Age Is Just a Number: Why We Need More Mature Models in Fashion - The Photo Studio (2024)

Even though aging is something that happens to us all, ageism is everywhere. Women are bombarded with messages telling us not to age, that youth is the hallmark of beauty and worth in today’s society. From fashion to the workplace, older women are overlooked, underestimated and underrepresented. But people are fighting back. Mature modelling is on the rise and the fashion world is finally realising that you can never be too old to become a model.

Written by Elizabeth Harrington

Feature image source: yazemeenah.com

The term “anti-aging” needs to go

Age Is Just a Number: Why We Need More Mature Models in Fashion - The Photo Studio (1)

Beauty advertisem*nts boast products that are “anti-aging” and can “reverse the signs of aging”. The language we use to describe aging is as if it’s something to be feared, to be fought, to be conquered. The older a woman gets, the more she’s expected to cling to her youth. This isn’t the case with men. There’s a double standard when it comes to aging. Arecent study found that women’s sexual desirability peaks at only 18 years of age, while men’s doesn’t peak until they are 50. When a woman’s attractiveness is tied up to her age, it’s no surprise women will do anything to fight it. It’s a terrifying thought that no matter what age, women feel pressured by unfair beauty standards.

It’s time we open a dialogue to talk about aging. Everybody ages. Injections and anti-aging creams are a band-aid, not a cure. They’re unable to stop what’s happening inside each and every one of us. While there is nothing wrong with taking care of your skin, many women are driven to extreme lengths for fear of losing their youth and beauty. If aging is an unavoidable natural process, why is it still so stigmatised in fashion?

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We need to reconsider what we think is beautiful

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There is a beauty to growing old. Wrinkles tell your story, etched onto your face like art. They tell of your joys and trials. Smile lines and crow’s feet are not something to be self-conscious about—they tell the world you like to laugh. What is more beautiful than that?

How often have you heard someone say “she’s aging gracefully” or “she looks good for her age” or “she’s still got it”? At first glance, these compliments give validation of a woman’s beauty in an image-focused world. But the problem with this language is that it associates beauty with youth, as if youth is something worth praising. We don’t talk to men like this. In fact, men are often seen as growing more attractive as they age. Silver foxes like George Clooney and Pierce Brosnan are seen as being in their prime, but women of the same age are seen as past their prime.

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The fashion industry ignores older women

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In the modelling world, anyone female over 30 is classified as a mature model. For decades, the default fashion model has been young. Models are scouted as teens and traditionally, their success has a time limit. Supermodel Gemma Ward was told her looks were fading at only 20. It seems the moment a model matures in her body and grows into womanhood, she is suddenly less appealing.

This is far from the truth. Older women can be just as desirable as younger women. There are plenty of older women embracing their sexuality, proving that sex appeal transcends age. Just take a look at Carmen Dell’Orefice. At 88 years old, this mature model is the epitome of beauty.

Age Is Just a Number: Why We Need More Mature Models in Fashion - The Photo Studio (6)

IT’S NEVER TOO LATE TO START YOUR MODELLING CAREER

Here at The Photo Studio, we believe in fighting fashion stereotypes. We can help you gain the confidence, knowledge and experience you need to turn the modelling industry upside down! Submit your details below and let your modelling journey begin!

Style and beauty have no age limit

What is it about being older that is less appealing to the fashion world? Older women can feel judged if they are too sexy or playful with their style, so there’s an expectation that they dress in more modest clothing. But in reality, older women are often stylish and impeccably dressed, informed by a profound sense of who they are after years of growing comfortable in their skin. They are role models for young women to look up to—but our media does not portray this.

Older women often feel invisible in the media. They have a tendency to be ignored in beauty campaigns, even when the product being promoted is “anti-aging” and targeted at them. Fashion brands rarely use mature models in advertising, leading older women to feel excluded as consumers, as if they don’t belong and shouldn’t shop there. But as the industry becomes more inclusive, things are finally starting to change.

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Fashion is becoming more diverse

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Diversity is a hot topic in the fashion world. Brands are becoming more inclusive, with models of different races and sizes being represented more than ever before. Even giants like Victoria’s Secret are making waves by casting their first transgender model (for more info, read our article Is Victoria’s Secret Rebuilding Its Reputation?).It seems brands are finally realising the importance of representation.

In 2017 Allure Magazine banned the term “anti-aging” from their pages. They wanted to remove the shame that’s associated with aging by first changing the way we talk about it. Editor in Chief, Michelle Lee, said the term “anti-aging” sends a message that it’s “a condition we need to battle”.

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There are more mature models than ever before

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The supermodels of the 80s and 90s have grown older, but their influence has never waned. Supermodels like Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell and Christy Turlington are just as successful in their 40s and 50s as when they were young. Our article on the Top 10 Models Over 40 show just some of the success stories out there.

There are also hugely successful models over 60. In 2017, Lauren Hutton graced the cover of Vogue Italia at age 73. She’s just one of the mature models who is finding success in spite of—or because of—her age. Fashion is finally recognising that there is an elegance to aging. From Iris Apfel to Carmen Dell’Orefice, these women are owning their age and thriving.

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Australia is leading the way for mature models

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Australia is home to Silverfox MGMT, an agency that representsonlymature models. With models ranging from 30 to 90 years old, it’s refreshing to see the only cut-off age is at the bottom. Agencies like Silverfox give hope that anyone can start their modelling journey at any age.

Here at The Photo Studio, we have photographed many inspiring mature models. One of our favourites is Carol Green, a mature model in her 70s. When we first shot Carol at our studio, we were inspired by her unabashed confidence and charisma. She’s walked for Melbourne Fashion Week and done countless campaigns—and she’s showing no sign of slowing down.

Mature models like Carol are proof that you can start your modelling career at any age. Finally, the world is realising thatbeauty doesn’t fade as we age, it just changes.

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WANT TO INSPIRE CHANGE WITHIN THE MODELLING INDUSTRY?

The Photo Studio can help you gain the experience, knowledge and confidence you need to take the fashion industry by storm ⚡ Submit your details below and let your modelling journey begin!

One Comment

Age Is Just a Number: Why We Need More Mature Models in Fashion - The Photo Studio (15)Yvonne Bornstein

Hello
I filled in your enquiry form in the hope you may take me on board to do some mature age modelling but did not receive a “Thank you for your enquiry “ receipt
I am 65 years old (a very young 65) plus without sounding pompous, I have been told I can pass as 48!
If you did not receive it, can you please email me at : [emailprotected] or
call 0431677678

Reply

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Age Is Just a Number: Why We Need More Mature Models in Fashion - The Photo Studio (2024)

FAQs

Age Is Just a Number: Why We Need More Mature Models in Fashion - The Photo Studio? ›

Many realistic older models are needed for all types of modeling jobs. As the Baby Boomer generation ages, the demand for the representation of mature images has never been greater.

Is there a need for older models? ›

Many realistic older models are needed for all types of modeling jobs. As the Baby Boomer generation ages, the demand for the representation of mature images has never been greater.

Is there a need for models over 50? ›

Fashion has long valued youth above all, but there are strong signs that the tide is turning as more and more over-50s demand to see themselves represented and the modelling industry increasingly begins to champion diversity, in magazine publications, in TV adverts and on billboards.

What is the meaning of mature modeling? ›

Mature modeling, also sometimes referred to as senior modeling, is modeling for people over the age of 50. Both men and women are in significant demand for mature modeling, especially as the population of people over the age of 50 continues to grow.

What age do most people become models? ›

The typical age is 16-21. Models can be younger than this, but many agencies will require models to be at least 16. Likewise, models can be older but agencies and clients tend to like their models looking younger and more youthful.

Is there a demand for models over 60? ›

Sky-high demand for older models—women in their 60s, 70s, 80s and even 90s—is creating a silver wave in the modeling industry. They even get stopped at the supermarket. Ninety-year-old Frances Dunscombe only began modeling at age 82 after the death of her husband.

Why senior fashion models are increasingly in demand? ›

Companies are seeking lovely older people to become models to attract new customers. Opportunities for older professional models do exist in today's market. The trend is driven by the $2-trillion spending power of baby boomers born between 1946 and 1964, who make up 26% of the population, as stated in L.A. Times.

At what age do models stop modeling? ›

At what age do runway models retire? For many people, the perfect runway model age is up to 30 years old. However, as you have seen, even after 30, you can still rock the catwalk. Even models beyond 40 have graced the most prestigious catwalks.

How to get into modeling at 55? ›

The best way to start out, if you have no experience, is to call modeling agencies in your area and see if they have Open Calls, which are almost always the first step. Some agencies prefer to have you email them a candid photo then, if they're interested, they will call you for an appointment.

How do I become an older woman model? ›

As a mature model, you need to focus on including relevant images – there's no point including photos of you in your 20's if you're now in your 50's! Your portfolio should contain up to 20 photos that are professional and high quality. You should upgrade your portfolio constantly to ensure it's up to date.

Why are maturity models important? ›

A maturity model can be a great tool to help you assess the effectiveness of a current group or individual. Maturity models describe known states of being at various levels for given disciplines. Likewise, they provide examples companies can use to implement process improvement.

What is the role of maturity model? ›

A maturity model is a tool that helps people assess the current effectiveness of a person or group and supports figuring out what capabilities they need to acquire next in order to improve their performance.

What do maturity models do? ›

A maturity model is a tool that businesses and software development teams use to measure how well their business or project is doing and how capable they are of continuous improvement.

What are the 4 types of models? ›

9 types of modelling explained
  • Runway models. A runway model works most commonly on the catwalk, which is the runway at fashion shows where designers showcase their work, such as a new clothing line. ...
  • Fashion/editorial models. ...
  • Commercial models. ...
  • Photographers. ...
  • Textile designers.
May 11, 2023

How much do models weigh? ›

Their weight should typically be between 161 and 205 pounds, with a chest size of 41” to 45”.

How much do models get paid? ›

The average salary for a professional model in the United States is $236,556. Professional model salaries typically range between $89,000 and $624,000 a year. The average hourly rate for professional models is $113.73 per hour.

How much do older models make? ›

How Much Do Senior Model Jobs Pay per Month?
Annual SalaryHourly Wage
Top Earners$149,000$72
75th Percentile$112,000$54
Average$84,000$40
25th Percentile$44,000$21

What do most models do after they retire? ›

Many older models form agencies of their own, or coach younger models. Others get involved in the fashion business itself. The key whilst you're young is to get your entrepreneurial head on. Make the connections and gain the knowledge now, so that the transition is far easier for you the older you get.

Can a 40 year old woman be a model? ›

Become a model at the age of 40? Even at the age of 40, you can still join a model agency and take off. However, it is a great advantage if you have already gained experience. E.g. because you already work as a make-up artist, or in an advertising agency and have sometimes stood in front of the camera.

What age group is most interested in fashion? ›

In 2021, 31 percent of U.S. users who visited fashion retailers' sites were aged 25 to 30. Additionally, 17.8 percent of online fashion website visitors were between 18 and 24 years old. Only 8.2 percent were 65 years and older.

Does age matter in fashion industry? ›

Ageism does exist in the modelling industry, but that doesn't mean that older models can't find success. Several agencies represent older models, and many successful mature models have found success in the industry.

What age group spends the most on fashion? ›

45-year-olds spend the most on clothes, then spending gradually decreases. This shows that the spending habits of people in different age groups can be used to inform marketing strategies. Knowing which age group spends the most on clothes can help retailers target their products and services to the right demographic.

How long do supermodels last? ›

The majority of models start working before age 16 and their career is over by their mid-20s. Brown, who owns the Milan-based D'Management agency for professional models, said around 70 percent of girls selected for runways are new faces.

What percentage of models are black? ›

Runway Model Race
Runway Model RacePercentages
White55.8%
Black or African American17.1%
Hispanic or Latino12.0%
Unknown7.9%
2 more rows
Sep 9, 2022

Can you be a model at 59? ›

The modeling world is also open to women an men of mature age. As best ager or senior models women and men age 50 or older can become models, too.

How to start modeling with no money? ›

Steps To Starting Your Modeling Career Without Spending Money
  1. Clean Up Your Social Media.
  2. Learn Poses and Runway Walks For Modeling.
  3. Have Modeling Pictures Taken.
  4. Use Every Opportunity.
  5. Create Modeling Accounts.
  6. Apply To Modeling Agencies.
Aug 31, 2022

Who is the 70 year old model? ›

70-year-old model Maye Musk on challenging our beauty preconceptions. At nearly 70 years old and after five decades of modelling, Maye Musk is helping to challenge our preconceptions, one beauty shoot at a time.

How do you become a model in your 50s? ›

The most important thing you can do is to find an agency. There are some that work with older models so it pays to take some extra time to hunt them down. You'll need to have some headshots done professionally and lots of them. Expect to have to talk to many different agencies and leave your portfolio at each of them.

What do model agencies look for in a female? ›

Many modeling agencies and cosmetic brands look for a symmetrical face with even features. Because shots are extreme close-ups, so casting agents will be on the lookout for detailed face features like eyes, lips, eyebrows, cheekbones, and jawlines. Many successful models do not have these qualities.

What are the 4 types of maturity? ›

Four Kinds of Maturity
  • Physical. When I say physical maturity, I am not referring to the normal ageing process of our body but the fact that one day we realize that if our physical health is not in top shape, nothing else is worth much in life. ...
  • Mental. ...
  • Emotional. ...
  • Spiritual.
Nov 20, 2021

What are the benefits of maturity? ›

Maturity improves the ability to make good decisions. And with wise choices comes more stability in your life overall. Gone is the flurry of bad relationships, iffy decisions, wild nights out and horrible jobs. As you settle down, life becomes that much more stable and, consequently, easier to handle.

What are the characteristics of maturity models? ›

Levels of Capability Maturity Model (CMM)
  • Level One : Initial – Work is performed informally. ...
  • Level Two : Repeatable – Work is planned and tracked. ...
  • Level Three : Defined – Work is well defined. ...
  • Level Four : Managed – Work is quantitatively controlled. ...
  • Level Five : Optimizing – Work is Based Upon Continuous Improvement.
Mar 30, 2020

What are the 3 aspects of maturity? ›

Types of maturity include biological, mental, and emotional.

What are components of maturity model? ›

The capability maturity model framework has these main elements: Maturity levels: These are the initial, repeatable, defined, managed and optimizing maturity levels.

How might maturity modelling contribute to quality improvements? ›

The Improvement Maturity Model provides a roadmap segmented into five phases to help leaders drive continuous improvement cycles. A standardized model to guide improvement can help education leaders embed values, development and data into all decisions and actions behind strategic priorities.

How do you choose a maturity model? ›

What are the main factors a manager should consider when selecting a maturity model? RG: All stakeholders, including managment, should be able to easily understand the model. It should be affordable for your organization to implement, and its outcomes achievable. It has to be flexible.

What are risk maturity models? ›

The Risk Maturity Model (RMM) is an assessment tool focused on the organization's risk culture and the development of the organization's risk management program. It evaluates the extent to which risk management is embedded within the organization, where a high maturity level translates into effective risk management.

What are three major advantages to an organization using the maturity model? ›

Organizations that improve their level of maturity gain many benefits, including but not limited to:
  • Increased customer satisfaction with project outcomes.
  • Higher return on project investments.
  • Improved schedule and budget sustainability.
  • Lower cost of quality, while improving the level of quality.

What are new models called? ›

New models are known as new faces. Each agency has a special team of bookers to work with the model at the start of their career, from the moment they first walk into the agency until they make it big.

What are the three main types of models? ›

Many types of models can be grouped into three categories; visual models, mathematical models, and computer models.

What body type are models? ›

Catwalk models must be tall and slender, while glamour models are usually curvaceous. Alternative models need tattoos and piercings, while commercial models will do better with no body modifications. Some people may be attractive in real life, but that doesn't mean they'll look good on camera.

What do models eat? ›

What Do Supermodels Eat?
  • Carbs including lots of green, leafy vegetables including broccoli, cauliflower, squash and carrots.
  • Fruits including apples, oranges and pears.
  • Healthy fats including coconut oil, avocados and olive oil.
  • Proteins including chicken, turkey, fish, eggs and lean cuts of meat.

How much should a 5 6 female weigh? ›

Ideal Weight Chart
MaleFemale
5' 5"122 - 150 lbs.113 - 138 lbs.
5' 6"128 - 156 lbs.117 - 143 lbs.
5' 7"133 - 163 lbs.122 - 149 lbs.
5' 8"139 - 169 lbs.126 - 154 lbs.
28 more rows

How much should a 5 3 female weigh? ›

Height and Weight Chart
HeightWeight
5' 2"104 to 135 lbs.136 to 163 lbs.
5' 3"107 to 140 lbs.141 to 168 lbs.
5' 4"110 to 144 lbs.145 to 173 lbs.
5' 5"114 to 149 lbs.150 to 179 lbs.
17 more rows

Do models get paid in clothes? ›

You could earn between $200–$1,000, or, instead of payment, get to keep some clothing from the show. Gabriela Pierantoni, the owner of Corestone Models, says experienced runway models could earn $500–$2,500 per show. Supermodels, on the other hand, could make up to $20,000 for a runway show.

Do beginner models get paid? ›

Beginner and experienced models can earn $125-$175 per hour, with a two-hour minimum for all jobs. Commercial models in smaller markets can earn between $25 and $75 per hour. Plus-size and catalog models will typically be compensated the same hourly, full-day, and half-day booking rates as standard models.

Is there a market for older models? ›

Many realistic older models are needed for all types of modeling jobs. As the Baby Boomer generation ages, the demand for the representation of mature images has never been greater. Companies are seeking lovely older people to become models to attract new customers.

At what age is a models career over? ›

At what age do runway models retire? For many people, the perfect runway model age is up to 30 years old. However, as you have seen, even after 30, you can still rock the catwalk. Even models beyond 40 have graced the most prestigious catwalks.

What age do you stop modeling? ›

The majority of models start working before age 16 and their career is over by their mid-20s.

What age is too late to start modelling? ›

It's never too late to start

So despite what you might think, youth is not everything. The modelling industry is constantly evolving to include all looks and ages. No matter if you're in your teens, twenties, thirties – if you're interested in modelling, there's no time like the present.

Do models get to keep the clothes they model? ›

Despite getting to wear the most beautiful, expensive, glamorous outfits, models unfortunately don't actually get to keep the clothes. Sometimes you may get lucky and get to keep something, but this rarely happens. 7.

Does age matter in the modeling industry? ›

Ageism does exist in the modelling industry, but that doesn't mean that older models can't find success. Several agencies represent older models, and many successful mature models have found success in the industry.

Can you still be a model at 40? ›

Become a model at the age of 40? Even at the age of 40, you can still join a model agency and take off. However, it is a great advantage if you have already gained experience. E.g. because you already work as a make-up artist, or in an advertising agency and have sometimes stood in front of the camera.

What do retired models do? ›

Many older models form agencies of their own, or coach younger models. Others get involved in the fashion business itself. The key whilst you're young is to get your entrepreneurial head on. Make the connections and gain the knowledge now, so that the transition is far easier for you the older you get.

What is the average height of models? ›

Female measurements: Female fashion models are usually at least 5'9” tall. Model waist size tends to be 10 inches smaller than the chest and hips. Male measurements: Male fashion models are usually 6' to 6'5,” wear a size 40–42 top, and have a 32-inch waist.

Is 35 too old to be a model? ›

Most models begin their careers early on. Although their careers are relatively short, you can still try and be successful if you venture into modeling later in life.

How tall do you have to be to be a female model? ›

The standard height requirement for a female editorial fashion model is 5 feet and 9 inches to 6 feet. For men, the required height is 5 feet and 11 inches to 6 feet and 3 inches. You might have heard of top fashion models Kendall Jenner, Gigi Hadid, and Karlie Kloss.

Is 30 to old to be a model? ›

Most mature female models we see now are past supermodels who found fame in their youth. It's very uncommon to see a new face older than 30 with no modelling experience whatsoever. In commercial modelling, those over 30 years of age are likely to find more success.

How do you know if you should be a model? ›

Here are the top signs you should be a model to look for when wondering if you should go for a career in modeling.
  1. Your Instagram Grows Without Much Effort. ...
  2. Your Active Engagement Is High On Social Media. ...
  3. People Buy Things You Recommend. ...
  4. You Meet The Modeling Height Requirements. ...
  5. Local Stores Ask You To Model.
Nov 22, 2021

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