Working As A Fitting Model: Give Feedback And Test New Styles!

Are you passionate about fashion? Do you want to take a look behind the scenes of fashion companies? Fitting models support product development by giving feedback on the comfort, look and fit of new designs. Anybody of any size/age/gender can be a fitting model! But what does it take to become one?

What is a fitting model?

A fitting model is not a photo model because their aims and purposes are completely different. Fitting models try on sample products from many different designers and labels. A fitting is essential for every element of the fashion world; fitting models make sure the highest quality standards are reached for every product they try. However, it is only random samples that are tested, not every single product.

Why do labels need samples?

Before mass production , the prototype must be perfect, be it a skirt, trousers or a bikini. Is it too tight? Too wide? Are there any faults in the design? How does it move? After this is all tested, a designer can make effective adjustments to ensure the product fits as many buyers as possible. A fitting model’s job is to try on samples from collections and give your feedback. You play a key role working with the brand’s product development team in order to achieve the perfect fit.

Do you need to fit certain measurements to be a fitting model?

There are even specific measurements for fitting models! This changes from product to product, depending on the size of that which you’re testing. This can range from XXS to XXL. As a fitting model, you are representing the target group with your body type, which is why anybody can be a fitting model- no two bodies are the same. Fitting models can also test out the movement of an item (something a mannequin can’t do!).

What role does body type play?

In every shop, sizing is different- M is never the same as M. This means that other specifications are extremely important- e.g. arm length, waist measurements and shoulder width. Having a wide range of models with the same clothing size guarantees that size variations are reflected in the range. The more accurate the prototype, the more successful the market appearance of the finished product. For each brand, there are set standards for each clothing size- if you have the average measurements for your size, there is a high chance you could work as a fitting model. The five basic types of fit are Junior, Missy, Contemporary, Petite and Plus Size . Measurements and proportions vary according to size and age. Depending on the fashion brand, there is also more than just one fit. With so much individualisation, it makes sense for a fitting model to specialise in a particular segment, such as jeans or lingerie. If you think about swimwear, for example: ‘Height between 168 cm and 175 cm’ could be in the search description for a fitting model, with 36 to 38 as the clothing size and, for example, cup B/C as the cup size. The catalogue of requirements for a male fitting model could look like this: ‘Men's size M, 48, 31 inches, height from 178 cm, chest circumference 96 cm, waist circumference 84 cm, hip circumference 98 cm’. This means they need a range of fitting models.

How does being a fitting model actually work?

It depends on what a fashion brand wants you to do. When trying on a new collection, the designer of the models will ask you, for example:
1. Does the length of the top fit?
2. Does it fit - or is there a pinch?
3. Is the neckline too low (or too high)?
4. Can you move easily?
5. Does something need to be made tighter or wider?
A fashion brand only knows whether it meets the tastes of its customers through detailed reviews. If there are any problems, pieces are altered and the new pattern is tested in another fitting. If everything is good, then the garment can be released for production. If you are trying on garments that have already been altered, the aim of the fitting is to find out whether a garment needs to be altered before a new batch is ordered or whether it is better to remove it from the collection altogether. Fittings models aren’t just human mannequins! Their feedback on the cut, size, fit and style is extremely valuable for a collection. You’re giving your feedback on behalf of all future buyers and models.

What qualifications do you need?

If you have already worked as a fitting model, bring your experience from previous fittings to the table! Experienced fitting models in particular can express their opinion on wearability in a very tailored way. However, if you have no previous experience by a good feel for clothes and the way that they fit, you are also welcome in this industry. Having good proportions and a consistent clothing size are also recommended (but not required).

How often do you get work? How much does it pay?

Be flexible in terms of time, as fittings take place over a week at different times. This depends on the collection calendar. You don’t need any specific training at all. Many fitting models have a fixed fashion brand, including smaller designers who they work for regularly. It is usual to charge by the hour for your fitting service.

Live your dream and apply now!

As a casting & modelling agency, we know from experience that no one is too old, young, big or small to be a fitting model. Everyone has the right to feel-good fashion and the chance to be a model!
Simply register online at starboxx, enter your details and upload some photos to start your career today. We look forward to hearing from you!