Becoming a commercial model starts with realising three key points.

1. Desire. No one is going to force you to become a model. You must want to be one, and to be involved in our client’s assignments to help them make a real difference. Commercial models shouldn’t register with us without being fully committed.
2. Confidence. Modelling can undoubtedly increase self-esteem, but models should have some confidence before thinking about joining any modelling employment agency. Models need to be comfortable around strangers and be able to take directions from professionals involved in the shoot.
3. Being realistic. By assessing the industry, improving your portfolio and knowing that success isn’t always instant, you’ll be more grounded and have more realistic aspirations.

All these characteristics apply to models of any gender and age (pets and babies excepted, of course), and all females should bear these points in mind.

But there are some pointers that we – the UK’s largest and most trusted commercial modelling employment agency – can offer females to help them stand out from the rest of the modelling pack. Read on…

First things first. Read our website and study our insightful blogs. For more blogs about the jobs our models have embarked on, please click here.

If it sounds like the sort of job you’d like to be involved in, we are only one application away. By applying with us, you’re giving yourself the best chance to be seen by our clients – who make the final decision.

Once you’ve registered with us, you need to focus on your Models Direct portfolio. This is personal to you, and only you have the power to alter personal information and the crucial photos of yourself. When your looks are perfect for any of the hundreds of available jobs we have, we’ll put you forward to our clients who can then peruse a model’s portfolio to see what models can offer. You’ll be at a severe disadvantage by leaving your portfolio untouched for months – we strongly recommended uploading fresh photos every few weeks.

So, you’ve done your research, and then applied with us. Female models should then keep up to date with modelling trends, and to keep looking at our jobs board. Models should not rest on their laurels, and they must keep evolving their looks via portfolios.

Female models look stunning in reels on social media. Don’t be shy at promoting yourselves. Show off new clothes and new hairstyles. Modelling is a two-way process. We’ll do our best to recommend you to our clients, but models need to put in their own work in the form of self-promotion. Don’t be big-headed, but do be brave and self-assured.

Be aware that there are different types of models. You may feel that you could excel as a sports model, or that your glossy hair or fabulous hands and nails are your best feature. Maybe you could rock your curves as a plus size model or be snapped up as a mature model.

There are plenty of opportunities for females of all shapes, sizes and ages. Those opportunities for talented females up and down the UK start off by joining Models Direct.

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.

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.

So, before you decide whether or not to try modelling yourself, it may be worth considering what you are interested in.

Models Direct has been in the business for 30 years now and mostly specialises in offering its female, male, child and pet models part-time work.

Those who accept assignments through us for our wide range of well-known clients could be helping to promote products and services in almost any area, from fashion and beauty to sports, homeware, banking, insurance and holidays.

We offer work to models of all ages, levels of experience, backgrounds, heritages and abilities.

We require plus-size, curvy, tall and petite models for assignments, as well as couples and families.

Our models accept a variety of assignments for different types of model.

Here are a few examples :

Fashion models

Fashion models are men, women and children are asked to model items of clothing and footwear. This might be at a live event, such as on a catwalk or at a fashion show or for a photo or film shoot.

Lifestyle models

Lifestyle models are also sometimes known as “everyday models.” Our clients need real people to represent genuine members of the public in their advertising and promotions. Models Direct therefore requires a broad selection of different individuals to undertake lifestyle modelling.

Commercial models

Like lifestyle models, commercial models may be employed to promote everything from high street and supermarket products to healthcare, travel and entertainment. They are often photographed or filmed enjoying the product or service in question – or they are simply pictured as content individuals leading the type of life the rest of us aspire to .

Promotional models

Promotional modelling is a live form of advertising and brand awareness. Our promotional models attend a specific event or location to help draw attention to a specific product or service. They might have to chat to members of the public, hand out leaflets and perhaps dress in a particular colour or branded outfit.

Fitting models

This is another form of live modelling – but without an audience! Fitting models are used by a clothing designer or manufacturer to check the sizes, shape and style of a garment. Fitting models have to try the item on and stand still while it is assessed and adjusted.

Fitness and sports models

Fitness modelling is where clients request a particularly sporty or fit-looking model who looks as though they may well indulge in the specific sport or form of exercise being promoted. These models may be modelling sportswear or equipment.

Bridal models

As we all know, weddings are big business these days and so Models Direct is frequently asked for models to pose as happy couples. Bridal models can be used to promote any products or services that might be associated with a wedding – and the photo or film shoot may well also involve other models who step into the role of other members of the wedding party.

Parts models

Parts models are male and female models who are employed for specific parts of their body – perhaps their hair, hands, feet or nails. They might have especially striking, attractive or unusual parts of the body that may be suitable for close-up photography. They may be employed to advertise footwear, jewellery or hair products, for example. Many parts models also undertake other kinds of modelling too.

If you are interested in a particular area of modelling, then fill in our form, send us a photo and tell us what you are keen to focus on.

Yes, the whole point of being represented by an agency like ourselves is that we will take the weight on our shoulders when it comes to promoting you, seeking the kind of work you are looking for and negotiating the best fee for each assignment.

So where do you begin?

First, be very sure that modelling is for you.

Read the reviews on our website from other models and find out more about the kinds of assignments we send those who work with us on by reading our blogs.

Spend a little time thinking about whether you would enjoy this kind of part-time work.

If you think it could suit you, then read on…

Firstly, ask a friend or relative to take some good, sharp shots of you, then fill in our form and send us one.

If you already have professional photos, please feel free to upload one of those – but if not, then we are very happy with home snaps, as long as we can see you clearly.

One of our professional team members will then give you a call to explain all the ins and outs of working with us.

You can ask them any questions you like and they will do their best to help you.

They will explain that we never guarantee to be able to place any of our models in work because it is our clients, not us, who make the final choice for each booking.

Once you have joined us you will be asked to keep your e-portfolio up to date in order to give yourself the best chance of being selected for the kinds of jobs you would like to accept.

If you are chosen, we will call you to explain more about the assignment – and you can decide whether or not you would like to go along.

As a fully vetted, registered government employment agency, we adhere to all the necessary rules and regulations for placing models in work.

We also go that extra mile in investigating each and every assignment and new client and in supporting our models as the booking approaches.

And you only have read a handful of reviews from those who have worked with us to see just how far we go!

For example, Monique said:

“It was my first ever job and I was so excited – practiced in front of the mirror until I got to the venue. I was nervous, but as time progressed I got more confident.

“When I sat in front of the camera, I was so shy but the model who was there with me was talking to me which helped to overcome the anxiety.

“The Models Direct team was great – they assisted and directed me in preparation in front of the camera.

“Overall, the shoot went well and I can’t wait to do more jobs with Models Direct.”

Gary said:

“Initially I was nervous as this was going to be my first proper model assignment.

“I had received full information about the shoot and Gemma from Models Direct had called me a few days before to go through the itinerary which put me at ease. 

“The client was great they were very welcoming and made me comfortable.”

And Keith told us:

“This was my very first experience working with Models Direct and the whole experience was fabulous.

“From the initial booking enquiry to the shoot itself, I personally found the whole process flawless.

“Gemma kept me personally updated prior to the shoot of how the day would run, which I found very reassuring.

“The shoot day itself was fabulous – a great atmosphere and a great team carrying out the shoot.

“A bonus was also the wonderful people I met who were also on the shoot.

“As far as I’m concerned it’s a five from me, well done Models Direct!”

Follow our application image guidelines

When applying, you’ll need to add two profile images – without these, the application won’t be able to move forward to the next stage. Models Direct needs one headshot and one full-length body shot, that’s all. Both images need to be clear, basic shots captured in front of a white background, and in portrait format. The ideal height-width ratio needs to be 5:4. The same would apply to your baby, junior and pet! It might some time to get the perfect shots but it’ll be worth it and help the application process speed up.

To make your images glow up, you don’t need to wear heavy make-up or have your hair done professionally. On the contrary, they need to be as simple as possible with neutral-coloured clothes. Accessories such as jewellery, hats, scarves or bandanas aren’t needed to glow up your images.

However, if you have any unique features – tattoos, piercings, beauty spots, braces or striking features – showcase them too! You can take a look at our blog which looks at unique physical characteristics.

Are you on socials?

If so, let our team know when you’ve sent your application over. When one of our modelling coordinators touches base with you, share your socials with them. You can also pop it into an email. We can take a look at your online presence and understand your visibility.

Do you have a website?

(We do! It’s new and refreshed so check it our here in case you’ve missed it!)

It’s not necessary to have one, but if you do have an online home to your profile pics, or things that interest you, please share it with us. This can add as a unique selling point, setting you apart from other models.

If you’d like to make your model application glow up, it’s much easier than you think! There are no tricks but lots of treats with positive outcomes in the end. Follow our application image guidelines, and let us know if you’re on any socials and if you have a website. All of these areas will help lead to processing your application faster, getting you onto our books and being visible to clients. Good luck! If you have any further questions, get in touch with our expert team!

Curve, plus-size or size-inclusive?

Whether they’re called curve models, plus-size models or size-inclusive models, this segment of the population deserves to be stylish and have access to collections just like other sizes do. As for which size is defined as plus-size, many companies do their take.

There’s been great strides in this part of the industry and out of all the fashion weeks, London has taken the top spot on the leader board where it’s been the most embracing towards size inclusivity. Okay, we know it’s not much but in this capital, 7% of models slaying the runway were plus-size or mid-size. Rather than looking at the percentage being minuscule, we’re focusing on the positives as is the body positivity revolution.

Brands taking plus-size to new heights

Yes, there’s still a long way to go on this journey of recognition and embracement but we’re travelling through already. Thanks to high street, premium and luxury fashion powerhouses such as Next, Karen Millen and Erdem, the footprints have already been embedded.

Vintage-inspired British womenswear brand Rixo drops new collections every month and has an “extended sizing” section dedicated to all sizes up to UK size 26.

Universal Standard (US) is another brand harnessing size inclusivity throughout their collections with staple fashion statements and a brilliant ethos of bringing fashion to everyone.

Fun fact: US collabed with Erdem in 2021 and a year before, published a children’s book titled What Would Fashion Look Like if it Included All of Us? to break down stereotypes and bring us all closer to clothing that suits our bodies.

Models Direct’s outlook

Over thirty years later, our philosophy has stayed the same – we embrace everyone, and we mean it – ev-er-y-one! This means whatever dress size you are, you’ll be in our MD books without any issue. We’re proud to support the body positivity movement and changes in the fashion and modelling world that are inclusive for all.

Like what you’ve read?

Stay in the know with all things Models Direct. Sign up here for our blogs for more exclusive topics to read about. 

Who is a female model?

The answer is: anyone who defines themselves as a female and is in the modelling industry. This is a sought-after modelling niche where there are quite especially millions dotted around the world. From iconic fashion models such as Naomi Campbell through to influencers like Ashley Graham, the female model industry is bustling, constantly expanding and evolving.

What are the four types of models?

The four types of models? Models Direct will let you in on something – there’s definitely more than four types of models. We know because our expert modelling team specialises in a pheltora of categories and they include:

Fashion modelling

Commercial modelling

Catalogue modelling

Promotional modelling

Baby modelling

Female modelling (the one we’re focusing on right here!)

Male modelling

Family modelling

Plus size modelling

Mature modelling

Body parts modelling

Fitness modelling

Petite modelling

The list is pretty extensive and we’re proud to be part of these opportunities, welcoming new models and boosting their chances and exposure, helping them to network with other models and clients. You can check out our female model reviews right here.

How tall is a female model?

If you’re looking for an agency that places no strict guidelines and restrictions on models, then you’re at the right place. Models Direct do not place barriers on our models and unrealistic expectations. Our height is something we cannot change (unless of course your footwear dictates otherwise or you go to drastic surgical measures). So, if you’re 5’6”, where you’re below the typical modelling height threshold but you’re above the petite modelling criteria then an agency like ours can help since we embrace everyone regardless of height and weight.

There you have it! All your questions answered right here by Models Direct modelling experts! We know that there are a lot more that might be whizzing around in your mind and if you have any you’d like to ask our team, we’re more than happy to answer them for you. We’re all about debunking and demystifying negative thoughts and ideas revolving the once thought restrictive modelling industry. Models Direct are gamechangers and have been breaking barriers for over thirty years. There’s no stopping us, so what’s stopping you? Talk to us, ask us, join us!

There’s nothing wrong with improving any aspect of your life. This could be general health, which we see particularly in the early months of the year after a heavy festive period (“heavy” on our bodies, sleep patterns and our wallets!). Improvements can be made in our careers or to our family life – for example, by trying to focus on spending more quality time with our partners and children. Adjusting and making tweaks to our life is natural for all-round happiness, but that doesn’t mean losing weight is the “be-all and end-all”. Self-confidence is crucial to overall wellbeing, and embracing our figures is far more beneficial in the long run than short-term fads.

We’ve been flying the flag for “plus size” models breaking barriers and raising awareness in the process. As prominent advocators of diversity, we don’t succumb to the myths or pressures of all models looking the same. There are three main reasons for this, namely:

1. We put all our model’s health at the top of list of priorities – be it mental health or physical wellbeing. And if that means a model is content in their looks, it’s irrelevant what their size is.

2. The “zero size” idiom is largely immaterial. If such a phrase is still being used, we’ll leave it on the catwalk, thank you very much. We’re interested in talented individuals succeeding in real modelling jobs, not models working for large fashion houses!

3. Because we supply models to the most varied clients around, we know that models of all sizes and shapes are big business. This is especially true of models that represent the vast majority of the population, which is why a “typical” physical figure is key to a lot of our client’s advertising campaigns.

If you’d like to “add more weight” to the case of even more models being in the spotlight of commercial modelling, check out this

The more the merrier! The more models with fuller bodies we have on our books, the more the message will continue to spread that big is not only beautiful – it’s natural, too!

We need our database of models to mirror the shift in society’s expectations. We also look at each and every person who expresses an interest in being a Models Direct model. Our diligent team of agency professionals have a keen eye for industry talent, so send in your photos and have the confidence to show off your looks to us.

Curves trump wiry waists every time, and all the major clothing labels have now embraced the 21st century by recognising the fact. Come and join the party, and let’s celebrate the anti-size zero revolution!

Body confidence is an important topic which we’ll talk about here, lending advice to everyone, whether you’re a model – current, soon-to-be or not. It doesn’t matter, to be honest – we hope this reading will benefit everyone reading it.

Can we ever be body positive?

Do you hate it when the summer comes and you don’t know what to wear? You would rather sweat it out than wear something that might even give a sneak peek of your ankles! We know the feeling!

Gaining body confidence is achievable (even if it’s hang-ups about your ankles!) but you’ll need to work at it, a bit like exercising but exercising your thought process. Those niggling thoughts can persistently whisper in the background. Utterly annoying, right?

We deserve to cheer ourselves on because only we can turn our feelings around. We’re unique creatures but mustn’t destroy even a nugget’s worth of positive emotion we have towards ourselves. Those nuggets are precious gems which can then snowball into something bigger, something much more liberating and powerful. Being accepting of who we are and being true to ourselves is the key to freeing our minds of negativity towards ourselves and in turn, just loving who we are! We want to look in the mirror and say, “wow” no matter what! We know it won’t always happen but we can certainly give it our best shot. 

2022 should be your year of trying to love who you are and letting go

Whether that’s letting go of thoughts, ideas, routines, habits and maybe people that bring you down, this year and for the many years to come, should be about enhancing your thought process and promoting body positivity for you and those around you too.

How can we be confident about our bodies?

Here are some ways you can capture the essence of this hot topic.

Positive affirmations

We have thousands of thoughts that run through our minds every day. It is estimated that 50,000 (some sources even state 70,000) are processed so you can say that our brains are prettttty busy! Unfortunately for us, around 70% to 80% of those are not the good ones according to Sarah Lambersky’s Financial Post article. They’re negative, therefore need zoning out and managing efficiently. Can we do this? Yes, of course, we can. It’s no easy task for one person but it’s not impossible either. Positive affirmations can be the beginning of that journey. Repeating only good words to yourself over and over will embed reinforced good thoughts where confidence will come more naturally to you. In the end, hopefully, you’ll give yourself more hope, determination and self-love.

Show yourself that you care

The idea of self-care might not come easily to you especially if you care for others more than yourself. But you matter! You have a right to take care of your thoughts, opinions, feelings and ideas. Learn to love yourself and your body better. Appreciate yourself, your skills, your abilities, your successes and your accomplishments! You are amazing!

It’s me-time

How many times a day do you take time out for yourself? Once? Twice? Maybe no time whatsoever? Well, it’s time to make a change and dedicate some valuable me-time because you deserve to reconnect with yourself. Find yourself, who you are, what makes you tick, what you like and don’t like (preferably not your body), and unleash your confidence, drive and zest for life.

We hope you enjoyed reading this. Let the negativity fizzle away and enjoy life with a more positive outlook on your body.