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Fashion Model
In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.
The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used.
Here is how this occupation has been classified over time.
2006 NOC
2006 NOC-S
2011 NOC
2016 NOC
2021 NOC
2023 OaSIS
Models present clothing and merchandise to audiences through fashion shows, photographs, videos and personal appearances. There are 3 basic types of modelling: runway, print and television.
Some models specialize in a particular type of modelling. However, versatility is a definite asset when looking for work. For example, models should be able to work as both runway and print models.
Some models specialize in particular fashion categories, such as plus sizes or fashions for older people.
Models work in a wide variety of settings. Their hours of work vary a great deal. They may have to stand long hours on their feet. Local fashion shows may be held in tea rooms, shopping malls or banquet rooms, or on outdoor stages. Photo sessions may be in studios or on location (sometimes outside). Commercials are usually shot in studios but may be shot on location. Some commercials take up to 5 days to shoot.
Modelling is an extremely competitive field. Models must be ready to take calls on short notice, so daily personal grooming and wardrobe organization are essential. Work tends to be seasonal, busiest in the fall and spring. Local modelling tends to be more lenient so models may continue working for more years than in international modelling.
In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2006 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.
Interest in speaking with prospective purchasers to provide information about garments, and to perform social functions such as greeting and introducing guests at banquets, luncheons and other events
Interest in comparing information to dress in sample and completed garments, apply cosmetics, arrange hair and select complementary accessories
Interest in posing and modelling by standing, turning and walking to demonstrate garments' features to audiences at fashion shows, private showings and retail establishments
To identify or change your interest codes, complete the Interests Exercise in CAREERinsite.
The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation.
It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective, and Social.
Each set of 3 interest codes for this NOC group is listed in order of importance.
A code in capital letters means it’s a strong fit for the occupation.
A code in all lowercase letters means the fit is weaker.
To fill in or change the values for your abilities, complete the Abilities Exercise in CAREERinsite.
A Quick Guide
You are born with abilities that help you process certain types of information and turn it into action. These abilities influence which skills you can learn more easily.
The abilities or aptitudes shown for this NOC group come from the General Aptitude Test Battery (GATB). The GATB measures 9 aptitudes. It groups them into 3 categories: mental, visual, and physical.
The abilities scores range from 1 to 5, with 5 being stronger.
Modelling is open to men, women and children of all ages. Although appearance is important, the desired look is constantly changing. The basic requirement is that models meet minimum height requirements and are well-proportioned.
Specific age and physical requirements vary depending on the market and type of modelling. For example, international runway models generally must be 5 feet 8 inches to 5 feet 11 inches for women, or 5 feet 11 inches to 6 feet 2 inches for men. They also must fit sizes set by designers, which are generally size 2 to 4 for women, size 40 regular to 42 tall for men. Female plus-size models in the international market usually wear size 10 to 12 and must fit designer sample sizes.
Models need:
Models should enjoy posing and modelling, and working with people from a wide range of backgrounds.
Most successful models have not had formal training in modelling. They were discovered by modelling agents who provide advice and promote their services.
Modelling agencies are always scouting, looking for new talent. Prospective models may submit photographs or attend agency open calls to obtain free assessments of their potential.
Before contacting modelling agencies, prospective models should learn as much as possible about each agency and how the agency recruits models. Agencies generally expect models to pay for promotional expenses, such as photographs, composite cards, website promotion and courier costs. Agencies may prefer to use their own photographers for test shots.
There are no minimum education requirements, but employers generally prefer to hire high school graduates and encourage young people to finish high school. Courses in visual arts, drama, physical education, cosmetology and financial management are recommended. At the very least, models must be able to read contracts and keep track of their bookings and expense receipts.
A number of modelling agencies offer training programs for prospective models. Before enrolling in a program, aspiring models are strongly advised to check the reputation of the agency and the content of the training program.
To expand or narrow your program options, visit Post-Secondary Programs and start your search with:
Completing a program does not guarantee entrance into an occupation. Before enrolling in an education program, prospective students should look into various sources for education options and employment possibilities. For example, contact associations and employers in this field.
There is currently no provincial legislation regulating this occupation in Alberta.
Source: 2021-2025 Alberta Regional Occupational Demand Outlook
Models are self-employed. They usually pay an agent’s commission for each job their agency books for them. Commission rates vary from market to market. Models may have many agents internationally but only 1 agent per market.
In smaller centres, most models work part time. They often are students as well. In larger markets, models may be busy full time. Most work is in print modelling for catalogues, newspapers, magazines, brochures and lifestyle materials. Very few models make it to the international modelling scene in New York, Los Angeles, Tokyo or Europe.
This section shows the industries where the majority of people in this occupation work. The data is based on the 2016 Census.
In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.
Other performers, n.e.c.
2016 NOC: 5232
78.1% of people in this occupational group work in:
NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.
This section shows the short-term demand forecasted for this occupation in Alberta over a 3-year period. It also shows the number of people employed in the occupation.
In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2021 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.
Source: 2023-2025 Alberta Short-Term Employment Forecast
NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.
To see data for all occupations, visit Occupations in Demand.
This section shows the employment outlook for this occupation in Alberta over a 5-year period.
Employment outlook is influenced by a wide variety of factors including:
In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.
Source: 2021-2025 Alberta Regional Occupational Demand Outlook
Annual growth is from 2021 to 2025. New positions created each year are in addition to job openings created by employment turnover.
NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.
Pay rates for models vary considerably depending on the market and the type of modelling. In smaller centres, models may start out by doing free work for local charities, or working in exchange for portfolio samples, products or goods. Well-established models in international markets earn more than those in large Canadian cities, but income earned abroad is taxed by the country in which it is earned.
Since models are self-employed, they must pay all of their business expenses from their earnings, such as agents’ commissions, travel expenses and makeup. Most modelling agencies in Canada charge a commission of 15 to 20%.
Updated Mar 31, 2021. The information contained in this profile is current as of the dates shown. Salary, employment outlook, and educational program information may change without notice. It is advised that you confirm this information before making any career decisions.
