The Difference Between Fashion Models and Catwalk Models

Experienced New York-based fashion model Veronika Gomeniouk works for Ford Models. Through the agency, Veronika Gomeniouk has served as a model for high-profile companies such as Bumble & Bumble, Nike, and LuLuLemon.

For many, fashion and catwalk models are one and the same. Both professionals model for fashion shoots or walk the runway, and both showcase outfits and other fashion items. However, fashion models and catwalk models are two different types of models.

Fashion models, or editorial models, are usually seen in magazines such as Harper’s Bazaar and Vogue. They work for top fashion labels and are, on average, at least 5 feet, 9 inches tall. These professionals are usually very slim and have measurements around 33 inches at the bust, 33 inches at the hips, and 23 inches around the waist. Fashion models also must be photogenic, know their good angles, and be skilled in positioning the body to be flattering.

Meanwhile, runway or catwalk models require more physical skills, such as being able to spin or walk backward in different types of clothing. At minimum, these individuals are 5 feet, 9 inches tall, but there is a preference for taller female catwalk models who are about an inch or two taller. Since designers find runway models to fit into their clothes, rather than designing clothes to fit a particular model, catwalk models are usually held to a stricter size standard than fashion models. Generally, such models do not have measurements that exceed 34 inches at the hips and bust, and 23 inches at the waist.