Modelling and fashion might be more of a woman’s industry, but men have certainly made their mark too. We take a look at some of the top male models in the world.
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1. David Gandy
David Gandy is a name you’ve likely heard of. While not many male models become household names, David Gandy is a model who has managed to reach the same level of international fame and fortune as top female supermodels.
An English model, Gandy found fame after he won a televised model search competition. High-fashion brand Dolce & Gabbana took an immediate like to him and featured him in their campaigns and on their runway for several years.
Gandy is muscular, which is unlike regular male model physiques. It caused some menswear designers to change their standards and begin to accept a less strict body type.
2. Tyson Beckford
Considered to be one of the most successful black male models of all time, Tyson Beckford is most famous for working with Ralph Lauren Polo.
The New York native furthered his career by appearing regularly on TV shows like ‘Make Me a Supermodel’ and ‘America’s Next Top Model’.
3. Sean O’Pry
Born in Georgia, American model Sean O’Pry was scouted at age 17 due to his attractive prom photos on the old social media platform MySpace.
He has worked for top brands including Calvin Klein, Versace, Giorgio Armani, Louis Vuitton, Dolce & Gabbana and Marc Jacobs.
You may recognise Sean in Taylor Swift‘s Blank Space music video; he features as her love interest.
4. Jon Kortajarena
Jon is a Spanish model and was discovered while on holiday in Barcelona after attending a fashion show with a friend.
Now residing in London, his impressive modelling CV features brands including Lacoste, Tom Ford, Chanel, Just Cavalli and Bulgari.
5. Luka Sabbat
Luka is an American model and influencer. He was discovered at the age of 15 while out drinking hot chocolate with his Dad. He grew up around fashion; his father was a fashion designer and his mother was a model booker and production assistant.
He’s worked with Calvin Klein and Hood By Air, as well as the Yeezy first and second season shows. His large Instagram following has people called him the ‘Gen-Z’ mode of the moment.
6. Lucky Blue Smith
Lucky is an American model who was scouted at the age of 10 and signed at the age of 12.
Smith was advised to dye his hair platinum blond, which was a signature look and got up a lot of attention. He has worked for Tom Ford, Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Armani and Marc Jacobs to name a few.
7. Evandro Soldati
Brazilian model Evandro Soldati began modelling when his mother signed him up for a modelling competition. He has worked for Louis Vuitton, Valentino, Abercrombie & Fitch, Guess, Dolce & Gabbana, and Armani.
8. Oliver Cheshire
British model Oliver Cheshire was scouted at 15 by Select Model Management.
It was famously reported that, after he featured in a Marks & Spencer swimwear campaign, their sales went up by 50%.
Cheshire is also a writer and has reported on Men’s Fashion Week for GQ magazine. He also writes a fashion blog in his spare time.
He is engaged to popstar Pixie Lott.
9. Johannes Huebl
German model Johannes Huebl started his modelling career age 17 and has worked for Hugo Boss, Ralph Lauren and Dunhill. He has also collaborated with Tommy Hilfiger.
Johannes is also a pro behind the camera and has shot both covers and editorials for a host of publications including Elle Spain and Harper’s Bazaar Mexico.
He is married to socialite Olivia Palermo.
10. Billy Huxley
East Londoner Billy Huxley used to be a roofer until he was noticed for his alternative good looks. Billy is covered in tattoos and has worked with brands like ASOS, Ellesse, Jack & Jones, Mango, Next and Puma. He is also the face of Sebastian Hair.
Who is the Top-Earning Male Model?
According to Forbes, the highest-earning male model is Sean O’Pry who is reported to have made $1.5 million. David Gandy is a close second at $1.4 million.
How to Become a Successful Male Model
Becoming a successful model is more difficult for men than it is for women. Men don’t tend to get as big and there are fewer opportunities. However, as the above proves, that doesn’t mean it’s impossible.
Finding a good agent is a key step to helping your chances of success as a male model. Joining a modelling agency can be tricky as it is fiercely competitive, but you can apply to as many as you like as many times as you like. Try to find agencies who work regularly with male models and who represent models you aspire to be like.
Try to find yourself lots of experience. Images can be included in your modelling portfolio and it will be good practice in front of the camera. These experiences will likely be unpaid but may include freebies and the experiences will be incredibly valuable for your career.
Your modelling portfolio needs to stand out from the crowd and contain up to 20 images showing off your versatility as a model. Include both close-up beauty shots and full-length body shots to give brands and agencies a good impression of your overall look.
Don’t become despondent if you are rejected. Most models face rejection throughout their career as modelling is all about interviewing for jobs. Only one of two people will be selected and you will never be everyone’s cup of tea. Keep going and have patience.
Build a good social media presence; Instagram is the most popular. If you can build a good following, brands and agencies will notice you and may even reach out to collaborate.
Watch the video below for some tips on how to be a male model: