They are one of the biggest names in the fashion world, providing world class talent to magazines, designers and ad companies all over the world. I am talking about the infamous Ford Models. It’s the agency where every new model strives to sign a contract. Ford Models is not only a modeling agency, but the name itself has become synonymous with top-shelf beauty and high fashion. Ford Models is a global company with offices in nine major cities around the world, including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami, Toronto, San Francisco, Milwaukee, Sao Paulo, and Paris.
Ford Models was founded in 1946 by Eileen and Gerald “Jerry” Ford. For many years following its inception, Ford Models remained the premier agency in New York. In the 1980’s more agencies started opening, including their major competition at the time, Elite Models, started by John Casablanca. Since then, more and more agencies are now competing with Ford Models. In 1995, Ford Models was taken over by Jerry and Eileen’s daughter, Katie Ford. Katie expanded Ford’s look to include more unpredictable faces, as the standard of beauty continued to evolve. In 2007, John Caplan became Ford Models’ Chief Executive Officer, and currently runs the agency.
As a way to find new faces and boost publicity, in 1980, Ford Models began the “Ford Supermodel of the World Contest,” which still runs and draws over 60,000 contestants from over 40 countries per year. Ford Models continues to scout for new faces, keeping their roster fresh and exciting.
There are over 100 talent managers and 2500 models working for Ford Models today. They not only represent models, but other fashion artists as well, including everyone from hair stylists, make-up artists, manicurists, stylists, set designers, prop stylists, photographers, and art directors. Recently, they have expanded with a media division as well, including a YouTube channel and a blog with updates of their models, talent, beauty tips and other notable art happenings.
Ford Models has represented some A-list actresses, including Lindsay Lohan, Kirsten Dunst, Mischa Barton, and Jennifer Connelly. They are most well known for producing some of the world’s top supermodels, including Christie Brinkley, Rachel Hunter, Elle MacPherson and Stephanie Seymour.
Ford Models remains one of the largest and strongest modeling agencies today. One look at their website, and you will see why. They have an impressive array of unique and classic beauties that represent a perfect slice of beauty around the world. Ford Models is constantly looking for new talent. For submission information and requirements visit their main website at www.fordmodels.com.
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