A significant segment of the fashion industry revolves around modeling agencies. These agencies play a critical role in providing models for fashion designers, editorial shoots, and advertising campaigns.
Introducing fresh faces to the modeling world is a key responsibility of these agencies. Their role involves scouting new talent, offering training, and representing models to prospective clients. Additionally, they ensure models are equipped with adequate training programs to excel in the industry.
The leading modeling agencies in the United States are renowned for selecting talent with unique looks and dynamic personalities. They not only provide ongoing training and support but also help models build successful careers both domestically and internationally. A proven history of shaping thriving modeling careers is a hallmark of these top agencies.
While there are many modeling agencies across the U.S., not all meet the highest standards. This guide aims to help you identify the best modeling agencies in the country.
The modeling industry is vast and lucrative, but it often presents challenges for aspiring models, including exploitation by unethical individuals and organizations.
To address these concerns, Dennis and Oksana established Skylar Modeling, a safe and supportive space designed to help new models enter the profession with confidence. Skylar Modeling offers comprehensive workshops that act as a one-stop solution, teaching participants the essentials for starting their modeling careers securely. With step-by-step action plans and intensive training, attendees are equipped to begin modeling right after completing the program.
Skylar Modeling provides in-person classes in New York as well as online courses, ensuring their expertise is accessible to aspiring models nationwide. Recognized as one of the top modeling academies for older models in the U.S., Skylar Modeling is dedicated to empowering individuals of all ages to pursue their modeling ambitions.
2. IMG Models
IMG Models is a relatively new player in the modeling agency industry, originating as part of IMG Worldwide, a leading fashion, sports, and media corporation. Despite its recent entry, IMG Models has quickly risen to become one of the fastest-growing and most renowned modeling agencies in the world.
Since its establishment in 2013, the agency has expanded its presence with offices in New York City, Los Angeles, Milan, Paris, and Sydney. IMG Models represents some of the most prominent names in the industry, including Bella and Gigi Hadid, Joan Smalls, and Karlie Kloss, solidifying its reputation as a global powerhouse in the modeling world.
3. DNA Models
Founded in 1995, DNA Models is often considered a relatively newer agency, yet it consistently ranks among the top modeling agencies in New York. Known for representing high-profile stars and celebrities, this representation has played a significant role in propelling the agency to prominence.
What sets DNA apart is its commitment to empowering models to advocate for issues that affect women globally. Their charitable initiatives further establish them as trailblazers within the industry. Additionally, DNA’s professionals prioritize treating their models as individuals with unique qualities, rather than just focusing on their looks, fostering a compassionate and supportive environment.
4. The Society
Society Models is a leader in talent discovery and model management, boasting an impressive portfolio of clients. Its greatest strength lies in its unwavering dedication to the individuals it represents. With a stable and highly experienced management team, Society Models has set itself apart in an industry often characterized by instability.
Since the early 1990s, the agency’s core team has worked together to build the careers of both emerging talents and established superstars. Their ability to guide and enhance a model’s career at every stage is truly commendable, whether they are nurturing fresh talent or reinvigorating the careers of seasoned professionals. This holistic approach solidifies Society Models as a standout in the modeling world.
5. Elite Models
Elite Model Management was founded in Paris in 1972 by John Casablancas and Alain Kittler. In 1977, the agency expanded its reach by opening a campus in New York City. Since then, Elite has solidified its reputation as one of the most prestigious and influential commercial modeling agencies in the world.
Part of its global acclaim stems from its groundbreaking approach to redefining societal standards of what makes a suitable fashion model. The term “supermodel” emerged as Elite embraced a shift away from traditional ideals, championing the empowerment of models and celebrating their ability to thrive amidst the challenges of the fashion industry.
This forward-thinking philosophy also led to the success of many “misfit” models who defied conventional norms. Elite has represented iconic names such as Tyra Banks, Naomi Campbell, Gisele Bündchen, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Janice Dickinson, Paulina Porizkova, and Cameron Russell, along with celebrities like Cameron Diaz and countless others, cementing its legacy as a trailblazer in the modeling world.
6. Women Management
Founded in 1988, Women Management has become one of the most recognized names in European fashion, thanks to its strong presence in Paris and Milan. The agency has earned widespread respect for its impeccable professionalism and disciplined approach, making it a trusted partner for photographers, brands, magazines, and designers alike.
With stars such as Natasha Poly, Kasia Struss, and Carmen Kass on its roster, Women Management continues to set the standard in the industry. Their events are as captivating as their talent, ensuring they remain a standout presence in the fashion world.
In addition to its European dominance, Women Management maintains a physical presence in New York, acting as a global hub for both established modeling talent and aspiring models looking to make their mark.
7. Ford Models
Founded in 1946 by Eileen and Jerry Ford, Ford Modeling Agency revolutionized the industry with innovative practices, including the introduction of advance payments, ensuring models were compensated promptly upon task completion.
While the Ford Models office in New York no longer conducts open casting calls, aspiring models can still apply by submitting their applications through the agency’s online form.
8. Heroes Models
Founded in 2015, Heroes Model Management has quickly made a significant impact on the modeling industry. Their models have graced Fashion Weeks in Paris, Milan, and New York, and secured major magazine spreads with top brands like Prada, Zara, Calvin Klein, and Hugo Boss.
The agency focuses on nurturing new talent while elevating the careers of established models by embracing their unique strengths. In 2016, Heroes Men was launched, quickly gaining recognition for discovering fresh talent, often sourced through social media platforms.
Heroes Model Management is an exceptional choice for early-career models seeking to build a lasting professional journey in the fashion industry.
9. CAA
With CAA’s unwavering support, storytellers, trendsetters, icons, and thought leaders shaping popular culture are presented with countless opportunities. The agency represents thousands of the world’s top talents, including actors, directors, writers, producers, musicians, comedians, authors, athletes, coaches, broadcasters, teams, leagues, chefs, designers, fashion talent, consumer brands, and more, spanning film, television, music, sports, digital media, marketing, and beyond.
Since its founding in 1975, CAA has remained committed to its unique collaborative promise: the entire agency works together to represent every client. This approach is especially vital as many clients seek to expand their careers and brands across diverse disciplines and platforms. This dedication to teamwork continues to set CAA apart in the entertainment and creative industries.
10. The Lions Models
The Lions is a boutique modeling agency founded by a group of experienced models who have spent years in the industry. Dedicated to building strong personal brands, the agency focuses on helping its clients become the best versions of themselves.
Drawing from their own experiences as former clients of other agencies, the founders established The Lions with a mission to improve the industry for newcomers. Their firsthand knowledge has allowed them to create a supportive and empowering environment that addresses the challenges models often face, setting a new standard in the field.