‘Dressmen’- Male Models

When you hear the word "dress man", you immediately think of a gentleman with an umbrella, a bowler hat and bucket loads of charm. This isn’t the exact meaning anymore but it still reflects the style of many male models who call themselves ‘dressmen’. But what exactly is the difference?

What is a ‘dressman’?

The term ‘dressman’ refers to a male model, especially in German speaking countries. The classic dressman has its origins in the 1960s and 70s, when the term ‘male model’ wasn’t used for any type of male models, they were always referred to as ‘dressmen’. Over time, however, the role of male models has changed and developed beyond modelling outerwear on the catwalk. Since the 1980s, dressmen have been replaced, at least conceptually, by the male model. Nevertheless, if a model is particularly successful, he will often refer to himself as a ‘dressman’.

What is the difference between dressmen and male models?

Strictly speaking, ‘dressman’ is an outdated term for a male model, although it is sometimes used today to distinguish between male and female models . Otherwise it is barely used anymore. However, some models and agencies deliberately resort to this antiquated term in order to convey the gentleman image and differentiate themselves from the modern male model. They are once again focussing primarily on menswear, whereas a modern male model does not follow this classic path but is also active in other areas.

A term that doesn’t exist internationally

You must be careful using the term ‘dressman’ however, because it simply doesn’t exist in English speaking countries. Here, they are instead always referred to as male models. We recommend using this term when communicating with international partners. Using the term ‘dressman’ could lead to some misunderstanding.

Being a gentleman male model

In day-to-day life, the term "dress man" no longer exists in the fashion and casting world, yet there are some men who are going back to these elegant roots. In the 1940s and 50s, men still wore hats, customised suits and everything was top quality. Some men have started modelling clothing like this, presenting high-quality menswear collections.