Looking back not even a few decades, the demands for being a professional fashion model were rigorous and even more close-minded. Now those demands are being discarded in an almost urgent fashion as the agencies are opening their doors to people of all sizes, races, genders and looks. This change is more impactful than you might initially think, and here is why.
The Modelling industry has always had a massive influence over what is considered beautiful, along with the fashion industry and celebrity culture. These three pillars of industries work hand in hand, dictating us the guidelines and standards we feel obligated to follow if we want to feel accepted in today’s society. It has been this way for centuries. Despite the growing media awareness, it will most likely contribute to future beauty standards. However, beauty ideals are not what they used to be. This is partly thanks to the ever-popular social media that has enabled people of different looks and styles to represent themselves on a public platform. After having our eyes opened to this kind of inclusive representation, there is no way we are turning back. The industries took note of this and are quickly catching on.
For the past decade, the Modelling field has been expanding and especially the plus-size model domain has bloomed. This is a great start, but far from the inclusivity, it is heading towards. This past year has been a celebrated push towards progress as we see more diverse representation. Only a few months ago, history was made as the U.S. Vogue featured their first transgender model, Ariel Nicholson on the cover of the magazine’s “Generation America” -themed September issue along with eight other models. This issue celebrated models who are challenging the industry norm.
Not only are some of the world’s top agencies looking to widen their services with a more inclusive talent pool, but there has been a notable increase of new agencies who are bravely taking these antiquated guidelines and playing jump rope with that line. Representing those excluded from the industry for not having the “right look”. Well, there is not just one “right look” limiting who can work as a model in the fashion industry anymore, and to that, I say, “About time!”. These restrictive rules are being torn down. Women, men, transgender people, short, petite, curvy, traditionals, unconventionals, and even one quite photogenic snail named “Karel” listed in the New Aliens Agency site are all in demand. The ones who were once considered the outsiders of the industry are taking over, making their way to the top. So, if the Modelling industry dictates the rules and society follows, call me a sheep because this is one to follow.
