When it comes to the world of fashion, few places can compete with the energy, glamor, and opportunity of New York City. Aspiring models looking to make it big often flock to the Big Apple, hoping to get their big break and producers are looking to cast the right talent for their next project. But with so many incredible modeling agencies in NYC, how do you choose the best one?
At LÜK, we’re all about streamlining the creative process–and that includes consolidating some of the top NYC modeling agencies into one list. So let’s get into it.
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Top Modeling Agencies In New York City
There are so many amazing modeling agencies all over New York that this article is really just a (delicious) taste. Want access to all of them? Join LÜK Network.
To clarify, we’re not a modeling agency. We’re a talent booking platform dedicated to helping producers like you continue to kill in the industry. Our connection and relationship with over 250 agencies across the United States covers the span of any type of talent a creative could cast.
But what about…
A booking specialist? Check. Virtual and in-person casting calls? Check. Talent decks? Check. Payment? Check!
Yep, we do it all–so you don’t have to. You can sit back, relax, and go back to enjoying the creative parts of the production process you so love.
You can get started with LÜK right now. Or enjoy this list of some of the top modeling agencies in New York (in alphabetical order for your convenience).
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DNA
In 1996, Jerome and David Bonnouvrier established DNA Model Management–which quickly became renowned in the fashion and modeling industries. DNA is distinguished for its personalized tactics for each model and its loyalty to excellence. The agency has managed well-known models including Linda Evangelista, Amber Valletta, Natalia Vodianova, Raquel Zimmermann, and Doutzen Kroes.
Website: https://www.dnamodels.com/
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Ford Models
Established in 1946, Ford Models is one of the most notable modeling agencies in the world. With offices in the United States, Europe, and Asia, Ford has a global reach, helping models such as Sigrid Agren and Daniel di Tomasso become internationally-known stars.
In recent years, Ford has extended its portfolio to include hair styling, makeup artistry, nail services, styling, set design, prop styling, art direction, and photography.
Website: https://fordmodels.com/
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Heroes Model Management
Heroes Model Management was founded in 2015 in New York City’s Soho. Their purpose is to break the idea of the “disposable model” and try to give every new face they meet a chance to be an icon of tomorrow. They continue to adapt their management to the latest fashion and societal trends while keeping their models in mind. Some popular models under Heroes Management are Jourdan Love, Amy Wesson, Bentley Mescall, and Dara.
Website: https://www.heroesmodels.com/
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IMG Models
Established in 1989, IMG Models has become one of New York’s most influential modeling agencies. It represents some of the most famous names in the fashion industry, including Gigi and Bella Hadid, Ashley Graham, and numerous others.
In 2013, IMG removed all barriers that had previously been restricting its roster of models to those with a certain height, weight, race, age, and other factors. Also, they restarted their men’s division, which had been on hiatus since 2007.
Website: https://www.imgmodels.com/
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JAG
JAG is a recently established New York modeling agency, but it’s earned its place on this list. JAG models have been featured in many fashion magazines and have participated in some of the world’s most notable fashion shows and campaigns, such as Vogue Italy. In the fashion industry, they are highly sought after and have a distinct policy of representing all sorts of bodies, regardless of size, shape, gender, and race.
Website: https://jagmodels.com/
Social: Instagram
Lions
The Lions Model Management is an international modeling agency that has become one of the most influential players in the industry. Established in 2002 in New York City, the agency has become a trendsetter and leader in fashion and entertainment, representing some of the world’s most iconic and influential models. The Lions Model Management has established itself as a global agency, with offices in Europe, Asia, and the United States.
Website: https://www.thelionsmanagement.com/
Social: Instagram
Marilyn Agency
Established in 1985 in Paris, Marilyn Agency has developed into one of the most renowned and influential modeling agencies for both men and women. Featuring offices in Paris, New York, Los Angeles, and other cities worldwide, the agency has collaborated with some of the most renowned names in the industry, including Chanel, Gucci, and Dior. They aim to create career sustainability for the models and challenge fashion standards by encouraging the latest fashion trends.
Website: https://www.marilynagency.com/
Social: Instagram
Muse NYC
Established in 2007 by Conor Kennedy, Muse Management endeavors to stand out in the growingly corporate landscape of management. They aim to guide their clients to the peak of their careers, whether in the editorial, commercial, or theatrical field. Throughout the world, Muse Management is acknowledged as a pioneer in the world of beauty, representing models of all shapes, sizes, and genders.
In 2023, they created their creative department to foster the talents of the world’s best photographers, stylists, and beauty artists.
Website: https://www.musenyc.com/
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New York Model Management
In 1990, Heinz Holba founded New York Model Management, which has since become one of the most renowned and sought-after modeling agencies worldwide. It has offices in New York, Paris, London, Los Angeles, Milan, Tokyo, and other major cities. Their clientele includes some of the world’s most famous models, such as Sui He, Meghan Collison, and Amy Wesson. As its presence in the fashion world expands, New York Model Management will remain a leader in the modeling industry.
Website: https://www.newyorkmodels.com/
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One Management
ONE Management is a premier modeling agency that celebrates the beauty of diversity. Their models display a brand’s story and experience to their audiences in person and through various online outlets such as print, social media, and video. With a roster of successful models such as Anabela Belikava, Anyiel Majok, and Bar Refaeli, ONE Management merges fashion, music, television, and film to produce innovative international projects.
Website: https://www.onemanagement.com/
Social: Instagram
The Society
Established in New York City, The Society Management is a renowned modeling agency in the Elite World network. It also serves as the U.S. division of the Elite Model Look global contest to find fresh talent. The Society Model Management, Inc. is committed to creating a secure and respectful work environment for all their talent, free of bias or mistreatment. The company firmly stands with the black community in the U.S. and worldwide despite centuries of systemic racism and injustice.
Website: https://www.thesocietymanagement.com/home.web
Social: Instagram
Supreme
Founded in 2000, Supreme is a New York modeling agency that aims to offer something unique by working with models with distinct facial features. As people began to show off their talents on social media, customers started looking for people who went beyond traditional beauty standards. Supreme NY provides exclusive, high-quality talent management.
Website: https://www.suprememanagement.com/home.web
Social: Instagram
The Industry
The Industry is a high-end boutique modeling agency for women located in New York. With an exclusive roster of models, they provide personalized service to each one. Their goal is to discover new talent and help them build successful and long-term careers. Their headquarters in New York City is located in the iconic Pier59 Studios at Chelsea Piers, providing them with unparalleled access to international brands and talent.
Website: https://www.theindustrymodelmgmt.com/
Social: Instagram
VNY
Established by agent Lana Winters and businessperson Damian Tomczak, VNY is an exclusive New York boutique modeling agency specializing in taking unknown models and turning them into famous celebrities. The agency aims to help models build long-lasting and successful careers by taking a hands-on approach. With an unparalleled reputation and a wide range of contacts worldwide, VNY takes pride in discovering “hidden gems” and getting them ready to thrive in the demanding fashion industry.
Website: https://www.vnymodels.com/
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Wilhelmina
Since its founding in 1967 by Dutch model Wilhelmina Cooper, Wilhelmina Models has earned a renowned status as one of the premier talent management agencies in the world. It offers a full range of model management services for women and men, fitness models, entertainers, and musicians such as Demi Lovato, Nicki Minaj, Barbie Ferreira, and many others.
Website: https://www.wilhelmina.com/
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Women
Since it opened in New York in 1988, Women Management has been on a mission to become a global leader in model management. Now, 30 years later, Women has offices in Paris, Milan, and Los Angeles, representing some of the world’s most sought-after fashion talents. Their approach to career development shows a strong balance of creativity and business acumen, which is always in line with the core values of respect, trust, humanity, and social responsibility.
Website: https://www.womenmanagement.com/
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Zombie Model Management
Zombie Model Management is a boutique and full-service mother agency in New York that looks to discover and develop professional careers for their talent. Their team has decades of experience and contributed to the careers of multiple models in campaigns for Gucci, Victoria’s Secret, and Calvin Klein.
Zombie Model Management works with musicians, actors, athletes, and fashion models.
Website: https://www.zombiemodels.com/
Social: Instagram
How to Choose the Right New York Modeling Agency
Are you looking to find the perfect New York modeling agency? New York has a ton of modeling agencies, so how do you know which one is right for you?
As a Model
Before contacting a modeling agency, always, always, always do some research! Put on your Sherlock Holmes hat and get to digging.
Look at their board, the agency’s values on Instagram, and their website to see if their vision aligns with yours. Also, check out their submission and portfolio requirements, any reviews from former and current models at the agency, and target pay if available. It’s super important to be aware of any fees that may be asked of you before signing with the agency. Reputable agencies do not ask for upfront fees.
Lastly, verify the identity of any scout or agency that contacts you directly for your safety. A good agency will have a direct number that you can call to confirm their outreach. To avoid scams, be aware of any requests for money or pictures of you. If this is asked of you, it is best to walk away immediately.
As a Producer
Producers! We know it’s hard, and we can’t express how much we appreciate all your hard work. So, we made the perfect producer platform to make life easier.
LÜK Network makes production management easy, efficient, and compliant with an all-in-one solution for 1099 payroll, crew management, and booking tools.
We’re confident that LÜK’s suite of producer tools may be your perfect solution. 🙂
Contact our sales team now to set up a demo and discover your production management cure-all.
