions. Men should also take care of the nails on their hands and feet. Dead skin should be sloughed off and skin should be moisturised. Nails need to be trimmed and buffed so they are even and shiny. No dirt should be under the nails. You should push your cuticles back and pop some oil onto them to encourage healthy nail growth. You don’t need to visit a professional each time, but it might be worth visiting a proper manicurist at least initially so you can learn the tricks of the trade and emulate them at home. 

Hair

Hair is an accessory – you need to look after it. hair needs to be cleaned and hydrated – you should talk to your hairdresser about the best products for your hair type, as well as any leave-in products you can use to protect, nourish and improve your hair health. 

You should be getting a haircut at least once every 6 weeks to get rid of split ends and keep it at the proper length. If your hair is dyed or bleached, make sure you keep your roots touched up. 

How to Get Modelling Experience

Everyone has to start somewhere. Some models come onto the scene with no modelling experience behind them. Others volunteer and work for free to gain experience to help them into the industry. 

If you are a complete novice, it might be worth hiring a professional photographer to have a photo shoot with. This will help you practice in a professional shoot setting, as well as give you the opportunity to purchase your best photos. These photos can then be used in your modelling portfolio (aka your resume) and on your modelling agency applications. 

How to Get Started

If you’ve read the above and think you’d be an excellent male model, it’s time to get your first steps! 

Register with us today and we can help evaluate whether you’d be a good fit for the modelling industry. If we think you’ve got what it takes, we’ll provide you with valuable ongoing industry advice to help you get signed to your first agency. 

We will also invite you to a professional photoshoot, where you can try your hand at modelling on a real set. We’ll help you choose your best photos and you can purchase your favourites – ideal for your portfolio, z-cards and agency applications. 

Read to get started? Click here to start your new career as a male model!