When you first start your journey as a model, you may find yourself bombarded with a slew of unfamiliar terms and lingo specific to the fashion industry. From runway shows to photoshoots, understanding the vocabulary used in the modeling world can help you navigate your career with confidence. In this guide, we will unpack some of the essential terms in the model fashion glossary to help you speak the language of the industry.
**Editorial Model:**
An editorial model is someone who primarily works in print media such as magazines, catalogs, and online publications. Editorial models are known for their ability to convey a message or tell a story through their poses and expressions.
**Commercial Model:**
Unlike editorial models, commercial models focus on advertising products and services in print and digital media. They are often seen in commercials, billboards, and advertisements for brands and companies.
**Runway Model:**
Runway models showcase clothing and accessories on the catwalk during fashion shows. They are known for their ability to walk confidently and effortlessly in high heels while showcasing the designer’s collection.
**Fitness Model:**
Fitness models promote health and wellness products through their physique. They are often featured in magazines, commercials, and social media campaigns promoting fitness and healthy living.
**Couture:**
Couture refers to high-end, custom-made clothing created by fashion designers. The term is often associated with luxury and craftsmanship, with garments that are meticulously crafted and tailored to fit a specific individual.
**Lookbook:**
A lookbook is a collection of photographs showcasing a designer’s latest collection or a model’s portfolio. Lookbooks are often used by designers, brands, and models to highlight their work and style to potential clients and customers.
**Portfolio:**
A model’s portfolio is a curated collection of their best and most diverse photos. It serves as a visual resume and showcases the model’s range, versatility, and experience to potential clients, agencies, and casting directors.
**Casting Call:**
A casting call is a notice posted by designers, agencies, or casting directors seeking models for fashion shows, photoshoots, or campaigns. Models are required to attend casting calls to be considered for opportunities in the industry.
**Photoshoot:**
A photoshoot is a professional photography session where models are photographed wearing clothing, accessories, or products for advertisements, editorials, or portfolios. Photoshoots may take place in studios, outdoor locations, or specialized sets.
**Run of Show:**
The run of show is the order in which models will walk on the runway during a fashion show. It includes details such as the garments to be worn, the music to be played, and the sequence of models for the show.
**Haute Couture:**
Haute couture is a term used to describe high-end fashion that is custom-made and tailored specifically to a client’s measurements. Haute couture pieces are crafted using the finest materials and techniques, resulting in luxurious and exclusive garments.
**Fitting:**
A fitting is a session where models try on the clothing they will wear for a photoshoot or fashion show. During fittings, designers and stylists make adjustments to ensure the garments fit the model perfectly and showcase the designer’s vision.
**Fashion Week:**
Fashion Week is a global event where designers showcase their latest collections to buyers, press, and industry professionals. Fashion Weeks take place in major cities such as New York, Paris, London, and Milan and set the trends for the upcoming season.
**Model Release:**
A model release is a legal document signed by the model granting permission for their likeness to be used in photos, videos, or advertisements. Model releases protect both models and photographers from legal issues related to the use of images.
**Booker/Agent:**
A booker or agent is a representative who manages a model’s career and negotiates bookings, contracts, and opportunities on their behalf. Bookers work closely with models, clients, and casting directors to secure modeling jobs and collaborations.
**Catwalk:**
The catwalk is a raised platform where models walk to showcase clothing and accessories during fashion shows. The catwalk is the focal point of a runway show, and models must confidently walk down the runway to highlight the designer’s collection.
As you navigate your modeling career, familiarizing yourself with these terms and lingo will help you communicate effectively with industry professionals and understand the expectations of different types of modeling opportunities. By unpacking the model fashion glossary, you can confidently pursue your modeling goals and showcase your talent in the ever-evolving world of fashion.
