When you hear the phrase top models, what pops into your mind? A runway strut, a flawless photo, endless Instagram likes? There’s more to it than looks. Below we break down the mix of style and substance that separates the runway royalty from the rest.
Key Takeaways
- Style is the visual language a model owns - from signature looks to brand collaborations.
- Substance covers influence, activism, and career longevity.
- Successful models blend both, turning fleeting fame into lasting impact.
- Emerging talent can be spotted through social engagement, agency rosters, and runway history.
- Knowing the business side - bookings, fees, safety - protects a model’s career.
Direct Answer
Top models excel because they combine iconic style with real‑world substance: a recognizable aesthetic, strong personal brand, and a platform they use for advocacy or entrepreneurship.
What Makes a Model Stand Out?
Think of a model as a brand. Brands survive when they look good and mean something. The same holds for models. Let’s explore the two pillars.
Style: The Visual Signature
Style is the image you instantly recognize. It’s the runway walk, the go‑to poses, the color palette they favor, and the way they partner with designers.
Take Gigi Hadid is an American model known for her effortless street‑chic vibe and frequent collaborations with high‑end brands. Her look mixes athletic silhouettes with luxe accessories, making her a favorite for both runway and commercial work.
Then there’s Kendall Jenner who leverages a sleek, minimalist aesthetic that translates seamlessly from high fashion to everyday wear. Her style is less about bold statements and more about a clean, polished presence.
Substance: Influence and Impact
Substance goes beyond the pictures. It’s about how a model uses her platform, the causes she supports, and the business ventures she builds.
Naomi Campbell has been an activist for diversity in fashion, launching the “Fashion for Relief” charity that aids disaster‑stricken areas. Her influence stretches over three decades, proving that substance fuels longevity.
Another strong example is Adwoa Aboah who champions mental‑health awareness through her #MentalHealthMatters campaign. She turns personal challenges into a worldwide conversation, adding depth to her modeling career.
Defining Style vs. Substance
Style is the external, visual element - the clothes, walk, hair, and Instagram aesthetic. Substance is internal: values, activism, entrepreneurship, and the ability to stay relevant beyond a single season.
When a model masters both, the result is a recognisable brand that endures. Look at Ashley Graham - she breaks size norms in fashion while advocating for body‑positivity, launching her own clothing line that celebrates curves. Her style (curvy, confident looks) pairs with substance (body‑positivity activism).
Benefits of Balancing Style and Substance
- Higher earning potential - brands pay premium for authentic influence.
- Career longevity - substance keeps a model relevant after the typical runway years.
- Broader platform - activism opens doors to TV, podcasts, and business ventures.
- Personal fulfillment - using fame for a cause creates lasting satisfaction.
Types of Top Models
Not all top models follow the same path. Here are the most common categories:
- Runway models - tall, slender, dominate fashion weeks (e.g., Victoria's Secret Fashion Show is an annual runway event that propelled many models to household-name status).
- Commercial models - versatile, work in ads, catalogues, and lifestyle shoots.
- Plus‑size models - champion body diversity (e.g., Ashley Graham).
- Activist models - leverage fame for social causes (e.g., Adwoa Aboah).
- Digital influencers - build massive followings on platforms like Instagram is a visual social network where models share daily looks and personal stories.
How to Spot Emerging Talent
If you’re a scout, brand, or fan, here’s a quick checklist:
- Check agency rosters - IMG Models is one of the world’s leading modeling agencies representing top runway and commercial talent regularly adds fresh faces.
- Watch fashion weeks - look for models who get repeated bookings across shows.
- Analyze social metrics - high engagement rates on Instagram signals a strong personal brand.
- Read interviews - emerging models who discuss values early show substance potential.
What to Expect During a Casting Session
A typical casting runs 15‑30 minutes. You’ll be asked to:
- Walk a short runway or do a few turns.
- Pose for a series of lifestyle shots.
- Answer quick questions about your inspiration and future goals.
Agents often look for both a unique look (style) and a clear narrative (substance).
Pricing and Booking
Fees vary widely. Runway gigs often pay a flat rate plus travel. Commercial work can be per‑hour or per‑project. For instance, a high‑profile runway slot at the Fashion Week in major cities can command $5,000‑$15,000 per show.
When you book through an agency, expect a 20‑30% commission. Always get a written contract that outlines usage rights, payment schedule, and exclusivity clauses.
Safety Tips for Models
- Verify the agency’s credentials - legitimate agencies are listed with national modeling councils.
- Never work without a signed agreement that details location, hours, and payment.
- Keep a trusted friend or manager informed of shoot details.
- Watch for red flags: upfront fees, vague contracts, or requests for overly personal content.
Comparison Table: Style vs. Substance in Top Models
| Aspect | Style (Visual) | Substance (Impact) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Driver | Signature look, runway walk, social‑media aesthetic | Advocacy, business ventures, public speaking |
| Typical Earnings Boost | Higher rates for fashion editorials | Brand deals, collaborations, product lines |
| Longevity | Often tied to current trends | Can extend career beyond modeling years |
| Public Perception | Seen as a “face” of fashion | Viewed as a role model or influencer |
Frequently Asked Questions
What defines a "top model" today?
A top model now blends iconic style with a strong personal brand, social influence, and often a cause they champion. It’s no longer just about runway height.
Can a model succeed without a social media presence?
It’s possible, especially in high‑fashion circuits where agencies place heavy weight on runway performance. However, a strong Instagram or TikTok following now adds negotiating power for campaigns.
How do agencies assess substance?
Agents look at a model’s advocacy work, public speaking engagements, and any business ventures (like clothing lines). They also gauge authenticity - is the cause a personal passion?
What’s the average earning range for runway models?
For major fashion weeks, an established runway model can earn $5,000‑$15,000 per show. Newcomers often start around $1,000‑$3,000 per appearance.
How can aspiring models develop substance?
Start by identifying a cause you care about, volunteer, or launch a small project. Share your journey online and build credibility before leveraging it for brand collaborations.
Ready to Follow the Trail?
If you’re dreaming of stepping onto the runway or building an influential fashion profile, start with one clear step: sign up with a reputable agency, refine your personal style, and decide what cause you’ll champion. Combine the visual with the meaningful, and you’ll be on the fast track to becoming a real top model.
