Unfortunately modelling is not a career that everybody can embark on. There tends to be strict criteria in place and if you don’t fit the bill you will find it much, much more difficult to make it in the industry. One of the most stringent criteria which most people are aware of is in relation to height. It is definitely a case of the taller the better in the world of modelling. In fact, a lot of brands won’t book models who are shorter than 5’8”. Keeping that in mind, let’s dig deeper and discover more about the relationship between modelling and height…

Firstly, it is imperative to be aware of the fact that there are no ‘rules’ in place per say in the modelling industry. It is merely a trend that has emerged in the world of catwalk specifically. Yet this does not mean that if you are short you have absolutely no chance. There are several famous models who are shorter than 5’8”. Kate Moss is probably the most famous example. The English model is 5’6”. Devon Aoki is another example of a model who has had a massive career on the runway despite being only 5’4”. You also have America’s Next Top Model winner Eva Pigford (5’5”), Liberty Ross (5’6”), Audrey Marnay (5’6”) and Selita Ebanks (5’7”). Thus, it is not impossible. However, you will definitely have a tough challenge on your hands if you want to become a runway model and you are shorter than 5’8”. You need to stand out from the crowd. You’ve got to have something that the brand is going to want – something that makes them overlook your height. 

Nevertheless, there are other areas of modelling which are not as strict as catwalk modelling is in terms of height and size. For instance, commercial modelling is a lot more accepting of females of various shapes and heights. Therefore, this is something you may want to consider. There are many commercial models who are around 5’6” in height. After all, there is the petite industry to bear in mind. However, you still find it a struggle if you are 5’4” or shorter. 

A lot of the time you will find that the agency itself has a requirement regarding the minimum height in order to sign up to them. If you are a model of short height it is extremely important to choose your agency with care. Of course you need to make sure you are going to be accepted. Nevertheless, you also need to make sure they are going to help you get jobs even though you are technically going to be starting at a disadvantage. Look at forums and read information left by other models of a short height. They will recommend different agencies to you and alike. After all, there will be those agencies who know which brands are more accepting of shorter models and alike.

Unfortunately the relationship between height and modelling has seen many aspiring models be rejected for certain jobs, especially in the world of catwalk. However, if you know the challenge that lies ahead you will be better equipped to deal with it and there is every chance you can break the mould.