Well, there are several reasons why it always seems that tall models rule the fashion world.  When asking ourselves why do models have to be so tall, we’re responding to a pretty blatant tradition that exists across the fashion world, whether it’s catwalks, catalogues or high fashion shoots.

For women, the industry standard for height requirements tends to be 5’8 and above, and for men, fashion models are usually between 5’11 and 6’2. Of course, these are just guidelines as shorter models – petite models, in fashion industry terms – do exist and enjoy a successful career. Models measuring 5’3″ and 5’4″ do get signed by agencies recognised in the industry.

So Why Do Models Have to Be Tall?

Height has always been synonymous with stature. A taller stature offers a commanding presence at runway shows, and so this is ideal for designers who want their work to be noticed. Longer legs, a tiny waist and relatively small breasts have become the industry standard for runway models. All designers stick to the same measurements so they can use the same models and they fit every dress. Limiting the variables enables them to bring the designs to market much quicker.

Conversely, you could argue that it’s actually the opposite – due to the uniform nature of catwalks with people of a set aesthetic, it allows people to focus more on the fashion itself, which the designers would like! Commercial models are a little less strict with their height standards but still usually demand a taller physique only hiring petite women or short people for clothing lines who cater for this niche.

It’s important to face the common reasons why top designers choose tall models. Some clothes simply fit better on taller women; almost as though those women are hangers. Of course, it’s reactionary. The designers favour tall women, and so they design with them in mind. The cut of the clothing is supposed to fit women of taller stature because that’s what they prefer and therefore how the garments are made, and so it makes sense that the clothing be made to appear as tailored to one body type as possible.

On clothes that are designed for women with longer bodies, it’s better to use taller models for a number of reasons. Firstly, such items of clothing simply sit better on these women. They don’t crease or bunch up, and they flow as naturally as the creatives who designed them intended.

Are Times Changing?

In the past, being taller was often a symbol of wealth, beauty and success. However, as the case may be in 2016, people of all appearances are finding success, which may change the model industry from within. We now have a broader idea of what makes someone good looking.

For now, however, tall male and female models are supposed to make the clothes look as good as possible, and a lot of designers simply believe that the best looking men and women are taller because they’re more poised and slim, and so their clothes look better. Obviously though, attitudes are changing, and more and more ‘types’ of model are being used. They can of course start making their clothes for people of all heights, which would eradicate some issues!

Diversity in the Modelling Industry

The fashion industry is welcoming diversity with plus size models finding their place. Shorter people are also following in Kate Moss’ foot steps and not letting the towering height requirements stop them from living their dream. We had become so used to seeing the stereotypical image of slim, tall models grace the magazines and runway shows. It became the norm with some figures looking dangerously thin.

Many plus size models turned activists are fighting for a fashion industry that champions all body types, shapes and sizes. Many designers and magazines are amongst the supporters with the likes of Vogue, Glamour and Elle publishing both plus size and short models alongside tall people. Modelling agencies are also reacting as they wish to please the industry professionals with a selection of male and female models that they can work with. It is a slow process but there have been many breakthroughs in the top model stereotype. Take Ashley Graham for example. She is classed as a plus size model – a title that many disagree with – yet she fights for body positivity. She is making changes for new models to follow.

So, in 20 years, we may not query why models are tall. It might simply revert to why they have to be beautiful. Unfortunately, that one’s never going to change (although our ideas of what defines beauty might).