Demystifying the 'Average': Weight by Modeling Specialty
There is no single 'average' weight that applies to all female models. The figure largely depends on the specific niche within the modeling industry. High fashion, commercial, plus-size, and fitness modeling each have distinct body type and weight expectations, influenced by the clients and designers they work for. A runway model, for instance, needs to fit standard sample sizes, while a plus-size model's weight is determined by her curves and proportions.
The Strict Requirements of High Fashion and Runway
For high-fashion and runway modeling, the weight standards are famously strict. Models are typically required to be very tall, often between 5'9" and 6'0", and have very slender frames.
- Weight Range: Runway models typically weigh between 110 to 125 pounds (50–57 kg). For editorial modeling, which includes fashion magazines like Vogue and Elle, the range is similar, often between 113 and 128 pounds (51–58 kg).
- Measurements: Standard requirements include a 32–34 inch bust, a 22–25 inch waist, and 33–35 inch hips, with minimal variance tolerated.
- BMI: Models often fall into the lower end of the Body Mass Index (BMI) spectrum, a practice that has garnered significant criticism and spurred health concerns.
The Diverse World of Commercial and Plus-Size Modeling
In contrast, commercial and plus-size modeling showcase a much broader range of body types, reflecting a movement towards greater body positivity and representation. Commercial models often represent everyday people for products and services.
- Commercial Models: These models may have a more relaxed weight standard, but still need to meet specific physical requirements for their target audience. Their weight is often more proportional to their height.
- Plus-Size Models: The plus-size market is a significant and growing part of the industry. These models are typically a US size 12 and up.
- Plus-Size Weight: A plus-size model can weigh anywhere from 161 to 205 pounds or more, with emphasis placed on a well-proportioned figure and healthy appearance.
Specialized Fields: Fitness and Fit Modeling
Even more specific are fields like fitness and fit modeling, where body composition and shape are more important than overall weight.
- Fitness Models: These models have an athletic physique with defined muscles and a low body fat percentage. Their weight might be higher than a runway model of the same height due to muscle mass, but their physique is trim and strong.
- Fit Models: These models are used by designers to test the fit of clothing during the production process. Their dimensions are highly specific and must remain consistent. For a plus-size fit model, a weight of 155 to 170 lbs might be expected for a height of 5'8".
Comparative Table: Weight and Height Across Modeling Categories
The following table illustrates the differences in general requirements for various female modeling specialties.
| Modeling Category | Height Range | Approximate Weight Range (lbs) | Typical Dress Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Runway/Ramp | 5'9"+ | 110 - 125 | 0-6 |
| Editorial | 5'8" - 6'0" | 113 - 128 | 4-6 |
| Commercial/Catalogue | 5'7"+ | 110 - 125 | 4-6 |
| Plus-Size | 5'8"+ | 161 - 205+ | 12-18+ |
| Fitness | 5'5"+ | 110 - 140 | 4-6 (but muscular) |
The Evolving Landscape of Body Image in Fashion
For decades, the fashion industry has been heavily criticized for promoting an unhealthy, often unattainable body standard. Models have faced immense pressure to maintain extremely low body weights, which has been linked to eating disorders and other health issues. However, the industry is experiencing a slow but significant shift.
Following health controversies and public pressure, some regions have implemented regulations, like the 2016 ban on overly thin models in Madrid fashion shows. The rise of social media has also given consumers a louder voice, demanding greater representation and body diversity. This has fueled the success of plus-size and curve models, proving that a wider range of body types can be both commercially successful and aspirational. Brands are increasingly using a mix of models with varying heights, weights, and sizes to better reflect their customer base.
The Health and Safety of Models
Beyond the aesthetic requirements, the health and safety of models have become a focal point. Major agencies are now more actively involved in monitoring models' well-being. Regular reviews track measurements and overall health, aiming to prevent the dangerous eating habits that have plagued the industry in the past. Models who are naturally thin may have a healthy body composition, but agencies and designers are becoming more cautious about encouraging risky weight loss. For those concerned about eating disorders in the industry, resources are available from organizations like Eating Disorder Hope.
Conclusion
Defining an "average" weight for a female model is complex because the figure is far from universal. It is heavily dictated by the specific segment of the modeling industry, from the extremely slender requirements of high-fashion runways to the more diverse and healthy expectations of commercial and plus-size markets. As the fashion world slowly but surely embraces a broader definition of beauty, the concept of a single, restrictive average weight continues to become outdated, paving the way for a more inclusive and body-positive future.
