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FAQ : How is commercial modeling different than fashion modeling?

Have a question about acting and commercial modeling? See if it’s answered in our Frequently Asked Questions below:

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Fashion models primarily promote high end designer clothes and makeup. The commercial model is the silent salesperson promoting everything else! He or she has to act without words.

To even be considered as a fashion model you must have very specific physical requirements. Normally female fashion models are between 5’ 10” and 6’ tall and must wear a size six to eight. Male fashion models are normally 6’ to 6’ 2” tall and wear a size 40 regular jacket. Commercial models, on the other hand, do not have any height, weight or size restrictions. In commercial modeling people of all heights, weights, sizes, ages, and races are hired. Instead of only promoting high end designer products, commercial models advertise everything else.

In order to work as a fashion model, one must be ready to pick up and move to Europe or Asia. That is where fashion models go to get experience and build up a strong portfolio. Once that is completed then a fashion model must live in one of the four major fashion markets in the United States. Their options would be: New York, Los Angeles, Chicago or Miami. With commercial modeling, work is generally available throughout North America. There is no need to live in a major commercial modeling center, unless someone is interested in pursuing commercial modeling as a full-time job.