Model (person)

A model is a person who uses their body to represent someone else's body or an artistic imagination.

This role can involve displaying commercial products like fashion clothing in shows. It also includes serving as an artist's model to help with the creative process. Models might use specific body parts to represent potential customers. For example, a woman modeling shoes uses her foot to show how they look. This is different from acting or dancing because personal opinions are not usually expressed. Instead, a model's reputation and image are considered critical to their success.

There are several distinct types of modeling used in different industries. Fine art modeling involves posing for visual artists like painters or sculptors. These models provide a reference or inspiration for works involving the human figure. Fashion modeling is another major type, often seen in magazines and on television. Other categories include glamour, fitness, and body-part promotional modeling. Fitness models might pose with equipment to demonstrate strength.

Modeling appears in many media formats, including books, films, newspapers, and the Internet.

Historically, fashion was displayed using miniature dolls in 14th-century Europe. This allowed royal clients to see clothes before they were made in human size. The profession of modeling as a formal job began in 1853. Charles Frederick Worth, known as the "father of haute couture," established this practice. He asked his wife, Marie Vernet Worth, to model his designs for clients. These women were called "house models." In Parisian fashion houses, they were often referred to as mannequins.

The industry changed significantly with the development of fashion photography. Models remained mostly anonymous and poorly paid until the late 1940s. This changed when the first three supermodels, Barbara Goalen, Bettina Graziani, and Lisa Fonssagrives, emerged. Fonssagrives appeared on over 200 Vogue covers, which helped shape model careers. In 1946, Eileen and Gerard Ford established Ford Models in New York. This became one of the oldest modeling agencies in the world.

In the 1960s, the industry became more organized through modeling agencies. In Europe, some agencies acted as secretarial services to handle bookings. In Italy, the industry faced challenges with labor laws and visas. Many agencies eventually formed worldwide chains to manage global work. By the late 1960s, London became a leading market for modeling. Models like Twiggy became household names during this era. Twiggy was named "The Face of '66" at just 16 years old.

The 1970s and 1980s brought massive growth and new standards. Agencies became more business-minded and began paying for a model's publicity. In 1974, Beverly Johnson became the first Black woman on the cover of U.S. Vogue.

During the 1980s, certain models were called "million dollar faces" by Life magazine. These models negotiated lucrative and exclusive deals with large cosmetics companies. For instance, Margaux Hemingway signed a million-dollar contract with Fabergé in 1975. Top models like Patti Hansen earned hundreds of thousands of dollars annually.

Modeling is a global system that connects art, commerce, and media. Agencies like Ford and Elite often competed in "model wars" for top talent. This competition drove the industry toward more professional management and scouting. Agencies began scouting in diverse locations, such as Brazil, to find new faces. Today, modeling remains a complex field involving many different types of skill and representation. It continues to influence how products and art are presented to the world.