In the fashion world, the terms model and supermodel are often used interchangeably, but there are key differences that set these two career paths apart. While both are involved in the modeling industry, supermodels enjoy a level of fame, influence, and recognition that most regular models do not.
In this blog, we’ll break down the differences between a model and a supermodel, from their career paths to their level of fame, and explain what it takes to go from a regular model to a supermodel.
1. What Is a Model?
A model is someone who works in the fashion, commercial, or entertainment industries to promote products, services, or concepts by showcasing them in advertisements, photoshoots, and runway shows. Models are typically hired based on their ability to represent a brand’s image and their physical appearance, which may include height, body type, facial features, and overall look.
Key Characteristics of a Model:
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Work Scope: Models can work in various categories, such as fashion, commercial, fitness, plus-size, or petite modeling, depending on their specific look and abilities.
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Job Types: Models often appear in photoshoots, catalogs, billboards, magazines, and runway shows for smaller brands or regional designers.
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Fame Level: Most models have a localized or industry-specific presence. They are known within their agency or specific modeling niche but may not be household names.
How to Become a Model?
To get started in modeling, you typically need:
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A portfolio showcasing your best work.
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To be signed by a modeling agency.
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Consistent auditions and gigs to build up your experience and exposure.
2. What Is a Supermodel?
A supermodel is a model who has achieved an exceptional level of fame and recognition. Supermodels are not just models—they are global icons, often working with the biggest fashion houses, walking in prestigious runway shows, and gracing the covers of major magazines like Vogue, Elle, and Harper’s Bazaar. Supermodels are usually highly sought after due to their immense popularity, career achievements, and influence in the fashion and entertainment industries.
Key Characteristics of a Supermodel:
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Global Recognition: Supermodels are household names, and they are known worldwide. Think of models like Cindy Crawford, Naomi Campbell, Gisele Bündchen, and Kendall Jenner—they are not just known for their modeling but are cultural icons with millions of followers.
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High-End Fashion: Supermodels primarily work with luxury brands such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Versace, Prada, and Gucci. They walk for top designers at Fashion Weeks around the world and appear in major campaigns for high-end labels.
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Influence Beyond Modeling: Many supermodels extend their influence into other industries, like acting, business ventures, and activism, turning their names into full-fledged brands.
How to Become a Supermodel?
Becoming a supermodel requires not just talent and physical beauty but also luck, timing, and an ability to stand out in a crowded industry. Here’s what typically separates supermodels from other models:
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Unique and Iconic Look: A supermodel often has a distinct, recognizable look that sets them apart from others in the industry.
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Breakthrough Moments: Supermodels usually have a breakout moment in their careers, such as a game-changing campaign, a high-profile runway show, or a memorable magazine cover.
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Longevity: Supermodels maintain relevance in the fashion industry for years, continuously landing major gigs and keeping their public profiles active.
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Personal Brand: A supermodel is often seen as a brand in themselves. Their image, personality, and public appearances contribute to their success beyond just their modeling work.
3. Fame and Exposure
The most significant difference between a model and a supermodel is the level of fame and exposure they receive. While models can achieve a certain level of recognition within the industry, supermodels are household names with the kind of fame that extends far beyond the fashion world.
Models
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Typically known within the fashion industry or through their agency.
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Appear in local or national campaigns and work with brands at various levels.
Supermodels
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Have a global presence, often appearing in major international campaigns and gracing the covers of prestigious magazines.
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Their public profiles are larger than their modeling careers, with many supermodels becoming media personalities or entrepreneurs.
4. The Pay Scale
There’s also a huge difference in earning potential between regular models and supermodels. While models can earn a decent living through freelance work, commercial jobs, and modeling contracts, supermodels often command premium pay for the same work, often multi-million-dollar contracts for a single campaign.
How Much Do Models Make?
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Fashion models or commercial models can make anywhere from $20,000 to $100,000+ per year depending on the market and frequency of bookings.
How Much Do Supermodels Make?
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Supermodels like Kendall Jenner and Gisele Bündchen can make millions annually, with figures often reaching $20 million to $40 million or more, depending on the contracts, brand endorsements, and other ventures they are involved in.
5. Longevity and Career Path
A supermodel’s career typically has more longevity in the public eye compared to regular models. Supermodels can continue to work for many years, even after they stop walking the runway or doing photoshoots regularly. They can leverage their fame and image into brand collaborations, business ventures, and even acting careers.
Regular models, on the other hand, often experience shorter careers. The industry is highly youth-driven, and many models may transition to other roles or retire early if they do not make a significant impact or break through the industry barriers.
6. Level of Work and Opportunities
While models may have to take on a variety of gigs—from local commercials to regional fashion shows—supermodels typically have access to high-profile and high-paying opportunities. These include global campaigns, runway shows for iconic fashion houses, and contracts with major lifestyle or beauty brands.
Conclusion
So, what’s the difference between a model and a supermodel? While both work in the same industry, the key distinctions are their fame, pay, and the type of work they do. Supermodels are not just faces in fashion—they are cultural icons who transcend the industry and have a massive influence on fashion, business, and beyond.
If you’re aiming for a successful career in modeling, know that both models and supermodels face significant challenges, but with the right skills, determination, and sometimes a bit of luck, you could find yourself walking in the footsteps of the world’s top models.
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For more information or assistance, feel free to email us at info@thelyvora.com