Models are people, either male or female, who act as props for the display of items like dresses, jewelry, accessories and the like. Modeling is basically of two types fashion modeling and commercial modeling.
Fashion modeling is an intrinsic part of the clothing industry. Leading designers rely on fashion models to walk the ramp in fashion shows to display their collections. Fashion models are used for photo shoots also. Such assignments require them to show particular emotions and feelings on their faces. So fashion models need to have a certain amount of acting skills too. Also, it is not unusual for fashion models to use their modeling career as a stepping stone for an acting career.
Fashion models may be either high fashion models or commercial models. Both types churn out a regular crop of top models from time to time. Several top models specialize in high fashion modeling. Artistic themes are used as backdrops for such assignments. These kinds of assignments pay very well and add a lot of value to a model's portfolio. In fact, a few high fashion assignments done with leading photographers is enough to turn a model into a top model.
Commercial models model for assignments like catalogues, cosmetics, various print magazines and the like. Several commercial models also go on to become famous top models with their names being recognized in every household. Top models are often sought after for product endorsements.
Naomi Campbell, Tyra Banks, Twiggy, Gisele Bundchen, Christie Brinkley, Kate Moss, Cindy Crawford, Petra Nemcova, Beverly Johnson, Elle Macpherson, and Janice Dickinson are a few popular top models who are recognized in all households all over America. Daria Werbowy, Gemma Ward, Lily Cole, Natalia Vodianova, and Karolina Kurkova are a few of the notable top models of today.
Though photographs of top models with their smiling faces may suggest a luxurious life, it is luxury that is hard earned after hundreds of shows, shoots and the like which would have taken a lot of time and effort.