Models are engaged to display fashion clothing and facilitate their sales. Fashion modeling may involve catwalk or runway modeling or editorial modeling, covering photography for magazine spreads, ad campaigns, catalogues, print etc. The emphasis of fashion photography is on the clothes or accessories, not the model. Fashion models may be used to exhibit various types of clothing, such as lingerie, swimsuit, and bikini. Models may be used in showroom, fit modeling, fitness or sporty modeling. Some are used for petite modeling or plus-size modeling.
The female models are required to be around 34-24-34 in (86-61-86 cm) and at least 5 ft 8 in (1.73 m) tall. Most models keep themselves in good shape by taking extra efforts to highlight their chiseled features. While the preferred average dimensions for a male model are a height of 5 ft 11 in (1.80 m) to 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m), a waist of 26–33 in (66.04–83.82 cm) and a chest measurement of 32–40 in (81.28–101.60 cm).
Fashion models are usually highly paid and lead a high end lifestyle. These (usually female) celebrities, also known as cover girls, appear on top fashion magazine covers, in catalogues and in fashion shows.
Models take up different types of modeling such as:
Body part modeling
Some models are employed for their particularly attractive body parts. For example, hand models may be used to display nail care accessories, leg models are useful for showcasing tights, and wrist models are used to exhibit watches or bracelets. Petite models or females who are under 5 ft 6 in (1.68 m) have found success through body part modeling.
Bikini modeling
Bikini models are also usually required to be obviously fit and with an appealing body shape. Bikini models can usually be shorter, around 5 ft 5 in (1.65 m) to 5 ft 8 in (1.73 m).
Fitness modeling
Fitness modeling centers on displaying an athletic physique. Fitness models usually have defined muscles like bodybuilders, but with less emphasis on muscle size. Their body weight is usually similar to (or heavier than) fashion models, but they have a lower body fat percentage due to increased muscle mass relative to fat mass.
Glamour modeling
This kind of modeling emphasizes the model's sexuality rather than products, fashion or the environment. Glamour modelling often focuses on the body of the subject and insinuations and sensuosnes serve to enhance the attractiveness of an outfit or accessory. Glamour models may be used for mass-turned out calendars, pin-ups and men's magazines.