Model CV Examples & UK Templates

We won’t sugarcoat it — breaking into the modelling industry is tough. By staying persistent and putting your best face forward, you can show an agency or other employer that you have what it takes. A head-turning model CV can help you get there.

Whether you’re creating a CV for modelling work, acting gigs, or another type of employment, Resume.io is here to help. Our collection of 65+ CV examples and writing guides are packed with useful, job-specific information to get you to the next level. Here’s what we’ll cover in this model CV example and writing guide:

• What does a model do?
• How to write a model CV (tips and tricks)
• The best layout for a model CV (with a CV sample)
• Advice on each section of your CV (summary, work history, education, skills)
• Professional CV layout and design hints.

What does a model do?

Models are the people who showcase just about anything needed for modern life. Fashion models are likely the first type that spring to mind. Their jobs can range from wearing the latest collection on catwalks in Paris and Milan to being photographed for magazines or websites.

However, fashion models aren’t the only type of models. There are also fitness models, commercial models, parts (hand and foot) models, and promotional models among others.

In addition to showing off clothing or a product, models may also be asked to take on adjacent tasks like public speaking, hosting events, or even acting gigs.

How to write a model CV

The very first step in writing your model CV is understanding what sections to include. Here are the basic CV sections that you can adapt to your modeling work:

• The CV header
• The CV summary (aka profile or personal statement)
• The employment history section
• The CV skills section
• The education section

While there may be certain situations in which modeling agencies don’t ask CVs of models, as a professional, you may need a CV for other reasons or for related gigs that require you to show experience. Remember to adapt your CV for the specific job you’re applying to by adding in specific skills from the job description.

A modeling CV is all about name dropping, so don’t be shy about mentioning your biggest accomplishments both in the summary and employment history of your CV. You should also include a link to your portfolio where a potential employer can review images from your previous shoots.

Choosing the best CV format for a model

The best CV format for a model will largely depend on the candidate’s experience and their goals for the CV. The standard CV structure is called the reverse chronological CV format. It gets its name from the fact that work experience is listed starting with the most recent position and working backwards through all relevant jobs of the past 10 years.

However, other types of CV formats exist. The functional format focuses on skills and doesn’t place much emphasis on the employment history section, while the hybrid model is a combination of the two other types. Find out more about which option is right for you in our guide to CV formatting.

CV header

Every complete CV starts with a header. For models, you’ll want to include a professional headshot and a link to your portfolio. Contact details can include your email address and phone number, along with social media profiles like LinkedIn or Instagram if relevant to your work.

This section calls attention to your name and contact information while offering a touch of attractive formatting. A touch of colour can help your CV stand out from the crowd, but be careful of going overboard. You may want to use different designs depending on the role. When in doubt, a neutral, elegant colour scheme can work for a variety of circumstances.

CV summary example

The CV summary, sometimes called a profile or personal statement, plays an important role in setting the tone and purpose of your application. Since models work in a variety of different settings, the three-to-five freeform sentences of your summary allow you to explain more. 

You should cover who you are, the role you’re applying for, and why you think you’re the ideal candidate. Make sure to call the employer’s attention to any agencies that represent you or any unions or memberships you’re a part of. See our adaptable CV sample below as a guide.

Employment history sample

The employment history sample is the place to capture all your work experience of the past 10 years. Aim to leave off any side jobs or non-modeling related work if possible (unless of course those side jobs are relevant to a specific modeling gig!). 

Make sure to list the employer, dates worked and scope of the project. This section needn’t be as rigid as it is in other industries — feel free to adapt it to your particular needs and experiences. See our adaptable employment history CV sample below.

CV skills example

The skills section can be one of the trickiest areas to master since the entire CV is about your skills! Be specific here. The goal of this section is to make sure the hiring manager hasn’t missed any key competencies they’re looking for. 

Make sure to use job-specific language and to highlight your areas of expertise. You can include your personal characteristics like height here as well. See our adaptable skills CV sample below.

Model CV education example

Models aren’t necessarily required to have formal education, but that doesn’t mean you should leave off this valuable CV section. Showcasing any qualifications you have might give you the fighting edge. Be sure to cover the basics — i.e. your school, college and university education.

The education section gives the employer some background about you and is even more important if you’ve completed some courses or classes related to modeling. This section can also serve as a catch-all for any awards, certifications, or memberships you may hold. See our adaptable CV example below.

CV layout and design 

You work in the field of appearances and first impressions, so the layout and design of your CV plays a huge role in how the employer will perceive you. Make sure to choose a design that’s eye-catching without coming across as too flashy or eccentric. 

A layout that conveys class and professionalism will usually do the trick. Luckily, an expertly-designed CV template can help you find the balance. Here are some more tips to help your CV strut its stuff:

Before you submit your CV, take a closer look at the job description and application portal to see whether the employer has specified a file type for your document. When submitting online, a .docx file is sometimes preferred. If nothing is specified, a PDF is usually the way to go as the structure will not change between computers. PDF is also the best file type for printing or emailing your CV.

Key takeaways for a model CV

1. Modelling can be a tough industry to get started in but a great CV is key to putting your best self on display.
2. Make sure to adapt your CV to the role you’re applying for by adding key language from the job description.
3. Your CV structure doesn’t have to be rigid — choose the structure that works for you.
4. Your header should contain essential information like a headshot and link to your portfolio. See how this is done in our modelling CV sample.