The modelling world, particularly high fashion, are notorious for their strict body measurement requirements. But what is the “perfect body“, and is it possible to model without it? Read on to find out.
Perfection Through History
Our opinion on perfection is constantly changing. There is no equation for perfection; it depends on what society deems in fashion. Of course, this doesn’t mean you have to agree with it. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and just because something is fashionable now doesn’t mean it is the gold standard for perfection.
In the 1400s for a few hundred years, a fuller figure and overall larger body size was deemed most attractive. This is because being large was a sign of wealth; only the poor were skinny because they couldn’t afford to eat well. Large hips were also thought of as beautiful because wide hips were a sign of fertility.
In the early 1900s, curves were accentuated with tight corsets and large skirts.
In the 1920s, women were deemed most attractive if they had a boyish figure. Androgyny was in and women took to wearing dresses that hid their feminine shape.
In the ’50s, curves were back thanks to Hollywood stars Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor. Both Barbie and Playboy magazine were invented during this era.
In the 90s, the skinny look was back again (known as ‘heroin chic’). It was fashionable to look small and skinny (think Kate Moss).
Nowadays, a large bum and small waist are considered to be the ideal female body. Men, on the other hand, are thought to be most attractive when they are tall, have minimal body fat and well-defined muscles.
Even in one lifetime, the standards of beauty have changed so much that one person may feel the need to alter their body 3 or even 4 times to meet the current standard of perfection.
What is the Current Perfect Body Shape?
If you are to take one thing away from this article, it’s this – clearly, there is no such thing as the “perfect body“. The current trend for beauty encompasses the following:
– Hourglass figure
– Women have decent-sized breasts
– Small waist
– Long, toned legs
– Large, peachy bum
– Flat tummy
– Toned muscles
Who Has the Most Perfect Body?
There is no way to determine who has the most “perfect body“. Those who had stereotypically attractive bodies in the past may not be deemed as beautiful by today’s standards.
Here are some models and celebrities that are thought to meet today’s beauty standard:
– Kim Kardashian
– Chris Hemsworth
– Kelly Brook
– Gal Gadot
– Christiano Ronaldo
There is quite a difference between curvy Brook and Kardashian and the more athletic Gadot, though both looks are desirable today. In 2020, there is more of a desire to be either curvy and feminine, or fit and athletic.
It’s also worth mentioning that the “perfect figure” is also found more attractive when it is natural – that is, no plastic surgery or cosmetic procedures. The ideal form is expected to be achieved purely through eating well and working out.
What Features Are Most Desirable for Modelling?
Modelling is a varied and large industry. There is no set standard (which is great news or there would be very few models!) There needs to be a variety of different-looking models because brands require different models for their products and audience. There is no ideal body shape.
The desired traits depend entirely on which style of modelling you wish to do. Female lingerie models are generally required to have flat stomachs and bigger busts – but plus-size lingerie models are required to be larger. Catwalk models must be tall and slender, while glamour models are usually curvaceous. Alternative models need tattoos and piercings, while commercial models will do better with no body modifications.
It is very difficult to say which features are most desired, but here are some generalised qualities that will help a model to succeed:
– Being over 5’7″ tall
– Being in proportion (an hourglass shape)
– Having clear, even skin
– Being photogenic
– Having long legs
– Having muscle tone
Some people may be attractive in real life, but that doesn’t mean they’ll look good on camera. And it’s the other way around, too – sometimes people don’t appear model-worthy in person, but put them behind a camera and they truly shine.
What Does the Fashion Industry Deem As Attractive?
Have you ever noticed that not all models look the same? That’s because there is no set definition of beauty. There are no rules that say you must have perfect skin, straight teeth or even facial features. On the contrary, some models have done well in spite of and even because of their differences.
Concerned about your large breasts? You might not be suitable for runway modelling, but a bigger bust measurement is seen as a benefit for glamour and lingerie modelling. Do your rock-hard abs mean you are overlooked for traditional commercial modelling? Fitness and physique modelling might be right for you.
Instead of focusing on individual aspects of your looks, look at the whole picture. If you have style, confidence and come across well, a successful career in modelling may be just around the corner.
How to Make the Most of Your Looks
With time and money, all of us can meet today’s beauty standards and have the ‘ideal body type‘. Just remember that models who stand out tend to do better because they are a change from the norm.
It’s important to look after yourself both physically and mentally. The modelling industry can be a gruelling place to work in and you need to have the strength to persevere and put up with some late nights and long days.
All models should prioritise on eating healthily and working out. Eating well will keep your weight and fat levels in check as well as give you clearer skin and healthier hair. Models need an adequate amount of calories and protein to fuel workouts and give them lots of energy. Many models take additional supplements like protein shakes to ensure they are getting enough. A banana is also a great post-workout snack.
Of course, some of us are prone to acne and no amount of greens will clear this up. You may want to visit a dermatologist and get some expert advice on skincare if your skin needs some help looking clear and smooth. (Remember, acne will not prevent you from a career in modelling – Victoria’s Secret model Taylor Hill is proof!)
Working out is important, too. Nearly all models and celebrities have personal trainers that personalise fitness regimes to fit into their lifestyles and suit their body types. Models have a lot of time to spend on their physiques, so don’t feel guilty if you’re unable to keep up with their strict workout routines. Try and incorporate activity into your day-to-day life; walk and take the stairs, go for bike rides instead of watching the TV, and try to find a workout that you genuinely enjoy. Yoga, cardio (like spin cycle or running) and weight training are model favourites.
Don’t focus on weight loss; instead, focus on building strength and muscle tone. Eat enough food to fuel your workouts and keep your body happy and healthy.
Nearly everybody agrees that a happy person is more attractive. Work on how you feel about yourself and focus on building your confidence. Being shy is not a bad thing but you must have confidence in your own abilities and in front of the camera.
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