Models aged 18 to 30 are usually simply referred to in the fashion and advertising industry as Mainboard Models, since they make up the classic core age group of a model agency.

Depending on the exact field of work, however, there are more specific terms:

• Commercial Models: Models in this age group who are booked for everyday advertising, catalogs, brochures, or TV commercials. The focus here is on an approachable, likable look.

• Editorial / High-Fashion-Models: Models (often aged 18 to approx. 25) who work for haute couture, runways, and high-end fashion magazines.

• New Faces: Models who are just at the beginning of their careers (usually between 16 and 22) and are being newly developed by an agency.

This group can be distinguished from Teen Models (under 18) and Best-Ager / Mid-Ager Models (usually from 30 to 55) and Silver or Senior Models (55+).

Knowing which board you are on helps you understand which clients and jobs your agency is proposing you for. Age is only one criterion; look, experience and your goals matter too. Talk openly with your agency about whether you are being developed more for commercial or high-fashion work, so your plans line up.

See also: Advertisement, Editorial, Haute couture, New Face I Newcomer Model, Teen model, Mid-ager model, Senior Model.