Fashion Models' Agents

Since the early 20th century, models have been used to show off articles of clothing, shoes, and other accessories. Some models became successful due to the team of professionals working behind the scenes on their behalf. The 1960s saw a number of models become popular celebrity figures, noted not only for their modeling work but also for the image and lifestyle they portrayed. Jean Shrimpton, Twiggy, and Varushka, often referred to as the original "supermodels"—highly paid, internationally famous models—were well known in and out of the fashion industry. In the early days of the fashion industry, models were the products of modeling schools, which also monitored their work schedules. However, as the industry grew and individual models became successful, models often needed, and relied, on someone to manage and organize their careers. Thus, modeling agencies developed to fill this niche.

Ford Models Inc., an agency founded in 1946 by Eileen and Jerry Ford, was one of the first modern agencies devoted to promoting the career of the fashion model. The agency made fashion history by negotiating the first big money contract between model Lauren Hutton and Revlon. Today, Ford Models is an industry leader, employing many talented agents and scouts internationally to represent hundreds of the world's top models. It has offices in the U.S., France, Spain, and Brazil.