Answering a Reader Question #93

Amanda Wrote:

Hey Dania!. I read your post about modeling with braces, and since a lot of people think I look good with braces, I thought I could deal with that later. But my question is, do you think I have the right body for modeling? I'm 13-14, 5'9 ft., weigh 110 but most people assume I weigh 95-100, and I wear nighttime contacts, so my eyesight won't bother me during the day. But the two things I'm worried about are, 1) that I'm really on the pale side because of, 2) I have freckles and my skin is very sensitive to sunlight. I don't think I've ever seen a model with freckles, and I don't know if an agency would be willing to hire me, especially in south Florida, because I stick out like a sore thumb with my pale skin. What do you think?

Please answer!! =)

Hi, Amanda, and thanks for the questions. First, your height and weight sound ideal for fashion/runway/editorial, although I don't know your measurements. If you are in the ballpark of 34-24-34 (bust, waist, hips in inches) or smaller, then you are good to go. When it comes to measurements you cannot be larger than one inch in any of these three areas, although it is fine if you are smaller.

Freckles are actually "in" right now so that would work in your favor. I know of a booking agent with DNA Models and she has posted online before stating that fashion models with freckles are in demand so I don't think you'll have a problem there. Because fashion models often work outdoors on location in addition to shooting in studios, your sensitive skin could pose a problem when it comes to an agent trying to book you for work. If they have to filter out or can only submit you for fewer gigs because of your condition, it could act as a deterrent and make you less marketable. Agencies want to give their models tons of work and if there is any reason why they wouldn't be able to submit you to something, it means a loss of business for them and you cannot further your career.

If the sunlight in the Florida area is going to be a problem for you pursuing a modeling career, you could look into getting agency representation in the New York market, since that area isn't really known for its sunny weather most times. It could be worth looking into, especially since you are already at the ideal height for that type of modeling. Or you could try looking into representation with a Florida agency that regularly sends its models to New York for work. So you have a couple of options, which you should definitely seek out--it's the only way you'll get your questions answered for sure. So go for it and good luck!

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