Are you aspiring to be a model? Then, I’m sure you at least know that models and potential clients interact through modeling agencies. A modeling agency will usually represent big names, so it is safe to sign with one. Employment agencies match clients with models while charging a commission to both the clients and the models.
Actually, the modeling agencies that represent models can collect up to 20% commission since they are considered independent contractors. Models are also sometimes responsible for their business expenses, such as headshots or even flights.
You might think the average working model lives the high life like Gigi Hadid or Kendall Jenner, but you’re wrong. The modeling world is not as glamorous as we see it from the outside. The fashion industry demands a lot from you and not only your looks. Agencies are also charged a similar percentage by their clients.
It’s an infamously brutal industry to break into, but each agency requires something slightly different. For instance, the height requirement for being a model typically ranges between 5 ft. 7 inches, like Ashley Graham. But of course, there are exceptions like Lily-Rose Depp, who is just 5 ft.
It wouldn’t be wrong if I suggest you consider modeling agencies to be employment agencies for most models. If you are new in this field or a new model in the U.S., choosing the right Modeling Agency from the clutter of New York Modeling Agencies is a crucial step. So, here I’ve curated a list of the top 7 Modeling agencies. But before looking forward to the New York City full modeling agencies list, ask yourself if you are a part of the aspiring models’ group- ‘do you have what the modeling industry demands?’
New York City is considered to be one of the most intense and competitive modeling cities. To make your modeling dreams come true, I recommend you choose from one of these NYC modeling agencies.
1. Elite Model World
There’s no doubt about it from the name. With over 37 years of experience, it was responsible for developing some of the most influential names in the fashion industry. Various supermodels were introduced to the world by this modeling agency, such as Cindy Crawford and Linda Evangelista, and the list continues.
According to Vogue Business, the company announced a new digital division focusing on partnering with talent’s social media networks by creating content in-house for clients.
Traditionally models did not have a mechanism for growing their careers. Now, you have the unique opportunity to help your talent and help shift the power dynamic.
Julia Hart, CEO of Elite World
If you’re already famous on Instagram, you might have a chance to be represented by Elite, which manages a global network of agencies that can better suit your skills and needs.
2. Ford Models
Another New York City-based international modeling agency I want to tell you about is the Ford Modeling Agency. It was founded in 1941 by Eileen Ford and her husband Gerard W. Ford in 1946. It is composed of two locations in the country.
Those in the currency business can’t imagine how long this company’s been in the industry since it’s centered on money. It has one of the most impressive rosters of editorial, runway, and advertising models, as well as the experience that comes with age.
Among the models and celebrities, the agency has represented a variety of ethnicities and backgrounds. It has invited over 60,000 hopefuls from around the world each year to participate in the Ford Supermodel of the World Contest since 1980.
V/V Man Ford Model Search occurs annually, and the two Visionaire publications are published today in memory of the Contest. And yeah, if you have some extra inches, this is one of the best options for you. It’s one of the best New York Model Management for plus-sized models.
3. Next Model Management
Among the many other best Modeling Agencies is Next Model Management. A model and talent agency founded in 1989 by Faith Kates and Joel Wilkenfeld, Next Management focuses on casting and models. Next has offices in London, Los Angeles, Miami, Milan, and Paris, and its headquarters is in NYC.
Next Management, a major model management agency, represents famous faces like Alexa Chung and Travis Scott. It also organizes online contests, such as the “Girlfriend Model Search,” with other media and talent agencies, as well as representing models and negotiating contracts with fashion magazines.
4. New York Model Management
While this New York agency lacks age, it compensates for this by offering a unique perspective and real-world experience. Former Ford Models vice president Marion Smith, spent years with the legendary model at Ford Models before starting his firm.
New York Model Management shares a parent company with Los Angeles Fashion Models, which has given rise to fresh faces such as Tatiana, Carol S., and Catrina Stella. This modeling employment agency offers freelance modeling opportunities for female models, male models, and kids.
5. Women Management
This New York Modeling Agency has offices in NYC. Women International Agency Chain comprises two sisters Modeling Agencies established by Paul Rowlands in 1988, Supreme Management and Women 360 Management, besides the Women International Agency Chain.
Fashion talent management company Women Management, is one of the most reputable and influential in the industry today. They are among the few companies promoting inclusiveness, diversity, and empowerment. I must say, you will be lucky if you get a chance to work with them.
Their personnel does everything to provide their talent with good management and clients with outstanding service. Regardless of the industry, women’s approach always includes creativity, technology, and business development aligned with respect, trust, humanity, ethical behavior, and social responsibility.
Models for Women is a well-researched organization that never gives up on finding new and effective ways to better adapt to and capitalize on the modeling world’s ever-changing landscape while elevating its image and balancing financial success.
Many outstanding female fashion designers were represented in the show, such as Mariacarla Boscono, Isabeli Fontana, Hanne Gaby, Josephine Le Tutor, Lais Ribeiro, Coco Rocha, and Iris Strubegger.
As a pioneer in developing the next generation of modeling stars, Women Management represents Valerie Scherzinger, Sacha Quenby, Madeleine Fisher, Penelope Ternes, Maike Inga, and Maryel Uchida, to name just a few.
Elite World Group, the global leader in talent management, groups Women Management with its sister outlets.
6. IMG Models
Hey, I have again got the one for plus-sized models. Yeah! IMG is considered to be one of the best Modeling Agencies for them.
Founded in 1987, IMG is another industry heavyweight with offices worldwide. Its offices are in London, Paris, LA, Milan, and Sydney. Its headquarters are in NYC.
They have also represented Kate Moss and Liya Kebede. It features current-day top models, such as Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Karlie Kloss, and Gigi Hadid, and editorial darlings like Jacquelyn Jablonski.
7. Wilhelmina Models
A collection of multimillion-dollar investments by Dutch-American model Wilhelmina Cooper, her husband Victor Bruce Cooper, and minority investors Bill Weinberg and Fran Rothchild led to the creation of Wilhelmina International Inc. in 1967.
Model Management Associates Corporation is currently headquartered in Massachusetts and operates as one of the oldest and largest full-service model management companies globally. Wilhelmina Cooper, a leading Dutch model who founded the agency in 1967, knew everything there is to know about modeling, so it’s no surprise this agency was founded.
The brand is now known for representing notable fitness models like Coco Rocha and Hugo Boss from that era and fitness models with plus-size clothing.
There are not so many modeling agencies that promote models with plus size. It’s among the best modeling agencies with plus-sized models.
8. DNA Models
DNA Models is another York model management modeling agency that contributes to the global fashion industry market. This agency deals with international luxury talent in fashion and entertainment. It was founded in 1993 by Jerome and David Bonnouvrier, the driving force behind the success of this modeling agency. Like the other two best agencies in New York model management, this provides many services and opportunities for aspiring models to build successful careers.
DNA Models has strong connections with top brands, designers, and photographers, which open new doors for the models. I’ll tell you some of the best models of this agency- Stella Tennant, Doutzen Kroes, Linda Evangelista, Saskia De Brauw, Dree Hemingway, and many more. DNA Models has offices in New York, Los Angeles, and many other major cities. This agency is one of the best fashion talent agencies, representing many models, including print and runway models, artists, and actors.
Its professionals work closely with high-fashion publications such as Harper’s Bazar, American Vogue, French Vogue and V magazines. In addition, DNA Model Management works for the well-being and safety of the models. It ensures no false representatives are claiming to be agents or model recruiters.
How to Get Casting Calls? You Must Know This
The top modeling agencies in NYC, like Elite, IMG, Ford, and others, do more than manage these global talents—they also frequently discover them. Coco Rocha was spotted at an Irish dance competition, while Karlie Kloss was found at a mall.
Founded by Moss in the 1970s, the masses quickly recognized them as celebrities. Others have found the old-fashioned way: by sending photos, measurements, and a video of how beautiful they are. You must check this video below:
Fashion might be New York’s top-selling product, and it’s called the world’s fashion capital for a reason, but it’s highly competitive. Portfolios are essential for getting started. Your potential clients will see how you look on camera with a portfolio of your images.
Professional images should be incorporated into your portfolio. If you cannot afford this, a friend may lend you a camera. Portfolios allow you to show off how good you look in your photos or images.
If you can’t find a photographer who suits you, agents can help you find one. Contact an agent, and they will get the jobs done, as they have worked in this field for many years. Agents can make your work easy as they are the ones who help new faces prepare a portfolio and find jobs.
Last Updated on by Sathi Chakraborty, MSc Biology
