What is the secret to modeling for clothing brands?
When you think about it, models are the ultimate “brand ambassadors” for any brand. We represent a brand in a unique way. We’re the face of a company, so we have a unique opportunity to make an impact on their clients.
We’re trusted. People look to us for guidance.
If you can master your “model image”, you can become a model for many companies. You could start a career with any company that has a need for your talents.
However, that doesn’t mean you’ll land EVERY job just by being skilled at what you do unfortunately. It’s a tough business out there.
So, how do you make it easy on yourself to become a model for clothing brands?
Latest Model Talk ➔
MODELING FOR CLOTHING BRANDS
The internet has changed the face of modeling as an industry. With the popularity of YouTube, Instagram, Tiktok and other social media platforms, models can build a following with the click of a button and earn hundreds of dollars a day.
However, the biggest challenge models face is getting noticed.
For a model, the first thing to think about is how you can best showcase your talents through the use of social media.
Clothing brands scout models through social media.
For example, today, luxury fashion brands like Burberry and Tommy Hilfiger have used social media to find models for their next campaign. Of course, high-end brands must book models through their agency.
Although, smaller clothing brands scout models that are freelancers and influencers through social media too.
The fashion world has changed over the past few decades, and so has the way brands choose to market their clothing.
One thing that hasn’t changed is the ability to promote yourself.
If your Instagram and TikTok accounts are full of modeling content like:
• Your most impressive editorial shots
• Runway images
• Behind the scenes at modeling jobs
• Engaging content at events, concerts or celebrations
That’s content that clothing stores are interested in seeing in order to determine whether you’re the right fit for their brand.
Personality pays the bills!
Clothing Brands That Need Models
Finding a fashion brand that needs models is tough at first.
There are several ways to find them, however. The most direct way is to contact local fashion brands directly. You can email them through their website or reach out to their social media channels and try to ask for a modeling opportunity that way.
Another option is joining casting call websites like:
• Backstagecasting.com
• ProjectCasting.com
Casting websites are a convenient way to submit your profile to many different casting notices. Be sure to research which casting websites are best for your professional aspirations.
How To Get Noticed
There are three major things that play a role in helping a model gain traction.
List that you’re a model in your bio if you don’t have a lot of modeling content on your feed. That way brands know that you have an interest in modeling clothes.
Post pictures of yourself in outfits that are appropriate for the brand you are trying to represent. This is incredibly valuable content for those who have never worked for a clothing brand before. You should have photos with multiple outfits, taken in a variety of angles. The more clothes you show off, the better.
One of THE biggest mistakes that you can make on your profile is failure to make your page public.
How is anyone able to notice your interest in modeling if your profile is private?!?!?!!?
You know when you’re wearing an outfit that makes you look and feel good, and you just HAVE to get a photo in it?
Don’t just post it on social media and move on.
Use #hashtags that are relevant.
TAG local clothing stores in your area.
See how many photographers, modeling scouts, and clothing stores will start following you.
Easy Photo Ideas That Get The Most Attention
FEMALE MODELS + Anyone Who Sees Fit
1. A black and white outfit. Fitted white top with groovy flared or straight leg black leggings, paired with a colored handbag, just about any shoe option and a neutral backdrop.
2. Loungewear sets are ideal. A cozy baggy set or a casual jogger lounge set will level up your social feed. It’s fashionable, comfortable and affordable.
Dress it up with sunglasses or keep it basic.
3. Dress for the season and don’t shy away from accessories! I love a long trench coat! Pair it with a turtleneck or a sweater with an oversized collar, slacks and loafers!
Whooooa, slow down fashion-isto LOL!
4) A look that is edgy and trendy. A graphic T-shirt of any band, faux leather bottoms and combat boots or thigh highs is chic and stylish!
MALE MODELS + Anyone Who Sees Fit
Fellas your outfit choices should be simple yet trendy too!
1. Graphic t-shirt, black or dark washed bottoms and boots to match!
2. A stylish button down that compliments your skin-tone, dress slacks and ANY sneaker choice you have will do.
3. Loungewear for men is trendy too. An oversized or fitted hoodie with cotton-knit shorts and Vans or Converse sneakers are essential.
4. Denim on denim is always a win! You can wear different tones or whatever suits your style. Again any sneaker will do, no big deal!
Be The Main Character Of Your Lifestyle
Stick with creating styles from clothes you already have. There’s no need to break the bank!
Wear clothes that suit your style, are comfortable, and fit you well.
Brands want to work with people who have a certain poise and confidence in themselves.
If you are able to include a few outfit changes in an Instagram reel or TikTok videos, then you are more than likely to get scouted by industry professionals.
Jump Start Your Career
WATCH: How To Create the ULTIMATE Modeling portfolio!
One thing to keep in mind is that, while you may not be able to get a spot on the cover of Vogue Magazine within a year of modeling, you can still get noticed by some of the biggest names in fashion let alone your local community.
Rihanna has been known to cast numerous social media influencers and models for her lingerie brand Savage X Fenty.
The marketing team at Good American Clothing, founded by Khloe Kardashian and Emma Grede hosts a public model search every year in collaboration with IMG models!
ANYONE can apply!
So how do you get yourself noticed by clothing brands?
Create A Killer Model Portfolio!
If you’re looking for e-commerce modeling jobs, you’ll need to show casting directors of clothing brands that you’re the right fit by creating a portfolio.
For some models posting candid images, reels and home digitals were enough to get them noticed.
For most, we have to take another route.
Every fashion model has a portfolio, and it’s often referred to as his or her “bible.” This is where you’ll showcase any magazine publications you have, style, poses and your most flattering features.
When you’re first starting out as a model, you should start by booking a test shoot. Use those images to gain attention from other photographers and casting directors.
After the hype fizzles, work on booking photoshoots in the nature of beauty, editorial, commercial, fitness, swimwear and even parts fashion modeling if you can!
You’ll get some good pictures and some mediocre ones back. Be sure to only pick the most impressive samples for your portfolio.
Benefits Of A Portfolio Website
A portfolio website is a tool to build your brand. To accomplish this, you need to create a website and a collection of images representing the many opportunities you’ve been a part of.
Start uploading the pictures you want to represent your modeling career. This can include industry related, behind the scenes content too!
Creating a modeling portfolio website can be a bit intimidating if you have no experience. If this is the case, you should consider hiring an expert to build your site for you.
Otherwise, there are many sites that allow you to build a portfolio just by dragging and dropping images onto a page.
A successful online portfolio is one that’s easy to navigate, attractive, and organized.
It’s not necessary to create a website. However, it’s a smart idea when you’re reaching out to brands through email, or when you attend an open call or casting call.
It’s the CONVENIENCE for me!
After your website is complete, keep your website current by regularly adding updated photos to it.
All freelance and signed models should have an online portfolio. It’s an easy way to gain exposure, as it allows a model to showcase their skills and abilities.
Beginner Modeling Jobs - Apply For A Ton!
Models work in a variety of ways. Some will act as their own management and apply through casting audition websites. Others will be connected through a network of talent through their modeling agency.
The best way to get a job is to apply for many!
When applying for casting calls, make sure you have your best work ready to show off.
Whether you’re in-person or submitting online.
Even if you can only provide digital polaroids let alone a portfolio with a hand full of images, that’s still better than nothing.
Be picky about the clientele you submit to, but don’t shy away from opportunities with reputable local brands because you don’t like the look of the style of their clothing.
Modeling isn’t about booking jobs that meet YOUR personal style. As a model, your job is to channel the vision of the brand.
So if the brand has a large engagement of followers and you see signed models working for them, reach out to the company through email or social media!
Applying for a modeling job with a less well-known brand can still help build up your social media presence. The more modeling content you upload, the more attraction you’ll get from other clothing brands.
Every model starts off slow.
Show that you can deliver quality content that is interesting and relevant to the audience and the job description.
Follow up with the brand after your casting by sending an email with links to your online presence.
Be persistent. Keep your resume up-to-date and add relevant work. If you are consistently working on projects and making contacts, you’ll always be prepared when an opportunity presents itself.
This Model Was Discovered On FaceBook!
Mika Santos is a Brazilian model who was discovered on Facebook.
Learn about her discovery on Models.com!
What Helps You Succeed?
Putting your image online and allowing friends and family to share your content. Simple selfies can grab the attention of clothing brands!
Fashion content being shared by the people on social media helps models and influencer increase their following, and catch the eyes of industry professionals.
WATCH: How To The PERFECT Modeling Digitals
Network With Other Models
Most models have no idea what they’re doing. They just do it, hoping for the best. While that’s not bad, it could leave you at a disadvantage in your modeling career.
Networking with other models helps with becoming a model when you have no money. Networking can lead to a model friend who can offer free advice about booking jobs, or working with photographers nearby.
You’ll be on your way to booking with the same clients.
Models who are able to leverage their own contacts are much more likely to find steady work.
Break out of your shell!
Contact photographers in your area.
Uh, HELLO…
Photographers photograph models for local clothing brands!!
Reach out to photographers that you previously worked with, and see if they know of any clothing brands that are constantly searching for models to market their clothing line.
How Long Should The Process Take?
It can take anywhere from two months to 6 months to start working with local clothing brands, and that’s if you’re SERIOUS about the job.
It’s a long, rocky road but it’s not impossible. A model needs a plan in motion.
Working with clothing brands quickly is achievable if you keep your portfolio updated and regularly update your social media platforms.
Clients want to see an active model, who can leverage their social media platforms to bring in more clients for the brand.
Again, your social media following doesn’t have to be in the thousands. My follower count was just 1,000 when I booked an influencer job for the clothing brand Vardagen.
You just need to stay consistent, build your online presence and clothing brands will be extremely interested in working with you!
Question
What’s Your Ideal Clothing Brand To Work For?
Comment below, i’d love to know! <3
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Eres una modelo???