Should you become a model?
Despite the glamour and hype you have seen about the modeling profession, it's hard work. It's boring (sometimes). It's tedious. It's filled with rejection, ups and downs, It's a lifestyle, not an 8-5 job. Not all jobs pay well.

Unless you are seriously committed about modeling, willing to work at it on your own time, live a healthy life style, etc., you will not succeed as a model.

You have to understand that there are lots of other people who want to be models. They are doing everything they can to be successful. Are you willing to put the time and energy into competing with these people, 24 hrs a day?

Despite its drawbacks, modeling can be fun, exciting, and adventurous.

Be sure to maintain realistic expectations however, the odds of becoming a highly successful or famous model are slim.

Famous models: Recently we had Madhu Sapre and Mehr Jesia, now it's Bipasha Basu and Aishwarya Rai, there are not many at the top!

Measurements
The best measurements for modeling are 5'9" , 34b bust, 24" waist, 34" hips. If you are within one inch of these measurements you will be very versatile to model almost anything.

High Fashion models are typically 5'7" to 6' tall and an extremely thin size 7 with 32-35" bust, 22-25" waist and 33-36" hips. They are not necessarily classically beautiful.

PETITE measurements would be 5'5" to 5'8" tall and a size 5 to 7. The model MUST have a well-proportioned body. PLUS SIZE models are 5'7" to 5'11" tall and wear a size 12 to 14, have a well-toned and proportioned body with a thin face, good skin and beautiful hair. Always provide very accurate measurements to the agency and to customers. (Helps to save embarrassment if you get hired for a job and the clothes don't fit because you were not honest). For a man, heights should be 5'11" to 6'2" and you must fit in a 40-42" jacket.

The ultimate test for an aspiring Model
Well almost... Send your photo and resume to reputable coordinators. Setup an appointment and you will find out very quickly if you have what it takes. These people are very busy, if they don't like the photo you won't get an appointment. If they like it you will be invited for an assessment. Then again if you don't have what it takes they will tell you on the spot. (they want quality models).

If rejected don't give up yet!
Each coordinator/agency is different and has different expectations and requirements from their models. Always ask about any immediate physical changes (haircut, weight loss, skin treatment, dental work etc.) and work on it for the future. Some coordinators/established models offer good training(in the form of workshops/courses) for local fashion shows and print work. This can be a great way to gain confidence and experience.