Mature Models: How Older Models Are Proving Beauty & Success Have No Limits

With the average supermodel’s age around 21, the modelling industry is a young person’s game – or rather, it used to be. There is a new wave of mature, older models who are proving beauty definitely doesn’t have an age limit.

Meet some of the top older models in the business.

Successful Older Models

Daphne Selfe

Daphne is the world’s oldest supermodel – and even has a Guinness World Record to prove it. At 92, she has been modelling since she was 21 years old and claims to be busier now than she was then. Daphne says she only became a ‘top model’ after she turned 70. She has worked for Dolce and Gabbana, Nivea and Olay.

Jacky O’Shaughnessy

Jacky is 65 years old, and found fame when she was scouted at 60. You may recognise her from her famous American Apparel ads, or her campaign with Diesel. She has also walked the runway in New York. Her advice is never to give up or face the facts – persevere and remain positive.

Maye Musk

Maye Musk is the mother of Elon Musk, but she is also famous in her own right. Aged 69, she has been modelling for over 50 years.

Check out this video for Maye’s skincare routine:

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Tyra Banks

Tyra Banks was a hugely popular supermodel in the 90’s. We are mentioning her here because, at age 45, she became the oldest model to grace the cover of the Sports Illustrated Swimwear Edition.

Naomi Campbell

Another 90’s supermodel, Naomi is also still successful as a model. In 2019 at age 49 she got her first cosmetics campaign with the cosmetics brand NARS.

How to Have a Successful Modelling Career as an Older Model

If modelling is your dream, you shouldn’t let your age hold you back! While most top fashion models are in their early 20’s, the above proves that there is success to be had well into your 60’s.

To succeed. you must have a strong modelling portfolio. Your portfolio should showcase your best images and show to brands and agencies that you have range as a model. Include close-up beauty shots as well as full-length body shots in your portfolio. Prove to agencies that you are comfortable in front of the camera.

Getting signed to an agency is a key way to find success as it will take all the stress out of finding auditions to attend. Getting signed can be tricky but its the best way to do well as a model. Research which brands exist within the senior modeling world and apply to agencies who work with them.

Remember that top models must travel to places like London, Paris, Milan and even New York. Modelling cn be gruelling and tiring so it’s important to eat well and work out to remain fit and active.

You will not be expected to have a perfect body as an older model, but you will be expected to fit into a certain clothing size. An hourglass body shape is deemed attractive no matter what your age. A tight jawline, toned muscles and strong profile will also be a benefit. 

Like all models, mature models must lead a healthy lifestyle and remain on top of their beauty regimes. All models have a skincare routine and most know how to apply their own makeup.

Keep on top of current trends and fashion by reading magazines and using social media. Follow other female models for inspiration.

Don’t feel that you have to hide your age; most mature models don’t try to mask their grey hair. Instead, they take good care of it by getting regular trims and using hydrating masks to keep hair silky soft and shiny.

Most older models find work as commercial models, but the above proves that there is work to be found in high fashion and on the runway.

Ready to give it a go? Register with us today to find out if you have what it takes!