New York City is, without a doubt, the top global fashion capital. A city that breathes life into iconic brands and launches the careers of many famous supermodels. For models from around the world, getting represented by one of NYC’s top agencies is often a dream come true. However, the competition is tough, with thousands trying for limited spots each year.
This guide evaluates some of New York’s most prestigious modeling agencies, their requirements, notable clientele, and tips for getting scouted. So, here are the top 20 modeling agencies in NYC as of 2024.
DNA Models
- Website: https://www.dnamodels.com/
- Instagram: @dnamodels
Founded in 1996 by Jerome and David Bonnouvrier, DNA quickly gained renown for its personalized approach and commitment to excellence. Their Specialities include print, runway, and commercials. They have high-engagement social media accounts like Instagram, with over 463k followers.
DNA Model Management collaborates with global luxury companies and top fashion publications. This includes American Vogue, French Vogue, Harpers Bazaar, W, and V magazines. Some of their notable talents include Linda Evangelista, Amber Valletta, Natalia Vodianova, Raquel Zimmermann and more.
“We have fewer girls than many of our competitors. When we started, we were five agents for one girl. And we know that we can only do that for a few at a time.” – David Bonnouvrier, DNA Founder.
Ford Models
- Website: https://fordmodels.com/
- Instagram: @fordmodels
Established in 1946, Ford Models is one of the longest-running and most prestigious agencies worldwide. Their specialties include runway, print, commercials, hair styling, makeup artistry, art direction. They have well-established social media accounts including Instagram with over 936k followers.
Beyond modeling, the agency expanded into representing talent in the hair, makeup, and wardrobe industries through Ford Artists. Some of their notable talents include Sigrid Agren, Daniel di Tomasso, and more.
Heroes Model Management
- Website: https://www.heroesmodels.com/
- Instagram: @heroesmodels
Heroes Model Management was established in 2015 by Julien Miachon with a mission to disrupt the “disposable model” culture. They are known for their progressive, inclusive approach. They mostly focus on editorial, runway, and commercials.
They are popular on social media, with over 62.3K Instagram followers. Some of their notable talents include Jourdan Love, Amy Wesson, Bentley Mescall, Dara, and many more.
IMG Models
- Website: https://www.imgmodels.com/
- Instagram: @imgmodels
Founded in 1989, IMG Models is a true industry heavyweight representing A-list talent globally. Some of their notable talents include Gigi and Bella Hadid, Ashley Graham, Kate Moss etc. They focus on runway, print, and commercials.
The agency has no strict height, weight, or age restrictions and mostly focuses on unique, marketable looks. They have a good social presence with over 2 million Instagram followers.
JAG Models
- Website: https://jagmodels.com/
- Instagram: @jagmodels
JAG Models was founded in 2013 by Jaclyn Sarka and Gary Dakin. JAG Models is a progressive agency making waves for its commitment to diverse representation across all body types, genders, and races. Some of their notable talents have been featured in Vogue Italia and major fashion weeks.
They specialize in high-fashion editorial and runway. JAG has a good social media presence with over 89.4K Instagram followers and a highly engaged community.
The Lions
- Website: https://www.thelionsmanagement.com/
- Instagram: @thelionsmgmt
Founded in 2014, The Lions has established itself as an international trendsetter representing influential models. The CEO of the agency is Julia Kisla. The Lions’ specialties include runway, print, and commercials.
Some of their popular talents include Amanda de Cadenet, Anne V, Aya Jones etc. They have a good social presence with over 209K Instagram followers.
Marilyn Agency
- Website: https://www.marilynagency.com/
- Instagram: @marilynagencyny
Established in Paris in 1985, Marilyn has grown into a global powerhouse with offices in NYC, Paris, and LA. Marilyn Agency was founded by Marilyn Gauthier, and she sold it in 2012. The agency is currently owned by Marie Halley.
They have worked with Chanel, Gucci, Dior, etc. Marilyn Agency specializes in high-fashion editorial, runway, and commercials. They have an Instagram following of 217k.
Muse NYC
- Website: https://www.musenyc.com/
- Instagram: @musemodelsnyc
Launched in 2007 by Conor Kennedy, Muse is renowned for its boutique, personalized approach. They specialize in editorial, commercial, theatrical, and creative booking.
They have highly engaged 156K Instagram followers.
New York Model Management
- Website: https://www.newyorkmodels.com/
- Instagram: @newyorkmodels
New York model Management was founded in 1990 by Heinz Holba. They have a global presence with offices across NYC, Europe, and Asia. Some of their notable talents include Sui He, Meghan Collison, and Amy Wesson.
They focus on runway, print, and commercials. They have a great social media presence with over 277K Instagram followers.
One Management
- Website: https://www.onemanagement.com/
- Instagram: @onemanagement
One Management was founded by Scott Lipps in 2001. One Management is a premier agency celebrating diversity and individuality. Some of their notable talents are Anabela Belikava, Anyiel Majok, and Bar Refaeli.
They specialize in innovative multimedia campaigns across fashion, music, television, and film. They have a strong social media presence with over 238k Instagram followers.
The Society
- Website: https://www.thesocietymanagement.com/
- Instagram: @thesocietynyc
The Society was established in 2013 and is part of the Elite World Group in the U.S. The Society also manages Elite Model Look, a global scouting contest.
Some of their famous models include Adesuwa Aighewi, Adut Akech, Fran Summers, Grace Elizabeth, and more. Its social media presence is strong, and it has over 381K Instagram followers.
Supreme
- Website: https://www.suprememanagement.com/
- Instagram: @suprememgmt
Supreme was founded in 2000 as an agency pushing boundaries by representing models with unique, unconventional looks. Their specialties include high-end, exclusive talent management. They focus on the unique looks and personality of the models.
Their notable talents include Katlin Aas, Chunjie Liu, Aira Ferreira, and more. They have a good social media presence with over 205K Instagram followers.
The Industry
- Website: https://www.theindustrymodelmgmt.com/
- Instagram: @theindustryny
An elite, boutique women’s agency headquartered at the iconic Pier59 Studios in NYC. Federico Pignatelli della Leonessa is the owner of The Industry. They are a part of the Art & Fashion Group Company.
Their specialties include runway, print, and commercials with a focus on exclusivity. They have an Instagram following of 72K active and engaging community.
VNY Models
- Website: https://www.vnymodels.com/
- Instagram: @vnymodels
A prestigious boutique agency founded by Lana Winters and Damian Tomczak, known for its hands-on approach. They focus on launching and managing top supermodel talent globally.
They have an active social media community that includes over 135K Instagram followers.
Wilhelmina
- Website: https://www.wilhelmina.com/
- Instagram: @wilhelminamodels
Wilhelmina was founded in 1967 by model Wilhelmina Cooper. They are a true industry pioneer offering full-service talent management. Some of their notable talents include Demi Lovato, Nicki Minaj, and Barbie Ferreira.
They specialize in runway, print, music, television, and film. They have a social media community that includes over 892K Instagram followers.
Women Management
- Website: https://www.womenmanagement.com/
- Instagram: @womenmanagementny
Women Management was established in NYC in 1988 with a mission to build a diverse, global leader in talent management. Some of their notable talents include Mariacarla Boscono, Isabeli Fontana, and Coco Rocha.
They specialize in Runway, print, and commercials. They have over 299K Instagram followers and an active community.
Zombie Model Management
- Website: https://www.zombiemodels.com/
- Instagram: @zombiemodelmgmt
A reputed, full-service agency representing a diverse array of talent across modeling, acting, sports, and music. Their talents are used to work with Gucci, Victoria’s Secret, Calvin Klein, and more.
They focus on runway, print, and commercials. They have a good social media presence with over 42.3K Instagram followers.
APM Model Management
- Website: http://apmmodels.com/
- Instagram: @apmmodels
APM Model Management is a highly respected agency focused on ethics, talent development, and innovative ideas. Their specialties include representing unique, diverse looks across fashion and lifestyle campaigns.
They have over 27.7K Instagram followers and many more across different platforms.
Major Model Management
- Website: https://majormodel.com/
- Instagram: @majormdelsny
Major Model Management is a global boutique agency bringing decades of expertise to the art of model management. Their specialties include an ethical, family-oriented approach to maximizing opportunities worldwide.
Its social media presence is impressive, with more than 137K Instagram followers.
NEXT Management
- Website: https://www.nextmanagement.com/
- Instagram: @nextmodels
NEXT Management is one of the world’s most renowned modeling agencies with an extensive global presence. Some of their famous talents include Kate Upton, Arizona Muse, Binx, Anna Cleveland.
Their specialties extend to runway, print, and lifestyle campaigns. Their social media presence includes over 984K Instagram followers.
How to Get Scouted and Signed by a Top Agency
Getting signed with an elite NYC agency needs preparation and perseverance. Here are a few steps to improve your chances:
Step 1: Build a Solid Portfolio
- Invest in professionally edited, high-quality photos showcasing your look and versatility across various styles (high-fashion, commercial, lifestyle, etc.)
- Get feedback and guidance from industry experts, and attend open calls.
- Create an engaging portfolio website and social media presence to market yourself.
Step 2: Leverage Social Media
- Instagram is a powerful scouting tool – use relevant hashtags to engage with your target agencies.
- Build a following by sharing your personality and modeling work. Ensure your social profiles are public.
- Collaborate with aspiring photographers/makeup artists for consistent, high-quality content.
Step 3: Attend Open Calls and Go-Sees
- Sign up for email lists and follow your target agencies to stay updated on open call schedules.
- Prepare thoroughly – dress professionally, practice your walk, and prepare your portfolio.
- Ask questions, get feedback, and follow up after the session.
Step 4: Network and Get Referrals
- Attend industry events and connect with working models for advice and referrals.
- Sign up for modeling websites/forums to find legitimate opportunities.
- If you are already working locally/freelance, leverage your existing client connections.
Step 5: Identify Your Niche and Target Agencies
- Evaluate your unique strengths – are you fit for commercial, editorial, or runway work?
- Research agencies representing your “type” of models.
- Specialize early to build a cohesive, focused portfolio.
Step 6: Be Persistent and Professional
- Follow up regularly while avoiding being a nuisance. Set calendar reminders.
- If rejected, seek feedback and re-apply after significant improvements.
- Maintain a positive, gracious attitude throughout the process.
Conclusion
That’s a wrap on our guide to the top 20 modeling agencies in NYC! We hope this will motivate you on your journey towards landing your dream representation.
Remember, passion, hard work, and perseverance are the foundations of success in this highly competitive industry. Wishing you the very best!
