So you don’t look like Kim Kardashian, but do you really need to to be a successful model? According to today’s beauty standards, probably — at least if you model through an agency.
The good news is that agencies aren’t a necessity and you don’t have to meet the media’s version of beauty to be a successful model. Granted, you might not as easily find yourself on the cover of your favorite fashion magazine or as the new face for a fashion line — but then again, when does “easy” get you anywhere worth being?
We have seen beauty standards change before our eyes over the past several decades, from when being full like Marilyn Monroe was in style to as skinny as Twiggy — and now we see plus size and normal bodies finally (and rightfully) being promoted as beautiful too. There’s no denying that the modeling industry is changing with fashion lines now looking to hire models of a variety of shapes and sizes.
That said, the industry still has a long way to go before we see a totally normalized standard of “beauty.” Beauty is real people with acne, coffee-stained teeth, and stretch marks. Beauty shouldn’t be airbrushing, plastic surgery and dangerous cosmetic procedures.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, you don’t have to be “pretty” to be a model. Even if an agency won’t sign you because you’re too short, not skinny enough, or just not their type, well — you can do it yourself.
There are so many types of models out there — few of which actually need an agency. Lifestyle and promotional models are two great examples, as well as body part models (think about the hair and nail posters at a salon).
There’s nothing stopping you from being a freelancer, and you still have the ability to apply for features in magazines and to work with brands directly to model their products. Building your portfolio up is key.
If you want to know more, check out my other articles about how to start your journey as a freelance model!
