There’s no shortage of models in New York City, and as such, there are plenty of modeling agencies to showcase talent. Among these agencies are model management groups that specialize in promoting non-traditional looks. Recently, the fashion industry has made a move to be more inclusive of talent, which is a beautiful thing. These ten modeling agencies are home to a more inclusive aesthetic, which can help to break the mold of the traditional “model” look.
Courtesy Q Management
Q Management
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Q Models offices are located in both NYC and Los Angeles. They work with men, women and even international personalities, including Coyote Ugly actress Izabella Mikolajczak, Olympic swimmer Mark Foster and late musician Scott Weiland.
MSA Models is a full-service modeling agency with branches in NYC and LA. With over 60 years of experience, MSA has developed a variety of talent to choose from. Their fit department has models ranging from a size 0 to 10 while their plus-sized models range from a size 12 to 24. MSA not only has an array of sizes to choose from, but their Lifestyle division also includes a variety of talent from age 5 to 75.
IMG Models has branches in NYC, Sydney, Paris, Milan and London, and is home to a few famous faces. Christie Brinkley, Mila Jovovich and Gigi Hadid are a few of the very famous talent signed to the modeling agency. Their model, Ashley Graham, recently made history as the first plus-sized model to be featured in an ad in the Sports Illustrated swimsuit edition.
Next Management is another agency that houses famous talent. Next Management doesn’t only work with models, but with musicians, bloggers, artist and even chefs. Alexa Chung, Ellie Goulding and Les Twins are some of the well-known talent on Next’s roster. Next also has an artist section that can help you find anything you need from hair and makeup to props and set design.
Dutch model Wilhemina Cooper founded Wilhemina Models in 1967. Wilhemina is now home to a plethora of talent who work the runways, as well as plus-size fashion. Wilhemina also works with kids, teens and a small selection of celebrity clients.
We Speak is a newcomer to the modeling scene, founded by model Briauna Mariah to help change the face of the modeling industry. We Speak models are health conscious and drug-free. Although only just beginning, We Speak has already placed models Freia Titland and Chelsea LeSage in Italian Vogue’s Online Edition.
Founded in 2007, Muse Management is built on the principle of providing truly personal management and service. Muse Management has three different sections of models including their ‘+ Muse’ section containing 46 plus-sized models. Muse’s plus-sized model Laura Catterall is on the cover of the Summer 2015 issue for Italian fashion company, Marina Rinaldi.
Bella Agency works with men and women of all ages and ethnicities. They have a special section on their website dedicated to women over the age of 40. It’s certainly refreshing to see older, professional women in the modeling world.
Founded in 2009, ADAM Models has become ‘one of the most watched boutique model management agencies around the world.’ The first thing you notice when browsing ADAM Models’ website is their small selection of unique and edgy models. Tattoos and piercings are proudly on display on both their male and female models.
Founded in October 2005, MC2 Model Management is run out of NYC, Miami and Tel Aviv. Their models have been featured in magazines such as Vogue, Elle, Marie Claire and many more internationally.
