Height, Age, and Measurement Requirements of Modeling.
So exactly how tall do you need to be to become a successful model? Likewise, how old does one need to be? What kind of body type is required? These are all important questions one will need to ask themselves if they are going to pursue modeling as a hobby or furthermore, a career. The ranges that will be specified are typical client requirements. That doesn’t mean you cannot succeed if you do not fit them. It also depends on which type of modeling you are pursuing. Keep these as guidelines and remember, there are always exceptions.
Determine Your Measurements
Taking the time to accurately determine ALL of your measurements is vital in the modeling industry.
Basic measurements are written as a series of 3 numbers, separated by hyphens: Bust-Waist-Hips, IN THAT ORDER.
“34-24-35” indicates Bust is a 34, Waist is a 24, and Hips are a 35.
How To Take Your Measurements
Start with a soft, flexible measuring tape- the kind you would use for a sewing project, NOT the sturdy kind that your dad would use for a house project.
It is preferable (and easier) to have somebody else take your measurements, but not a requirement.
BUST
Place the measuring tape under your armpits; arms should rest at your sides. Next, measure around the shoulder blades and the fullest part of your breast. The number showing is your “bust measurement.”
Unless specifically asked to include Cup size in your Bust-Waist-Hip measurement, it should be left out; it generally serves as its own separate ‘measurement’.
To determine your cup size, wear a comfortable bra and follow these steps:
- Measure around your rib cage, just below your breasts. If the number is less than 33”, add “5” to your number, then record this figure. If your number is more than 33”, you will need to add “3” to your number. Record this figure. (This is your band size)
- Measure around the fullest part of your breasts. Record this number. (This is your cup size)
- Subtract the number from “Step 2 (Cup Size)” by the number you recorded from “Step 1 (Band Size)”. Now, record this new number.
- Finally, you can determine your bra size by using the following chart:
If the number you determined during step 3 is:
Less than 1/2″ larger than measurement #2, then your bra size is “AA”.
1″ larger than measurement #2, then your bra size is “A”.
2″ larger than measurement #2, then your bra size is “B”.
3″ larger than measurement #2, then your bra size is “C”.
4″ larger than measurement #2, then your bra size is “D”.
5″ larger than measurement #2, then your bra size is “DD” or “E”.
6″ larger than measurement #2, then your bra size is “DDD” or “F”.
WAIST
Locate the slimmest part of your natural waistline, and measure. The number showing is your “waist measurement.”
HIPS
DO NOT measure your hip bone. Instead, locate the fullest part of your butt and measure around this. This measurement will serve as your “hip measurement.”
Record Your Measurements
In addition to determining your measurements, it is equally important to RECORD your measurements as you go along. You are of no help to any client if you tell them, “I took my measurements once… but I don’t remember what they were.”
UPDATE your measurements every 6 months at a minimum- although every 3 months is ideal. Clients need accurate stats from any potential model. Don’t waste their time. It will only benefit you in the long run.
DO NOT LIE about your measurements. There is no benefit whatsoever in giving “embellished” , “falsified” measurements in the first place; on top of which, you will get caught. Garments need to fit properly to look good on a model. AS A MODEL YOU REPRESENT THE PRODUCT. PHOTOS ARE TAKEN FOR THE PRODUCT TO LOOK GOOD.
So, please FILL IN YOUR MEASUREMENTS accurately in the blank fields. They really are there for a reason- and yes, they really will remain blank unless you fill them out. The “stats section” appears on your public profile at all times; filled out or empty, like it or not- it will always be displayed to the world on your portfolio, comp cards, social profiles… That’s what it means to be a model.
Be as thorough as possible when it comes to your online profiles- this is a direct reflection upon you, and it is the message you are choosing to send to the world.
Many models ignore this simple step; thus many models GET ignored (for wonderful opportunities) as a direct result. Don’t let this happen to you!