In a world where everything seems to be based on looking young, has society progressed with embracing and celebrating the natural process of ageing? Let’s take a look at this popular topic and question whether it’s true that the modelling industry only prefers younger models. Let’s go!

Youthfulness is often linked to being attractive and healthy. But as ageing happens, so do many other expected (and unexpected) physical changes. This doesn’t mean that the spark or good health has to diminish!

The industry was indeed best renowned for only depicting young people but diversity is turning on its head now with age being celebrated rather than being shunned. With age comes a wealth of experience, wisdom, charisma and confidence to share and the modelling industry is embracing this.

Models Direct has been part of the age-positive change, not just now but for the past thirty years that we’ve been in the industry.

So, no, the modelling industry isn’t just focusing on the youth –  mature and senior models are getting the spotlight shone on them too.

Modelling has no age limit and we’re seeing this with fashion houses casting models over 50 or 60 such as Jerry Hall, Iman and Maye Musk.

Models Direct is all about breaking down barriers, eliminating fear and liberating people so that they can access amazing opportunities in the modelling world. It’s happened for thousands and thousands of our registered models over thirty and so many have been satisfied with our services. Don’t believe us? Check out our models’ feedback to see what they have to say about working with us!

Our mature female model, Nalini [Reference: VFPK-3897], was booked with ECL Care, a south-east England service for at home and in-community adult support. Here’s what she shared about her jam-packed day:

“One very wonderful day. From the time I joined Model Direct I have felt supported and informed as my application progressed. Today I had my first experience of a photoshoot. It didn’t start well as there was a major incident on M25 and I was delayed. Both Charlie from Models Direct and the staff from the company the photoshoot was for were very supportive and assured me not to worry. On arrival I was welcomed warmly and through the process until I left I felt special and accommodated. There was no rush though I was late . My role covered that i needed assistance in my home towards independent living and was receiving guidance encouragement and support by Care Supporting Staff to gain this eg by showing me on how to cut vegetables vegetables, make a sandwich and such. The venue was just breathtaking and the aura was very calming. This experience was very different from being an extra on film sets. Everyone present were so friendly.”

Our agency believes that we all deserve to feel comfortable in our own skin and to feel beautiful regardless of our age.

Owning who we are, inside and out, is important so that we can uplift ourselves, embrace self-empowerment and redefine ageing. That’s why our agency zooms in on silver foxes and trailblazers who have a wealth of life experiences to share as well as charisma and confidence.

One of the genres of modelling that models need to know about is editorial modelling.

But editorial modelling is a little different to commercial modelling. However, we do sometimes have openings for editorial models, so it’s important for our models to know the differences between the two, and how they can present themselves in the best light to be chosen by our clients.  

What is editorial modelling?

An editorial model is usually a model who is featured in glossy magazines – both in print and online. They typically advertise / market the latest fashions and luxury products such as jewellery and watches. Editorial modelling is seen as being “high class”.

What are the differences between editorial modelling and commercial modelling?

Perhaps the biggest difference is the target audience. Editorial modelling is generally more glamorous. It’s pitched to a more exclusive audience; potential customers can be from a wider geographical range, with perhaps more disposable income and extravagant tastes. Whilst the “average” person wouldn’t be interested in a suit worth £5,000 or a dress on the market costing an average monthly salary, editorial models will often model exactly these types of products.

Requirements for editorial models tend to be more specific. Many briefs call for exact heights and hairstyles (and, unfortunately, ages), so it can limit some models.

Commercial modelling aims to sell to the general population. We’re talking about high street retailers, campaigns for banks and supermarkets, and local / national charities. It’s more relatable than editorial modelling. The audience can be anyone of any age, and sometimes the aim of commercial modelling is not to sell – its purpose can be to raise awareness and educate, such as government campaigns. So, commercial modelling is more viable to many more people.

What can I do to give myself the best chance of becoming an editorial model?

Dreaming of being an editorial model is common amongst models. It shouldn’t be a “no-go area”, but models should realise that it’s more difficult than becoming a commercial model. It’s true that commercial models can be editorial models – and vice versa – although editorial modelling requirements can restrict models from doing both at the same time.

The key to being selected for editorial modelling is in the specifics. You may have the determination to succeed, and you may have the ambition to be photographed in glossy magazines, but you’ll probably need to work on your look to attract a client’s attention.

Here are some tips to stand out:

1. Study poses in magazines that have been perfected by editorial models. Even professionals don’t get the desired poses right on the first attempt. Focus on their head angles, and how natural their limbs look.

2. Experiment with fashions, hairstyles and make-up (minimally, please!)

3. It’s best to ask a friend to take photos of you. Selfies are fine for a lot of photos, but for editorial modelling it’s better to focus on your poses and let someone else take charge of the camera.

4. Get the lighting right – make sure it’s not too bright. You can use shade and glamourous backgrounds such as tasteful curtains and furniture.

Fast fashion was coined in the early 1000s thanks to fashion retailer Zara who was known for producing apparel at super speed. We’ll take a look at the pros and cons of the cheap and speedy production of the latest and newest trends AKA fast fashion.

Pros

Cheap & accessible

Fast fashion’s exposure to affordable clothing is at a high speed. The impressive turnaround is a big plus for consumers. With many high-street retailers adopting Zara’s business model, it’s exciting to know that you can have the latest collection on the runway at a fraction of the price. It’s literally on demand!

Diverse options

You’ll have quick access to the latest statement pieces everyone’s after. Fast fashion is all about pumping out styles and trends fast but with a variety of options to suit consumers’ needs and preferences.

Convenient

If you spot something on the runway you like, chances are you’ll see something quite similar hitting your fav fashion retailer’s shelf. It’s fun and convenient, making fashion fast and convenient for all those fashion lovers out there.

Cons

Not an eco-friendly option

Climate change is a hot topic being widely discussed on a global scale and fast fashion is playing a negative role and contributing to greater carbon emissions, and resources such as water and pesticides are being overly used.

Sustainable textile waste

As quickly as garments are generated is as quick as they’ll probably be discarded. As a result, fast fashion can lead to overflowing landfills and certain materials being overused due to excessive consumption.

Labour exploitation

Workers in developing countries often observe mistreatment with low wages and unsafe working conditions whilst being exposed to harmful chemicals.

Slow fashion is a much-needed response to fast fashion

More sustainable alternatives and ethical choices need to be addressed particularly for those of us who adore this industry practice. So, models, we hope you found this blog enlightening about fast fashion. Is it really worth it? Let us know your thoughts!

Therefore, if you are a woman of a dress size 14 or above or a man with a chest larger than 42ins and a waist larger than 34ins, you could potentially become a plus-size model.

However, it does also depend on your height and general build.

If you think you may be suitable for plus-size modelling, the best step is to fill in our form, send us a photograph and wait for us to be in touch.

Once we have all your statistics and information, as well as an idea of your body shape, we can offer you individual advice on how to proceed.

Plus-size modelling has really taken off in recent times.

The fashion industry has not only realised just how essential it is to cater for customers of all shapes and sizes, but the world of advertising has become aware of the importance of reflecting real people.

This means that there are now far more ranges of clothing aimed at those of above average sizes and that those conducting photo and film shoots often request curvy and plus-size models.

And, of course, this all comes as the world in general is edging towards a better understanding that we should all be celabrated for who we are.

Models Direct has always been about body positivity.

We love our models to be of all shapes, sizes, ages, backgrounds and abilities.

Our clients frequently come to us requesting everyday models and we have plus-size models who have been on our books for years.

Among them is Neri – here she explains more about her experience of working with us:

“This journey has been amazing so far, with my agent Molly having my back the whole time and encouraging my curvy self to push forward…

“Whatever happens, taking a chance on myself, was the best thing I did and Models Direct taking a chance on me, has been life changing.” 

Neri continues:

“I’ve worked with Models Direct since 2018 and I’ve always had great experiences with my bookings.

“I had another live TV show with Ideal World, modelling a different product and it was a lovely experience.

“The staff there are always so helpful and it’s so nice to go back somewhere, where they know your face.

“Thank you Charlie – always a superstar and the best agent ever!”

If you think you might be suitable for plus-size modelling, don’t hold back!

Get in contact with us and we can discuss it with you in more detail.

Mature models have always been popular, although you can never have too much of a good thing. Many modelling assignments call for mature models to get their message across. We’ve seen countless examples of mature models being recognised for their talents, from working for residential care homes to holiday parks. Whenever a big brand needs a model in their prime of life, they invariably to us to provide them with the best talent on offer. We’ve always had a successful relationship with our clients because they can rely on us to recommend exactly what they’re craving for. Our mature models certainly know they’ve joined the right team when they register their interest.

Opportunities for mature models continue to increase. We consider any model over the age of 40 years a mature model, and they’re instrumental in appealing to audiences of similar ages, or in a wide range of family modelling jobs. One of the benefits of commercial modelling is that there are chances for just about anyone, so mature models don’t get left out. In fact, the rise in mature models is not that surprising. We can come to some conclusions why models with a lot of life experience are popular:

1. Some assignments only require mature models because of the target audience. Whilst other models have the same talent and ambition, some briefs specifically need older models to see the job through from start to completion. Need an example? Look no further than the Aviva retirement campaign video, which appeared on the company’s website. Seen by a potential 30 million customers, this one really hit the mark.
2. Mature models often have more spare time on their hands as they turn their thoughts to retirement. Modelling is a fantastically fun way to earn money and make friends; some of our models consider it a hobby, accepting jobs only when they have the time. Whatever works for our models is fine with us.
3. As we have the largest range of vetted clients on our books, the odds of mature models finding ideal roles soar. The NHS, famous banks and pension schemes all need older models, and this trend seems likely to remain.
4. In general, mature modelling is slightly less competitive than other genres.

Stigmas in modelling have largely disappeared due to an increase in awareness and inclusivity. Mature models have never been stigmatised, though modelling was perhaps seen as something only younger talent could be involved in.

We never thought that, and our judgment has been confirmed by the rise in mature models year-on-year.

We welcome applications from enthusiastic and dedicated mature models – it could be the best thing you’ll do this year. As dictated by the demand from clients, we always need mature models so you’ve got nothing to lose and everything to gain.

Seeing people in the fashion world, social media platforms, TV, the big screen and as part of our wider society being put forward rather than placed back, is a positive change that’s had a lot of hard work dedicated to its cause.

Nevertheless, it hasn’t been easy. The plus size revolution has had its ups and downs, and as always, there are critical opinions still floating out there, stereotypes and prejudice which even though every part of the movement would like to remove, it’s not entirely possible.

However, we’re all still trying our best to continue to challenge the traditional beauty standards (size zero, super tall, chiselled features, not an inch of fat to be seen), and promote a healthier outlook to body positivity by accepting the diverse looks our population is proud to showcase.

What’s also tremendously helped elevate the trend is famous faces speaking out, campaigning and celebrating body diversity.

Take a look at some of these courageous ladies who are all about speaking their minds and not being afraid of standing up for their views.

Lizzo

The “Good as Hell” and “Truth Hurts,” singer, rapper, and actress has spoken openly about self-love and how she views her body throughout her career. With her reality TV show “Lizzo’s Watch Out for the Big Grrrls,” (2022) searching for backup dancers, and her shapewear collection, “Yitty,” designed for all body shapes released in 2022 she has said:

“I made the decision that I just wanted to be happy with my body and happy with who I am. You have to find that love for yourself deep down inside, underneath all of the questioning and iciness.”

Chrissy Metz

“Our bodies don’t define us—they just happen to be our vessels.”

If you haven’t seen the American comedy series “This is Us’ then you’ve missed out on a great asset to the body acceptance conversation. Actress Chrissy Metz has spoken about her own struggles with her body weight and how she sees herself, often talking about her childhood and weight journey.

Tess Holliday
Gorgeous plus-size model, author and activist, Tess Holliday was scouted by plus-size fashion brand Torrid. At first, she thought it was a scam but the next thing she knew, she was up on the billboards. This was just the beginning of Tess’s modelling journey.

She created a storm by sending out Instagram pics going against beauty norms and opening the conversation about how women can wear whatever they want regardless of their shape and size.

Tess has explained:

“Be yourself at any cost. Don’t make any apologies…Because you are great just as you are and if people don’t believe it, then you show them.”

Other notable figures include model/presenter Ashley Graham, actress Danielle Brooks, singer-songwriter Meghan Trainor and models Robyn Lawley, Paloma Elsesser and Denise Bidot.

Well, guys, we stand by you and have plus-size male and female models here at MD. We’ve always been happy to support and celebrate all body shapes and sizes, and moving forward we’ll continue to be part of this amazing initiative.

Well, we’re glad you’ve landed on this page because MD will let you in on a few of our own tried and tested tips to get ready for the summer and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere it brings.

Wardrobe overhaul

Yup, one of the first places we would ask you to head to is your clothes. Whether they’re stacked in a wardrobe, folded in a cabinet or kept under your bed in a storage box, you’ll need to work through what’s summer-proof and what’s not. It’s your choice, whichever way your sense of fashion is swaying because you own your creativity. If you’re doing this for your baby model or child model, it’ll be the same process. If they’re old enough, they can help you by picking their outfit or helping you with yours!

Don’t forget good footwear for longer walks, and accessories – UV sun hats and caps, and UV protected sunglasses, or glasses and a sun umbrella.

Take care of your skin

Whether it’s you, your baby, your child, your teen, your family, or even your pet, take care of your skin! Whether the sun is peeping out from behind the clouds or set high up in the cloudless sky, ensure you’re wearing SPF 50 cream along with a sun hat. We know your pet can’t wear the same cream but you can purchase specialist pet sun cream to protect theirs too. Stay in the shade and out of the sun during peak hours.

Hair care

The summer heat can sizzle your hair. Maybe you might want a haircut (don’t forget to include an ePortfolio snap for your updated look) just so that it’s manageable. If not, that’s cool too. Tie your hair up, out of your face, wear a hat or cap, or even cover it with a scarf or use a thick headband to keep it away and tucked in. You can use a hair mask to treat it and show your hair some TLC in the evenings.

Keep hydrated

Do you find that you lose your appetite when the temperature rises and all you want is ice-cold drinks on repeat? Yup, sounds like us on a hot day too! This often happens due to sweating, loose motions (you know what we mean!), and vomiting – all natural things that happen to our bodies. So, we get thirsty hence why we flock to the freezer to top up on ice cubes. Just remember to keep the sugary drinks down and limit the caffeine. You might feel more dehydrated and at higher risk of tooth decay and teeth stains.

Have light and nutritious food

There might be points you don’t want to eat at all and just top up with fluids but having light foods might be better than opting for an empty belly. Fruits, yogurts, vegetables, and other lean proteins such as fish, chicken, egg whites and lentils are beneficial options to choose from. 

While there’s so much to do and much to get on with this summer; there’s also much to look forward to over the next few months! Enjoy the summer because it’ll pass by and you’ll be wishing for it to come around sooner next time! Don’t forget to timeline your sun-drenched days for the benefit of your luminous portfolio. Keep smiling and keep shining!

Radiate this summer and glow up!

Love Team MD x

Yes, spring 2024 is bringing with it some lighter touches and some exquisite colours that truly reflect the natural shades around us at the moment, while also looking simply stunning.

So, for those of you thinking of snapping some new seasonal shots for your e-portfolios – or for anyone considering joining us and requiring an initial photo to send off to us – why not have some fun and try out a whole new spring make-up look?

Pink is still as present as it was last year, but this season is seeing a move away from that vibrant Barbie shade to something a little more delicate.

Models and would-be models, think baby pink and soft pastel shades when opting for rosy pink eye shadows, lipsticks and even blushers.

While pink is still very much a positive this spring, however, also consider teaming it up with some superb light blues, greens and yellows.

Be bold in your colour choices but not necessarily the vibrancy of the shades you are selecting.

Gentle pink lips can look amazing against lemon yellows and sky blues above the eyes, for example.

And you don’t have to overdo it – even the most subtle use of these delicious spring shades will help create a lively and exciting new make-up look this season.

Pink up any one of these hues in your nail varnish too and you will also be exuding glorious spring colour right to your fingertips!

For those planning a big night out or simply wishing to bring a little glitz and glamour to their look, you can also get away with a few spring sparkles this season.

There are some delightful eco glitters and metallic shimmers out there that will be simply sublime with your seasonal pinks, blues, yellows and greens.

There are also some lovely plant-based glitters to add to your nails that will tie in beautifully colour-wise and certainly add some twinkle to your overall look.

At Models Direct we believe this season doesn’t have to be about making big changes…

But bringing some lovely new colour into your look could help lift your mood and perhaps even put a spring in your step.

Cook up a nutritious treat

When we say, “treat” we don’t mean something sugary, we mean a real meal featuring important components from differing food groups. Models Direct has protein, healthy fats and complex carbs coupled with plenty of fluids in mind (but don’t leave the latter lingering on till late otherwise you’ll be up for frequent night time trips to the loo!)

If you’re pressed for time, plan your week’s meals, freeze batch them and then take a portion out (depending on your family size) first thing in the morning so it defrosts, ready to be heated through when you’re back. This will help if you have a family modelling squad where you’re always on the go! A healthy balanced evening meal (not too late, mind!) is a good way to relax as you enter the evening.

A walk in the evening

You can now consider a walk after your meal. Whether you’re venturing out solo or as a duo, or a group of evening-time walkers, a walk during this time can help you relax after your long day’s work. The weather is usually cooler (hopefully not freezing or pouring it down), and the atmosphere feels calmer with less traffic and noise. This is one way to end your day on a calmer note plus getting in exercise.

Next up, your fav downtime activity

What’s half an hour in the grander scheme of things? It’s enough to trigger happy hormones, like your dopamine levels, and make you feel, well, happy! After monstrous traffic or a long day of shooting stills, are you lost for ideas? How about these:

Listening to your fav music

Listening to your fav podcast or audiobook

Reading

Meditating

Chatting to friends or family

Watching your fav movie or sitcom

Having a bath

Playing with your pet (if you have one!)

Journaling

There are lots of activities you can decide match best with who you are and which suit you. Choose anything that tickles your fancy for the end of your evening. Own it and relax.

Reduce your device usage

This is such a hard point to follow but it needs to be done to help you sleep better. Stay away from any devices close to bedtime (particularly 30 minutes beforehand) as blue light suppresses the body’s ability to produce melatonin which is needed to help you sleep. Packing it in together might be the best idea moving forward to a more relaxing and sleep-filled evening.

Models Direct hope that this blog has helped you to unearth some tips on how to unwind for the perfect evening routine.

This blog is ideal for anyone seeking serious winter skincare advice and a beauty regime that will take you nicely into spring. Models Direct are here to help you take control of your skin even when the weather is out of your hands. If you’re a model let’s begin!

It starts with a healthy lifestyle

We know you know this tip already but we can’t stress it enough – it’s true and it works. A lifestyle that encourages your skin to produce more of its natural oils really helps to combat winter weather. This means eating better, keeping hydrated, exercising and sleeping well. So, regain control of your skin by having a healthier outlook and lifestyle. 

Use simpler skin products

We’re lucky that there’s skincare to suit all skin types now – dry, normal, sensitive or oily. Whatever suits your skin, there’s a product out there and what’s even better is that many are now omitting harsh chemicals benefitting the skin and environment. Drying and damaging parabens, phthalates and sulphates are now being missed out and companies are proudly supporting their products that are 100% vegan and cruelty-free. So, be kind to your skin and opt for more natural, uncomplicated products so that the skin has more time to restore and protect itself from the colder weather. 

Speak to a skin specialist  

If your skin is finding it difficult to recover from winter breakouts even when you’ve tried everything (eating and sleeping well and using mild skin products) then the next step is to get in touch with your family doctor or be referred to see a dermatologist. It could be something that’s remedied by a prescription or a skin condition that’s medically diagnosed. 

Invest in a dehumidifier 

Give the air you breathe back the love it deserves with a dehumidifier. During the colder months, the air’s moisture is quenched through the heating being put on throughout the day, and a dehumidifier can restore this imbalance which your skin can in turn benefit from. 

Sunscreen all year round

It might be tempting to only pack on sunscreen when it’s hot but the sun’s rays remain damaging to the skin when it’s cold too. For all year round protection so that the sun doesn’t zap the moisture out and cause premature ageing, wear a high SPF cream. Your skin will appreciate it. 

Bonus tips are:

Drink plenty of water, reduce your time in the shower, cleanse judiciously, exfoliate once a week, sleep well and take care of your mental wellbeing. 

Female models and male models alike can jot down some notes from this page so that their skin can be in its best form for the lights, camera and action. Hopefully all these tips will help you get through the cold chill with a skincare regime that will stick, ready for some amazing assignments in the winter weather.