American Eagle has been a fixture of youth fashion for decades. Founded in 1977 in Pittsburgh, the brand built its reputation on relaxed denim, easy basics, and an American aesthetic.
American Eagle is now a global retailer with branches in hundreds of locations, as well as an impressive 3.8 million followers on Instagram.
For anyone looking to start their modelling career, a gig posing for American Eagle could be a vital step. Its campaigns regularly feature fresh faces alongside celebrities and influencers, so don’t be put off if you have only limited experience.
If you want to become an American Eagle model, here’s everything you need to know.
JUMP TO
Piotr Swat/Shutterstock
The American Eagle model aesthetic is grounded in authenticity. The brand’s campaigns highlight natural energy, relaxed styling, and an approachable look created to appeal to its Gen Z audience.
American Eagle collaborates with a range of models, celebrities, and creators, from athletes and musicians to everyday people. Previous faces of the brand include model and social creator Désiré Mia, models Abigael Boivin and Charles Oduro, and actor Sydney Sweeney.
The brand’s campaigns have featured a wide range of body types and backgrounds, such as using an unretouched Iska Lawrence in its campaigns for Aerie, its underwear offshoot.
If you want American Eagle modelling jobs, remember that your personality is just as important as your appearance. On casting Sydney Sweeney, executive creative director Jennifer Foyle said: “She brings the allure, and we add the flawless wardrobe for the winning combo of ease, attitude, and a little mischief.”
melissamn/Shutterstock
There isn’t a direct American Eagle model application form. Modelling for American Eagle is similar to any brand modelling: Talent is usually cast through established modelling agencies and casting directors.
That means the most common route to becoming an American Eagle model is to first secure agency representation. Agencies with strong commercial and lifestyle divisions often work with brands in the same category as American Eagle, including Abercrombie & Fitch, Hollister, and Jack Wills. Relevant UK agencies include Boss Model Management and Milk Model Management. Once signed, your booker can submit you for castings for denim campaigns, seasonal lookbooks, and social media shoots.
American Eagle also works with influencers and social-first talent such as Désiré Mia. Building an online presence that matches the American Eagle aesthetic may help you get noticed.
If you’d be comfortable being an Aerie model, posing in the brand’s lingerie, you don’t even have to be an influencer with tonnes of followers. Tag @aerie in your post and you may be lucky enough for a brand representative to get in touch right in your comments. Just make sure you respond quickly with #YesAE.
Whichever option suits you best, keep an eye on the brand’s social channels and official blog, and look out for online castings for American Eagle modelling jobs.
1. Research everything American Eagle.
Explore American Eagle’s website, blog, and social channels to understand its denim-focused products, marketing strategy, and casual aesthetic. That will help you be prepared for castings and building your portfolio.
2. Study past talent.
Look at the models, influencers, and celebrities who appear in American Eagle shoots to understand the type of energy and personality the brand promotes. Work out how to authentically bring that into your personal brand.
3. Develop a relaxed modelling style.
Modelling for American Eagle is all about natural movement and authenticity. Practise posing and expressions that feel confident but not overly polished. It will help ensure that you won’t be caught off guard when you get in front of the camera.
4. Curate your social media presence.
Aligning your online presence with American Eagle’s ethos and aesthetic can give you an advantage. Create an online profile that showcases your personality and personal style. Use images that complement the American Eagle style, and make sure to tag the brand’s socials.
5. Build an American Eagle–inspired portfolio.
Work with photographers and stylists on casual denim or streetwear TFP shoots that resemble American Eagle campaigns. The images can strengthen your modelling portfolio to make you seem like the ideal candidate.
6. Apply to reputable modelling agencies.
Research agencies that represent commercial or lifestyle models who work with high-street fashion brands like American Eagle and its competitors. Follow their submission guidelines carefully before you apply.
7. Network within the industry.
Connect with photographers, stylists, and creatives who shoot retail campaigns and love the American Eagle look and feel. You never know who you may meet and who may help you get on the company’s radar.
8. Check for casting calls.
Keep an eye out for American Eagle modelling jobs on casting sites, agency newsletters, and social media. If you’re with an agency, push them to get you castings for jobs that feel aligned with American Eagle, if that’s your end goal.
9. Stay confident and consistent.
Becoming an American Eagle model rarely happens overnight. Keep improving your portfolio, building connections, and showing up for opportunities whenever they appear. Individuality, freedom, and difference is what the brand stands for, according to its Instagram page, so embody those ideas and you’ll be on the right track.