1 Comment / By Temperance Nichols
In the beginnings of modeling, the standard height measurements for a petite model was 5’2 to 5’7.
Today, the height measurements are still about the same.
Petite models in the fashion industry typically have at least one physical feature that gives an illusion that they’re taller than they are, such as having long arms, torso, or neck for their height.
Because of these traits, and when photographed at certain angles; a petite model appears just as tall as their counterparts.
We all have angles you just have to know how to work them
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Luckily today, we have powerful modeling agencies such as Wilhelmina, Muse NYC, and State Management who have merged and developed a division for petite models and plus-size models.
Fortunately, Petite Models can have a lucrative career, much like a fashion model
Petite models make their way into the industry by booking jobs within advertisem*nt, body parts (Figure) modeling, beauty ads, fitness modeling, showroom, and many other categories.
Advertisem*nt is a very profitable lane for anyone to work in, especially those who don’t fit the strict fashion industry requirements.
Model Dominique Robinson
Dominique Robinson is a model who’s under 5’7 and making a heavy mark on the fashion industry.
She created a movement that stands for petite models working more in the fashion industry for top brands.
and not just modeling body parts.
Dominique created a hashtag called #TooShortForWhat
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/iamdomrobinson/?hl=en
You Aren’t Signed To A Modeling Agency Yet?
That’s okay, you can still find advertising work.
There’s always a new local brand in your area who’s eagerly excited about advertising their products with models for free.
Petite models can easily score these jobs!
YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE 5’8 to appear on the cover of Vogue, commercials, or even cosmetic campaigns anymore.
Social media has changed the industry in so many ways.
One way is by discriminating less against models who don’t fit the traditional beauty standards.
If you have the look and drive to becoming a top model, you’ll get noticed with no hesitation.
Body ‘Parts’ Modeling can lead to an international contract!
I worked with an older woman years ago at a retail store who used to model overseas in Japan as a foot model.
She stood at about 5’2.
I’ve heard of models under 5’7 really making a lucrative career from only modeling their hands, feet, legs, stomach and various other body parts for specific products.
Figure models can be booked for any editorial job, with the intent of only modeling certain body parts.
Unless you’re purposely trying to be a figure model, it’s not a fair deal to subject petite models to only that type of modeling.
There are so many other jobs to be booked for.
but the market has changed, and petite models are now booking jobs that only a model who’s 5’8 or taller could work!
You’ll be surprised to know that the hands, feet, legs and various other body parts are not actually attached to the model who’s being photographed.
Just because a model is 5’8 or taller, doesn’t mean they have attractive hands, feet, and skin
A taller model’s hands and feet may appear too long in pictures.
The image needs to appeal to the consumer as well.
Having long thin fingers in today’s society doesn’t resonate with the mass majority of consumers purchasing the item.
When it comes to advertising wedding rings and shoes, clients scout for petite models who have smaller features.
I guess because a size 10 shoe being photographed isn’t that appealing!
So why not photograph a Petite Model from head to toe?
I believe everything and everyone has a purpose to create the perfect dynamic to attract people.
Brands have to use brainstorm strategically to bring the bigger picture to light.
That’s not to say petite models should only show their hands and feet, but the industry just has certain marketing strategies they follow, and I’m not mad at petite models for reaping the benefits of scoring these jobs, and traveling abroad!
How do you know if you have what it takes to become a body parts model?
You kind of don’t, it’s usually from word of mouth…
I’ve been told a couple of times that I have nice long fingers. I took a few photos, did a google search on body parts modeling agencies, and applied.
Just because a model is 5’8 or taller, doesn’t mean they have attractive hands, feet, and skin
I heard nothing back
I think my fingers are too boney.
With fashion and commercial modeling, you can get better by practicing posing and working on your facial expressions.
I can’t make my fingers any less bony than they are, so I moved on.
Your luck may be greater than mine was!
Make a quick google search on ‘Body Parts Modeling’, and research the agency to see if they’re legit and apply!
Other avenues to look forward to as a petite model are Beauty Ads, Fit Modeling and Showroom.
#BeautyAds
While shopping you’ll spot photographs of models, advertising products or clothes in the windows of popular stores.
Look around Ulta Beauty or Sephora
Ulta Beauty (a makeup store) is a perfect example of petite modeling.
You can’t even see the body of the models who are advertising the makeup; because it’s unnecessary!
All you need to see is the model from neck up advertising hair, accessories, and makeup products!
I love seeing petite models modeling commercial and beauty campaigns!
I enjoy watching petite models beat the beauty standards in general!
Fit and Showroom Modeling
Showroom models are hired to model a designer’s garment to buyers from department stores and clients.
With showroom modeling, models whose measurements are in demand by the consumer are the models who book showroom jobs.
If Versace pants in a size 2, 6, and 10 are sold the most, then a model who wears that size will be the one to model the clothes for a showroom job.
Many people are inspired to become a designer because they’re tired of getting discouraged at not finding clothes that properly fit their body type.
Like plus sizes or petite clothing
YOU CAN MAKE IT IN THIS INDUSTRY
With consistency it’s possible.
Stay active on your social media, get professional photos taken, or know your angels and take your own photos.
APPLY YOURSELF
Seriously , go out there and make it happen.
Keep building your portfolio with reputable photographers until the industry opens a door for you.
Reach out to mentors who will help develop your talent as a model.
I know all aspiring male models and female models want to sign to top modeling agencies, but that doesn’t always happen.
Take another route, and let a local boutique modeling agency develop you and put you in front of top modeling agencies!
The right door will open up, and you’ll sign to a great agency!
Don’t let the simple word‘No’stop you.
Create your own platform
MAKE PEOPLE NOTICE YOU!
Fit and Showroom Modeling
YOU CAN MAKE IT IN THIS INDUSTRY
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