If you’ve ever fantasised about being a model but thought you were too short to walk the runway or land a campaign, you’re not alone. The fashion industry has long championed taller models, but there’s still a way in if you’re below the industry height standard of 5 feet, 8 inches.
Petite modelling offers a genuine alternative for shorter women, with opportunities across commercial, beauty, e-commerce, and parts modelling. “Forget about being too short to model and focus on your drive to become a petite model,” says petite model Andrea Ventura, who is 5 feet, 3 inches. The fashion and model industry is changing, and your height should not limit you from doing what you love.”
In this guide, we’ll break down what a petite model actually is, the requirements and measurements you’ll typically need, and how to apply to be a petite model in the UK.
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A petite model typically refers to a female model who is shorter than the standard height requirements of high-fashion modelling. A petite model is usually between 5 feet, 2 inches and 5 feet, 6 inches, according to modelling website UK Models, and “their hip, waist, and bust sizes also tend to mirror their height (slightly smaller than the average male or female).” Petite models usually are booked for beauty campaigns, catalogue work, e-commerce shoots, and commercial advertising rather than for the runway.
Still, there’s no single set of rules. “A [petite] model who has high self-esteem who is proud of their figure will be noticed and recognised for their talent,” according to UK Models.
Keen to give it a go? Below are some tips for forging a career as a petite model in the UK.
If you want to become a petite model, start by researching the type of modelling you’re most suited to. Since mainstream runway couture fashion tends to favour taller models, the areas petite models tend to work in include:
- Commercial modelling (advertisements, magazines, and catalogues)
- E-commerce (promoting products)
- Face modelling (extreme close-up shoots, mainly for beauty campaigns)
- Parts modelling (close-up shots of body parts such as hands, feet, and hair)
Although it is uncommon to see a petite model on the catwalk, it isn’t completely out of the question. “It’s very rare to see a model who is deemed short…working in high fashion, but it isn’t unheard of,” according to the Model Builders. “Kate Moss is considered short for a model at 5 feet, 7 inches, but she still managed to have an incredibly successful career.”
Explore different types of modelling to understand where your look fits best.
To start modelling, you’ll need to have a portfolio. “A model’s portfolio is their tool for success,” according to the Model Builders. “Your portfolio should showcase your best petite modelling photos to date, and will be used at all interviews to show your experience and range as a model.” If you’re new to modelling, ask aspiring photographers who want to build their camera experience to collaborate on a shoot, the pictures from which can be used in your portfolio.
“Getting as much experience as possible is key in starting your modelling career,” Ventura says. “This experience doesn’t have to be paid work or agency sponsored. Collaborations or test shoots will help you create a strong basis for the rest of your career.”
Photographer Anastasia Jobson specialises in model portfolio photography. “You can begin your modelling portfolio with only two or three photos (a headshot and a body shot are a must) and gradually expand it over time,” she says.
For a full portfolio, Jobson suggests getting:
- A headshot that “encapsulates the essence of your personality and versatility in a single frame”
- A full-length body shot that “offers a comprehensive glimpse into your physique and proportions”
- A midlength body shot that “allows for a closer focus on your facial expressions, body language, and styling, making it ideal for showcasing your versatility in various modelling genres”
- A commercial shot that “provides a platform to showcase your acting prowess and emotive range”
- A fitness shot, which, “for those inclined toward the fitness industry or seeking to showcase their physical prowess, is indispensable”
Include a short bio, your measurements, and your contact details. When you’re ready, you can upload your portfolio to casting sites, where companies regularly post modelling casting calls.
Not all agencies work with petite talent, so focus your energy on signing with a modelling agent who does. Agencies with commercial and e-commerce clients are your best bet. When you’re reaching out to agencies, “the approach needs to be professional, smooth, and correct,” advises UK Models. “Each organisation will have different requirements (normally listed on their website) for applying, so it’s important these are thoroughly checked and followed.”
Some agencies that represent petite models include:
But “getting signed isn’t the be all and end all, as plenty of models start the foundations of their careers outside agencies,” according to Australian studio the Photo Studio. You can also submit directly to commercial jobs without an agent via open casting calls.
Once you begin booking work, treat it like a job and always be professional. Arrive on time, be reliable, and be easy to work with on set. Continue to refresh your portfolio as you gain experience, and stay active on social media – particularly Instagram and TikTok, which are becoming major platforms for scouting and booking models. “Tagging a brand or a person in your photos notifies them, and brings your image to their attention,” according to the Photo Studio.
Some models are first discovered online too. Elizabeth Jane Bishop, for example, first started sharing photos on Tumblr, and then Instagram. She now has over 407,000 followers and has worked for brands including Uniqlo. “My approach to social media is to take pride in my photography and the placement of images,” Bishop told Teen Vogue.
Most modelling agencies hold open calls, at which aspiring models can meet scouts in person. They’re great opportunities to get seen by the people who matter. “This route is better [for] exposing yourself in person and getting the agencies to get a feel for who you are,” Ventura says. “Agencies will usually post on their website the dates for their open calls under ‘Contact us,’ ‘Get discovered,’ or something similar.”
Modelling is a competitive industry, and you’ll have good and bad days. Rejection is very much part of the job too. For models like Lauren Alexander, dealing with rejection has been the biggest lesson. How does she process it? “I always remind myself not to let my hopes get high and to protect myself from disappointment,” she told C-Heads magazine. “If I wasn’t able to do this, I think I would find modelling a lot harder.”
Don’t let being below-average height put you off a career in modelling. With growing demand for diversity in height, shape, and style, there’s never been a better time to break into this niche. If you’ve got the drive, the look, and the professionalism, the UK’s commercial and e-commerce modelling scenes may just be waiting for you. “I am very sure petite models get more and more attention every day,” says petite model Anne, who is signed to IMM London. “Many brands have or are beginning to launch petite ranges, and that’s so awesome! You just need to believe in yourself.”