Becoming a model is still the dream of many people, but what do you need to make it a successful model today? In the past, the answer was much more straightforward – endless legs and a forceful attitude during the super-era of the 1990s, a waif figure and a mysterious demeanor in the 2000s.

But in today's scenario, the lines between model, influencer and activist have blurred, so what is a model now?

In this age of social activism, thanks to the reach of social media, models now have the means to express their passion and individuality, stand up and fight for their faith. Watch American model Cameron Russell's stance against sexual harassment. Her #MyJobShouldNotIncludeAbuse hashtag, and British model Adwoa Aboah's Gurls Talk website, which gives young girls a safe space to discuss issues such as mental health and sexuality.

Vogue talks to Hannah Jovitt, the head of the women's division at Model 1, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, and rising star Alexina Graham to find out what the new rules of modeling are, and how to be an aspiring model. Be. You can make your dreams come true.

Where To Start If You Want To Be A Model?

Jowitt recommends taking a look at the Association of British Fashion Model Agents, which is officially affiliated with the British Fashion Council. "There you'll find a list of registered agencies and a lot of information about becoming a model," she says.

Once you've identified a few agencies you love (and think you have the right look), the next step is to book a trip to London and meet with them. "All good agencies have 'walk-ins' where you turn in and are seen by a booker," Jovitt says. "You will be given time and advice and, potentially, the opportunity to work with that agency."

If you get an offer, congratulations! But don't just accept what comes first. "All agencies have a different vibe, so look for something rather than the first to accept an offer," Jovitt advises.

Be wary of any agency that wants to charge you. “There are a lot of conflicting agencies out there that charge you a fee to join and charge you money for an unnecessary portfolio that you will never find work for,” Jovitt says. "If you visit a few different agencies and, unfortunately, they say no, it's better to pursue another career than keep searching."

What Are Agencies Looking For In A Model Today?

"There are clear requirements for size and shape to be a model, but that's not all it takes to be tall, bright, and look good," says Jovitt, who cites other characteristics you'll need. you want to make it. in industry. "Models must be hard-working, pleasant to be around, flexible, sociable, and able to perform at the drop of a hat. They may not have an 'off' day when they are booked on a shoot !"

What Are The Job Opportunities For Models Today?

The pervasiveness of the Internet and the rise of social media have ushered in a new breed of model. "Now we have a lot younger girls than before, and they make a lot of money!" Jowitt says. "Historically, little girls have always been pretty girls, but with the rise of e-commerce they have become much more. There is a lot of work to be done in that area as well."

As e-commerce modeling sets new standards, editorial booking is also becoming more diverse, albeit at a much slower pace. "The size and shape of models in editorial and runway shows haven't seen a huge change, although designers are now including curvier girls and older women in their shows, which is great," says Jovitt. "The rise of the influencer has given models another string to their bow. If a model has a good Instagram account and more followers, it certainly affects the final choice of the customer."

What Salary Can A Model Expect?

While modeling can be very financially rewarding, Linda Evangelista's famous 1990 quote, "We don't wake up for less than $10,000 a day," would not be the reality of most models, as Graham can attest.

"I started at 18 and made very little money for five years," she says. “I didn't start earning until my sixth year; I was ready to give up." So what does she attribute her success to? "Hard work, believing in myself and not giving up - as well as agents who believe in me - is what I do with my Where I am today in my career. , I'm here."

What Can Aspiring Models Do To Help Them Succeed?

 Jovit says that having a real understanding of the industry is absolutely essential. “Editorials, photographers and creatives and also look at other models: how they move, act and move,” she says.

"Aspiring Models Click Here for More Information on the Modeling Profession."