Petite modeling agencies cater for individuals who are small in height. There is a niche for models who are under 5’7″ with individuals who measure in at 5’4″ in some known cases. Of course, the runway and high fashion campaigns are mostly reserved for tall models yet swimwear photoshoots, body part modelling and catalogue work will not discriminate against height in the same way. Other stipulations are desired such as shape, skin complexion and personality. Modelling agencies who specialise in this specific niche will have the experience and know how to fully support your career.

Find a Model Agency

Firstly, it is important to identify a modelling agency that you trust completely and feel comfortable working with. Research into their work background and fashion industry connections to gain a true understanding of their respectability within the modelling industry. The establishment will work with petite clothing brands who cater for smaller figures such as Minuet Petite and Bomb Petite. They are always on the look out for new faces to recruit and find work.

Take the opportunity (if arises) to talk to other models who are represented by the establishment to gain an image of how the organisation operates. Ask as many questions as possible to put your mind at ease and feel assured that the model agency is trustworthy and will enhance your career further.

Do not just simply apply to the first modelling agency you find yet research into others and contact all the companies that you feel suitable to keep your options open. View all of the ones on your list by going to open calls to get a feel for the model agency and to make sure they are suited to you personally. The best place to start is in capital cities like London and Paris that are at the heart of the fashion industry. Remember that everyone has a different view of what is beautiful so do not be put off if you are rejected.

The modelling industry demands for you to be bold, confident and enthusiastic to stand out. If you do not hear back take into account that model agencies may not view all applications. They’re extremely busy. Keep up to date with agency news as they might advertise when they are looking for new faces.

What Are They Looking For?

Petite modeling agencies will seek new faces who are confident and dedicated to their career. A healthy, self assured and hard working model will impress experts over those who are awkward and timid. Do not let your height affect your presentation of yourself. There will most likely be models who are significantly taller yet considered petite. Therefore, ensure you stand with a strong posture to elongate your body rather than hunching or slouching, which appears uncomfortable and shy.

A model with a high self esteem who is proud of their figure will be noticed and recognised for their talent. It is much easier in female modelling for petite frames to succeed as they can wear heels in photoshoots. Model agencies are always on the look out for a new breed of model to shock the fashion industry. If you have the look that suits their vision who knows what could happen.

Make Sure That You Look After Yourself

Ensure that you present yourself in the best possible light. Exercise regularly, eat healthily and adopt a beauty regime that enhances your complexion. Aiming to abide by a workout plan, eating the correct foods and choosing suitable products will provide the confidence needed to succeed as a petite model.

• Find a workout that you enjoy and provides a toned physique. It is highly desirable for swimwear shoots that expose a lot of skin.
• Consume a diet that is nutritious and washed down with plenty of water. This will provide stamina, energy and clear, smooth skin.
• Fizzy drinks and sugary foods will provide a burst of enthusiasm. However, this will suddenly deflate after the effect has worn off.
• Use cosmetic products that comply with your skin type to ensure your complexion is silky smooth all over your body. Seek advice to avoid an allergic reaction when first using a new product.

Keep Positive

It is vital to have a positive personality. Although there is a market for petite models experts may still choose to hire taller individuals. Therefore, do not feel defeated or rejected yet demonstrate your resilience and character by standing with confidence. Act friendly and respectful to each contact and your persistence will pay off. Trust us!! We’re not saying it is easy. The modelling industry is known for its harsh ways but learning to stay strong will come with experience. Believe in yourself. You are beautiful, strong and unique.

Types of Work

As we mentioned there are petite clothing brands out there and even commercial giants that have a petite section. Take ASOS for example, they have a petite clothing range to appeal to their target audience. The online giant will require petite models to showcase their designs. It’s important that the waistline sits in the right place on a smaller frame. Therefore, they will hold photoshoots regularly to showcase their newest creations. The online retailer appreciate that there are many different sizes, heights and body shapes and wish to cater for this. ASOS also have a tall, plus-size and maternity department that is solely dedicated to this target audience.

It is not unheard of that petite models have found success in the high fashion industry. The likes of Kate Moss who measures at 5ft6 is recognised as one of the most successful supermodels of all time. She does not fit the stereotypical requirements of a high fashion model yet her career has been incredible.

Over the years Kate has modelled for Chanel, Versace and appeared on the cover of Vogue countless times. It just goes to show that if an influential person in the modelling industry believes for you to be beautiful and is willing to make a bold move who knows what could happen. One minute you could be shopping in Urban Outfitters, London and the next you could be walking in Paris Fashion Week, on location in India or modelling for Adidas. Anything is possible but it doesn’t guarantee that it will happen, so give it your best shot but don’t pin all your hopes on one dream. Have a backup plan.