Expert: Peter Messaline - 12/22/2008

Question
I recently applied for Canada's next top model. I'm 21
years old and am hoping to get into fashion modeling.
Whilst I have a very edgy face which I'd consider a bit
indie-fashion or editorial, I am worried that my body is
never going to be the right size for it. I am a shapy 135
lbs and losing weight gradually through fitness routine. I
am hoping to be 120 pounds and I don't expect or want want
to go below 120 lbs as I think that would be unhealthy. I
am 5'7.5 feet tall. Is that an alright weight for fashion
and my height?

I am curious about the requirements and if an edgy face can
cut it. I want to be a healthy model. I had problems with
an eating disorder in the past and I've decided this would
be best for me.

Answer
You should research the realities near where you are living, but here is some general advice
from http://www.soyouwanna.com/site/syws/model/model.html
which is pretty close to my own impression from first-hand research:
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   * You should be somewhere between 15 and 22 years old, though probably closer to fifteen. Models don't have careers that last as long as say, doctors, so agencies tend to want to invest their time in someone young.

   * You should be tall, long-legged, and lean. The minimum height is usually about 5'8", and average weight for a model is 108-125 lbs. These characteristics are partly aesthetic and partly practical: this type of frame looks good on the runway and in front of the camera (which, they say, adds 15 pounds); and a somewhat scrawny build drapes clothing nicely and ensures a good fit in the standard wardrobe. There are always exceptions to the rule, of course - Kate Moss is 5'7" and Gabrielle Reece is a giant 6'3" - but, in general, the closer you are to the industry norm, the better your chances.
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You are to be praised for dealing with your eating disorder, but perhaps you would do better as a trainer,aesthetician, coach or class leader. Lok into working at such an organisation before starting up by yourself.
Modelling is not an easy or a profitable career for very many. Even the most reputable agencies know how much their clients want to succeed, and will take terrible advantage of them. Hours can be killingly long and fees are routinely delayed by months.

Read the article above, do your own internet search.
Ignore the pages from most agencies, which are often wildly optimistic, verging on scamming would-be clients, because they actually live on registration and  promo fees.

Be well
Stay fit.

Peter M