If you’re on a quest to tour a life-changing international destination this summer, land on relaxing beaches, explore attractions and learn about wildlife sanctuaries, then a vacation is definitely on the cards. Your expedition doesn’t have to be flashy, you can get a great budget holiday by looking around and booking in advance, and really enjoy the experience of going abroad without the price tag. We’re ready, are you?

Places to visit

You can explore hundreds of countries, with almost 200, the world is your oyster. We’ve picked just a few out to give you guys some inspo and some gems to discover this summer:

Malaga, Spain

Brittany, France

Umbria, Italy

Phuket, Thailand

Akyaka, Turkey

Santorini

St Lucia

These go-to destinations are definitely worth visiting, from luscious tropical foliage, watching sensational sunsets, enchanting panoramic views, dipping into picturesque pools, inviting peaceful mornings and disconnecting from the rush of everyday life. Our hot picks are great to spend some time unwinding and recharging your batteries whether you’re travelling by yourself, with your partner, friends or family. Perfect for little ones, children and teens too, you’ll find that there’s something for everyone.

Our international projects

Our agency isn’t new to international modelling projects. We’ve been around the world including the romantic and breath-taking landscapes of France for successful projects. Now that we’re all able to move freely again, these projects are popping up and we’re looking for models that are ready for something big and impactful. Are you interested? 

The holiday takeaway

So, how do you feel about travelling abroad this summer? Positive, we hope! Have your backpacks, gear and luggage (not to miss out on essentials like your camera, selfie stick, tripod and holiday wardrobe) on standby, and join Models Direct with our travelling arrangements that might land you in exotic lands and waters. This is the summer you don’t want to miss out on!

We’re ready for action; no more being held back and being told we can’t, thank you very much. We can and we shall! Live your best life, and get on board with our modelling agency. If you’re not sure, head on over to our library collection of reviews so you can get a better idea of what life is like as a Models Direct model. If you need to speak to our team, please reach out to us over the phone or email and we’ll be more than happy to have a chat.

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Here at Models Direct we have extensive experience in the business – after all, we have been doing it for 30 years now!

We have members of staff who have been part of our team for more than 20 years and we have clients and models who have also been with us for considerable lengths of time.

This is because we are a genuine, reputable agency, which is fully vetted and regulated, and we offer a highly professional, yet friendly, service to our models and clients.

Unlike many modelling businesses that claim to be agencies but, in reality, simply showcase the pictures of their models on a website, we have a dedicated, in-house Bookings Team that actively seeks work.

These skilled team members spend their days talking to our regular clients and putting out the feelers to new ones to ensure we have a steady stream of work for our models.

They are highly experienced at building relationships with businesses that might require models and they are accomplished at matching those on our books with just the right jobs.

They vet every single client and thoroughly investigate every single booking to ensure everything is above board and that we and our models understand what is required.

They also explain to our clients that we require payment in advance for every booking.

This means we can reassure our models that not only will they be paid, but that they will receive their money within just a few days of completing the assignment.

Also within Models Direct, is our highly skilled New Face Team.

These friendly members of staff have also been with us for many years and know everything about our business and the industry.

Whenever a model applies to Models Direct, they contact them by phone to explain how we work and to answer any questions they might have.

From that point on, each of our models will have his or her own personal contact at Models Direct, someone they can call if they ever have any queries or concerns.

Whenever we consider a model for an assignment, it is this contact who will call the model to explain more and see if they are interested.

If they are keen to be put forward for the booking and the client selects them, then the contact will explain what is required in much more detail.

And, again, they will be there to answer any queries and offer their support when needed.

We value the good relationships we have with our models and our clients – and we do our very best to keep everyone happy.

Find out more about who we are here and also read what those already working with us think about the service we offer.

Of course, please do contact us if you’d like to chat to one of our approachable team members about how we might work with you!.

1. Clothing reboot

Since we were indoors for nearly two years – can you believe it? – loungewear and sportswear were our go-to clothing preferences for our dramatically changing world. We were stuck inside so there wasn’t a need to dress up or even wear casual clothes since we were only navigating through our gardens, kitchens, home offices and eventually outdoor recreational activities.

Now, according to The Business of Fashion, 37% of fashion executives expect us to be drawn to occasion wear which is predicted to be within the top-three of our preferred clothing categories.

Occasion dresses and workwear are rebounding swiftly as we’re adjusting to a new lifestyle where restrictions are lifting. Models can expect to be wearing these types of clothing in 2022 on the runway or for commercial modelling projects.

2. Investing in recycling

Sustainability is a hot topic we’ve all got our eyes on and with the recent COP26 which was held a few weeks back, we’re actively looking at ways to reduce our environmental footprint and the long term impact it will have on our earth.

One route the fashion world is taking is to leverage closed-loop recycling. According to The Business of Fashion, 60% of fashion executives have already taken steps to invest in this methodology or are planning to. This is where textile product waste is recycled into new textile products making this a valuable strategy that is set to take 2022 by storm in alliance with the sustainable outlook.

3. Changing user experience through social shopping

Innovative ways of presenting fashion will bring value to users’ experience through convenience and access to technology. 2022 is forecasted to explore more ways of engaging virtual fashion, from live streaming to augmented reality try-on boosting the social shopping realm. This will change how people will view and engage with fashion, even during troubling times.

We were sitting indoors scrolling through our feeds for the most part and now 70% would be inclined to shop on social media for clothing. We’re learnt that technology has been a great asset to the world during the pandemic that it’s set to continue connecting people, establishing and building new relationships.

4. Increase in modelling divisions

Our agency, Models Direct, are predicting that new modelling divisions will launch next year. What could they be? Only time will tell but over the years we’ve seen a shift in change – plus-size and models with special abilities have been recently added to our categories. So, we think we’re in for some interesting changes where more models will be called and we can’t wait to see what’s in store.

The takeaway

Many predictions have been forecasted for 2022 but Models Direct have explored what’s set to happen in the world of fashion and modelling. It looks positive and busy, and we’re sure our models will have a great time being part of the modelling revolution that is in store next year.

If you’re not part of our agency, please join us – we’d love to hear from you and be part of our predicted trends for 2022!

So, why not show us what you can do?

Choose six different styles for your e-portfolio and present them to us to really highlight your versatility.

Remember, the looks need to be appropriate to your age and what you think we and our clients might be looking for.

They also need to be right for you – so, while we are suggesting six different styles here, you may well wish to adapt, refine or completely change these to suit you and your unique attributes.

1. Casual

This is the “Saturday morning” look. We would love to see you wearing something casual and fun but not too outlandish – the kind of outfit you might wear to meet up with friends for a day out or lunch, perhaps. Jeans or a casual shirt could be perfect. Try dressing them up with a pair of attractive shoes, a colourful shirt or t-shirt and perhaps a jacket. Avoid the temptation to over accessorize.

2. Formal

This is your chance to be a bit dressy, but keep it smart, stylish and elegant. Guys, this is your opportunity to wear a suit, but let’s not go for a full-on job interview or wedding style. Try a suit with a nice cut and perhaps a t-shirt underneath. Girls, again, we don’t want to see you looking prim and stuffy, a trouser suit or well-fitting dress or skirt, with a jacket, could look great but think celebratory meal out in a nice restaurant rather than daily commute – and let’s have a relaxed pose, with a nice smile, to offset the formality a little.

3. Sports

Are you a sporty type? Then show us what you look like in your sportswear. Let’s have you in something neat and stylish, however, rather than your baggy old jogging bottoms and favourite weight-lifting vest. Surf the net for inspiration, decide what suits you and then team it up with a pair of trainers. Think about a suitable sporty pose for your pictures – but don’t overdo it.

4. Summer

Seasonal photographs are essential, so why not think balmy spring or holiday abroad for one of your images? Wear something light and summery that suggests happy times on a warm day. You do have some licence here to take your outfit a little shorter and to reveal some flesh, but keep it tasteful, seasonal and appropriate.

5. Winter

Balance your summer shot out with something more wintery and autumnal. Think long trousers, jeans or a skirt or dress with tights. Top off your look with a warm or earthy top, a piece of elegant knitwear and even a winter coat or jacket. Just make sure we can see you and your body shape. We don’t want you so wrapped up against the cold that we can’t get a sense of who you are underneath all the layers!

6. Party

This is your chance to have a little fun! But try not to go overboard – and keep it smart and stylish. Choose something elegant yet playful. Ladies, you can bring in a little shimmer and shine, but don’t overdo it. A nice little black dress, with a pair of party shoes and perhaps a sparkly cardy or jacket could look fab. Some nice jewellery and a party hairstyle could really complement the look. But remember less is more. Blokes, smart jeans, with a t-shirt and jacket could be just the ticket for you here.

You may well have been juggling looking after your family with work and home schooling over recent weeks – and on top of that you are probably missing seeing friends and family.

Well, as the weather improves and lockdown hopefully eases in careful stages, try to find a little time just for you and set yourself a few goals that might help you to feel better in the long-run.

Here are a few suggestions from the Models Direct team:

Try to find a little time for yourself

We know this is easier said than done and that at the moment you are limited to who you can leave the children with and what space you can claim for yourself within the home. But, if you have a partner, suggest you might have at least one evening a week, where they cook, put the children to bed and leave you to enjoy your evening as you choose. Read a book, talk to your friends on the phone or Zoom or pamper yourself with a long bath. Suggest that this might happen on the same day (or even days!) of the week. Then you will have something to look forward to.

Plan some exercise

Getting yourself moving with an exercise plan is never easy but it really does pay dividends! Once you are on your way with it you will start to feel so much better physically, mentally and emotionally. If you can leave the house, think about downloading a couch to 5K app. These are very gentle – they start with walking – and will help you to improve your fitness at a level that is manageable for you. If you find it hard to leave the house for any reason, consider doing Joe Wicks or looking for another high intensity interval training workout to do on YouTube every day or every other day at home. These are short yet will quickly help you to feel fit and healthy.

Enjoy the fresh air

As the weather improves, try to get out and about a bit more. Sit in the sunshine in your garden if you have one for 10 minutes with a cup of tea every so often and aim to go for at least one walk every day. While restrictions are still in place, why not arrange to walk with a friend at the same time on the same day every week? Regular arrangements are harder to talk yourself out of and you will benefit from the socialising as well as the fresh air and exercise.

Join a class of two

Look for some online classes that are local and that you might be able to continue with face-to-face once restrictions are lifted. Look for dance classes, for example, that are fun and will give you a good boost. Alternatively, find a cookery or craft course that will give you new skills and be something to look forward to every week.

Make some plans

We all know how hard it is to plan at the moment – and how let down we feel when the situation with the virus changes and we can’t see our plans through, but there’s no harm in mulling over a few ideas of what you’d like to do in the future. Look up theatre shows and other events you might like to go to later in the summer or the autumn if they are permitted. Consider investing in one or two tickets, if you are sure you will get your money back or the dates will be rearranged if they can’t go ahead. Make some plans for things you can do in the future, regardless of what happens with the pandemic. Think about redecorating a room in the house, creating a new seating area in the garden or planting out a few colourful pots that will cheer you up when they blossom in the summer.

Of course if you think now might be the right time to launch your modelling career or perhaps you’d like to venture into an exciting new challenge click here and you can speak to one of our agents today

At Models Direct, one of our greatest emphases is always on the importance of ensuring our models and aspiring models not only upload the right kinds of images, but also update them with regularity.

So why are portfolio photographs so important?

1. These are the pictures our clients see – and they will make all the difference between you being offered work and not being offered work.

2. The better your photographs are, the more you will stand out from the crowd of other models, all essentially competing for the same work.

3. If you turn up to an assignment and your photographs are out of date and do not reflect the way you currently look it could affect the success of the whole shoot and the client won’t wish to employ you again.

So, what should you consider when taking your portfolio photographs?

Here are a few dos and don’ts to remind yourselves of:

Don’t

·  Necessarily use a professional photographer. Following the steps outlined here is more important, plus we ask our models to update their photos every three or four months.

·  Take pictures in poor light or with a busy background.

·  Wear a hat, sunglasses or other accessory that hides or disguises any part of your head or body shape.

·  Wear too much make-up.

·  Scowl in any shots or include pictures where you don’t look open and approachable.

·  Include pictures with other people in them.

·  Put filters on any of your images.

·  Edit or distort your photographs in any way.

Do

·  Include at least one head shot and one full-length image.

·  Ensure all photographs show your face very clearly.

·  Make sure any full-length pictures show your body outline clearly.

·  Take your photos in natural light, avoiding glare.

·  Ensure you have a clear background, with no clutter or too much going on around you.

·  Try to take the photographs against a plain background if possible.

·  Include a selection of images to show your personality, versatility and confidence.

·  Ensure you are fully dressed.

·  Showcase yourself as a smiley, friendly and approachable individual.

·  Include images showing your latest look.

·  Include images showing a tattoo or piercing.

Finally, remember to display your full potential:

If you think you could be a good fitness or sports model, then include one or two images with gym gear on.

If you believe your hair is your strong point and you could be ideal for hair modelling, then have a number of shots showing different styles.

If you are putting yourself forward for family modelling, then we obviously need to have a good selection of pictures with all family in.

This is because people change, and companies need to adapt to stay in business. What if retailers – whether online or in the high streets – sold pretty much the same merchandise. Big mistake!

Every large manufacturer has departments dedicated to looking for the “next big thing” or styles that customers need. It’s their responsibility to look ahead, and not to be left behind by competitors. This not only applies in the world of fashion: supermarkets, car manufacturers and record companies (to name just a few) need to have their corporate finger on the pulse. But perhaps the clearest of “fashion evolution” can be seen in the modelling world. After all, not everyone needs a new car or the latest CD / DVD. We all need clothes!

One of the most globally-observed changes in recent trends are seen in “plus size” models. Models of either sex in the “plus size” category have been in demand for years – but it’s only relatively recently that they’ve really come into their own. Now, above all, “plus size” models are in demand…and their popularity shows no sign of wavering. This is good news, but why have they become more popular with clients looking for models?    

To start with, let’s eliminate the inverted commas when referring to plus size models. It’s true that there’s a universal definition (and so inverted commas are sometimes necessary to define the term), but larger models are no different to any other, and therefore shouldn’t be distinct by applying provocative punctuation marks.

Though the term is still used, plus size modelling carries no stigma, and is about celebrating all body forms and sizes. Have a look in shop windows, in department stores, at TV adverts and on corporate websites – there’s far more choice for females of size 16 or larger than ever, and more shapely models are flourishing because of it.

Let’s not forget the gents. Larger males are also desirable for a range of advertising purposes. The fact that there are more clothing sizes and styles on the market means more models are necessary to help endorse products for everyone – not just a select few dictated by trends.    

Brands need to “go with the times”, and Internet activity is a huge indication of current trends. One of the reasons larger models are now more in demand is because of the surge of social media attention. There are more celebrities with tens of thousands of followers eager to share their habits, interests and gorgeous curves, unconcerned with personal attack or immature criticism. They should be applauded! More people who choose to display their bodies undoubtedly equates to an increase in confidence in others. Curvy figures are far more prevalent in the media these days because people feel more conviction in their actions. Embracing who you are is key to being comfortable. And so it should be!

2020 has been a successful year for models, contradicting the national economic trend. If you want to show off your curves but haven’t done so already, 2021 could be your time to actively be involved in this lucrative and enjoyable side of modelling – and Models Direct will be with you every step of the way. If you’re already a plus size model, continue embracing the plus size movement. It works!

Models Direct have been representing female models for 30 years now…we’ve seen that this modelling category continues to be in high demand where our extensive client database frequently call for women to model for their marketing campaigns. 

Models Direct have been finding work for our amazing models in photographic, promotional, fashion, advertising, film and TV jobs. When you see females representing a brand or organisation on print or digital, the chances are that their look has been called for by a client and they have been selected by a modelling agency.

This is exactly what we do at Models Direct!

Female models work on a daily basis promoting brands and products, big and small, for local and worldwide audiences. Our modelling talent feature and represent plenty of industries including hair and beauty, fashion, travel and tourism, fitness and wellbeing, lifestyle, business, education and lots more. 

When opening the pages of a magazine, catalogue, booklet, pamphlet, leaflet or any other type of print, you are bound to see a female model who has been pictured (or filmed, just to add). The goal is to promote a product or service aiming to engage and build a connection with the target audience. Think of all the adverts you have seen which have been memorable to you; the ones that stick in your mind with a female model representing the brand. Olay? Pandora? TUI? There are lots out there therefore lots of opportunities and lots of potential for newcomers to the modelling industry. 

Modelling has an interesting way of opening possibilities of self-expression, boosting confidence, having fun whilst earning money. That’s why our female models enjoy being part of the Models Direct team and thrive on new assignments which open doors to networking and exploring other paths and routes such as TV and film work whilst being an out-of-the-box career that sets them apart from the crowd. 

We welcome models from all walks of life; different cultures and backgrounds regardless of age and size. We pride ourselves on diversity and inclusion within our organisation. We have a very fun, hard-working and honest culture that is supportive of open communication and collaboration between our team, models and clients. 

If you’re ready for something unique, sign up with our top UK modelling agency and see what modelling is like for yourself.

Our no-nonsense approach backed with in depth knowledge and a pizzazz of positivity and encouragement is what our models love about working with us. You can read their reviews here to see what they say about us and life as a female model. 

Modelling has always been a flexible career choice, if you love being infront of the camera, using your acting skills and working amongst creative people, then it could be the perfect career path for you. As a commercial model you are in control of your diary, what assignments you decide to take on and along with your agent, negotiate the rates you’d like – sounds good to me!

Yes…it’s competitive and doesn’t come with guarantee’s, but it’s like everything in life, the more you put in the more you will get out! It’s now easier than ever with all the great technology and social media we have at our fingertips to get noticed and Models Direct have 30 years experience of connecting models with clients, so we know what we’re talking about..

For any successful model, whether it’s in the commercial or fashion industry your portfolio is key…getting this right along with having a great agent will create many opportunities for you and kick start your dream modelling career.

Follow these simple steps to having the perfect modelling portfolio:

• Wear something simple. Clients want to see your potential, so try to wear something plain but also flattering. A white t-shirt and jeans are always a good choice and keep your look clean and simple – don’t over complicate things!
• Wear minimal make-up. A full face of make-up has a time and a place. Stick to flattering neutral shades and work on accentuating your favourite facial features – clients want to see your features and how diverse your look is, so don’t cover up in layers of make up.
• Use natural light. Natural lighting is the most flattering, so try to position yourself near a window or outside if possible. The time of day will affect the type of lighting, this can make such a difference to your images, the best time of day is early morning or late afternoon/eve when the light is much softer. This will avoid squinting, harsh light and shadows.
• Use a good camera. A lot of phone cameras have excellent cameras nowadays but, if possible, it’s always best to use a high-quality DSLR camera they will really pick up all your features and details and ensure the images are of a hhigh quality and size so they don’t become pixelated or out of focus when sent out to clients.
• Don’t forget your background. It’s important you give some thought to the background of your images, keep it plain and ideally light in colour, this will make you stand out more which is essential when you are being put forward to a client amongst other models. Plain walls are best!
• Take close-ups and wide shots. Your portfolio should have an effective selection of images on it, both headshot and full length. To be a successful commercial model you need to be able to portray different characters and looks, this needs to come across from your portfolio.
• Practise your posing. Overly-pouty lips may look great on Instagram, but they’re not going to cut it in the modelling world. Remember your images are being sent out to large International brands who have high expectations, your images need to reflect that. Practise posing in the mirror; clients will want to see your relaxed face, as well as shots of you smiling and your personality coming through.

If you are thinking about pursuing a modelling career, perhaps you would like to take a minute and read our models feedback of their assignment experiences..gives you a real insight into what it’s like as a part-time model.

If you are on the Models Direct books and have perhaps neglected your portfolio a bit, now’s the time follow these simple steps to boost your chances and make sure your full potential is being seen…our bookings department is getting busy again, shoots are happening and now is your chance.

Models Direct have put together an easy and time-saving morning routine for men, which will have you looking and feeling your best for your day ahead. Models will know how important incorporating a beauty regime is to achieve good skin and hair care no matter what the time is. Teen models and senior models will also benefit from these tips. 

Read on to reveal our ultimate male grooming guide… 

Multitask in the shower

As soon as your alarm bell rings or your funky notification on your mobile alerts you, it’s time to get out of bed and pop straight into the shower. A quick morning shower will help to awaken your senses and energise you to take on whatever the day throws your way.

Focus on using gentle products that are suitable for everyday use. It’s quite easy to forget or postpone for another time but taking care of your skin early on will help maintain its overall condition where positive results will show in later years. Don’t let a good routine slide because you think you’ll do it some other time. Chances are, that “some other time” will never come. 

Who says you can’t multitask? (and do it well!)

When it comes to showering, you can fill in a couple of extra beauty chores to get things done quicker whilst saving water. Try brushing your teeth or tackling body grooming whilst you wash to save time in the morning and to get things done all in one go.  

Set up your skincare routine

If you’re new to the humongous world of skin products, don’t fear. It can be a daunting task to find what will suit your skin and much of the process can be trial and error. What works for one person doesn’t necessarily mean that will work for another in the same way. 

Before you dive into making expensive and regrettable purchases, we’d recommend figuring out what type of skin you have in the first instance. 

Ask yourself the following if you’re finding this point difficult:

• Does your skin feel tight or is it flaky? 

• Are you showing signs of shiny skin or do your pores frequently clog up? 

Skincare routine and tips

If you have normal or dry skin, you could:

• Cleanse daily with a gentle cleanser, and immediately after any exercise

• Moisturise after cleansing with an enriching moisturiser specially formulated for dry skin

• Scrub your face once a week to remove the build-up of excess dirt and impurities 

If you have oily skin, you could:

• Cleanse at twice a day with a formulated cleanser, and immediately after exercise

• Moisturise after cleansing with a non-oily moisturiser

• Scrub your face twice a week to exfoliate skin

Bonus tip: Don’t forget to use products that contain SPF to protect your skin from sun damage.

Take care of your facial fuzz

To achieve a smoother shave, it’s a wise idea to do it straight after having a shower and cleansing your face. This helps to soften facial hair and open pores making the shaving process smoother. 

If you prefer a rugged beard, make sure you trim and shape regularly to keep you looking sharp. Alternatively, you can ask your barber to shape and style it for you. Beard oils and products are helpful and can maintain your facial hair, keeping it looking on top form!

Nourish your eyes

Your eyes need TLC because they work super hard for you. It’s worth adding an eye serum to your men’s skincare kit to help keep the delicate skin around the eyes moisturised.  

Don’t forget your hair! 

Your hair should be a part of your skincare routine too so don’t neglect it. Get yourself booked in for regular trims to keep your hair in good shape.

Look out for a shampoo that suits your hair type. Again, does your hair tend to be on the dry side? Do you suffer from dandruff? Does it get greasy very quickly? Opt for a shampoo that fits well with your hair needs. Shampoos containing niacin help to increase blood flow to the scalp, helping to keep your follicles healthy. 

You’ll also want to condition your hair regularly too, particularly if you have long hair, to help replenish lost moisture. Conditioner helps smoothen every single hair to support your hair’s health. 

These easy tips will streamline your grooming routine and have you looking your best all year round. Try them out and let us know your thoughts.

If you’re ready for a new opportunity, why not contact the Models Direct team today and discuss your modelling potential…click here to apply and find out more about male modelling!