Modelling in Milan

July 21, 2006

Milan is arguably the best place in the world to launch an international career. With its numerous magazines and influential designers constantly demanding the newest and hottest models, the city buzzes with tall, thin beauties looking for their break.

Unlike other fashion capitals, Milan has its own Men's fashion week and an association called ASSEM (associazione servizi moda), which brings together several of the city's top agencies to promote a unified voice.

Like most major markets, Italian agencies will forward a lot of the model's travel expenses, and charge it to the model's account. Taxes are quite high however, so you may need to secure a lot of bookings in order to settle that debt.

Karin McCarthy works at G Models in Milan, and shared the following information with Modelresource.

At what age can younger models work in Milan?

14 yrs old - 16 yrs old with parents.

16 yrs old can travel alone, but we need signed documents from their parents stating their permission to travel alone.

What times of year should models not plan to come?

The times not to travel to Milano for work are the traditional holidays ie: Easter, Christmas holidays and, of course, August, as this is the Italian summer holiday.

How easy is it for models to get around the city?

On average for a main market, Milano is easier than any other city to get around. We have the metro/subway system, trams and buses that get you everywhere easily. We even have the Malpensa express train, which gets you directly inside the major international airport, Malpensa, in 40 minutes from the center of Milano. The girls go to the castings by themselves or with other models that are in town.

How much commission do Milan agencies take?

The percentage depends on the job and who the model is. It could be 30%, like it could be 0%.

What else should North American models know?

What models need to know about coming to Milano is that Italians love North Americans, their accent, their lifestyle, and their mentality.