Modelling height requirements are dependent on the type of modelling you’re getting into. For some areas, they’re fairly inflexible, and modelling height requirements are set in stone. In other cases, times are changing, and men and women of all heights are starting to be used.

What Are The Standard Modelling Requirements?

The British Association of Model Agents (AMA) states that female fashion models and editorial models should measure between 5’8 and to 5’11 and their bust, waist and hips should be 34″-24″-34.” They should have a slim, slender and toned figure. Anything outside of these measurements will be classed as plus size in high fashion. Males models who work in these areas tend to be 5’11 to 6’2.

Whilst there are variations on this in some instances, this is really the minimum you’d need in order to be selected for these kind of roles or to be able to work with top agencies. You’ll notice that you can be TOO tall – again, some people are taller than these expectations, but there tends to be a very rigid definition of what’s acceptable on catwalks!

The exceptions are not the rule, and are often only dependent on those who really stand out and shine!

What Are Some Other Modelling Height Requirements?

It’s a common misconception that plus sized models tend to be shorter. This often isn’t the case, and women who do this form of modelling tend to also be at least 5’8. Again, there are sometimes exceptions, but these are the typical standards because they prefer conformity in this respect on the catwalks.

Commercial models tend to use different modelling height requirements. Often, women are expected to be 5’6 to 5’11, and men 5’9 to 6’2. This tends to be less strict.

Petite models are increasingly common, typically involving women 5’4 and below. Women of 5’5 would be considered on a case by case basis, but sadly might be too short for ‘normal’ modelling, and a little too tall to be considered petite, depending on what else she can offer. Such is the nature of the business at times, sadly!

Has your height ever been an issue? Let us know!