Understanding Compensation And Perks For Models In The Fashion Industry

The modeling industry often presents an image of glamour, frequently associated with high fashion, exclusive events, and luxury goods. A common question arises regarding the tangible benefits models receive, specifically whether they are allowed to keep the clothing and accessories they wear during professional engagements. The answer is complex and varies significantly based on the nature of the work, the designer's policies, and the model's professional standing. This article examines the standard practices, exceptions, and related considerations such as taxes and resale restrictions, based on available industry information.

Standard Practices: Lending Versus Giving

In most professional scenarios, models do not get to keep the clothes they wear for a job. Designers and stylists typically lend clothing for specific events, photoshoots, or fashion shows with the expectation that the items will be returned after use. This practice is especially prevalent with high-end designers, who often create bespoke pieces that are worth thousands or even millions of dollars. The garments are considered assets of the designer or client and remain their property.

The primary purpose of providing clothing for a modeling job is for the specific use during that project, not as a gift or compensation for the model's time. The value derived from the job is the modeling fee—the payment for time and image usage rights—negotiated by the model's agency, not the acquisition of the clothing itself.

The likelihood of keeping items can depend on the type of assignment:

• Editorial Photoshoots and Fashion Shows: Clothes are almost always lent and must be returned. These are often high-value, unique, or custom-made items that the designer needs back for other purposes or to maintain control over their inventory.
• Commercial Photoshoots: The policy may vary. It depends on the client and the designer’s policies. Sometimes, commercial clients may have more flexibility, but it is not a guarantee.
• Showroom Appointments: Whether a model can keep clothing in this setting may depend on the designer’s policies and the model’s level of influence.

Exceptions: When Models May Keep Clothing

While the standard practice is to return clothing, there are exceptions. Established models with a strong reputation and a large social media following may be gifted clothes or accessories by designers as a token of appreciation or for promotional purposes. These gifts can range from simple items to custom-made gowns.

Additionally, some models may be able to purchase clothes at a discounted rate or receive a special allowance from a designer. This often occurs when a model is part of a designer’s inner circle or has a long-standing relationship with the brand. In some cases, if shipping back low-cost samples is uneconomical, or if an item has been heavily used, a brand may simply write off the product rather than incurring the expense of return logistics.

Social Media and Influencer Marketing

The rise of social media has significantly changed the dynamics of how models receive free products. Top models with millions of followers have become influencers, and designers are often willing to provide free products in exchange for promotional posts, stories, or mentions on social media channels. This has led to a system where models trade their influence for clothes, accessories, and sometimes cash.

This practice, often referred to as "gifting," is distinct from keeping clothes from a photoshoot or fashion show. Designers send free products hoping for a feature on a model's Instagram feed. This can be a lucrative perk, though it has also led to some backlash regarding transparency and authenticity in sponsored posts.

Resale and Tax Considerations

Resale Restrictions

Even when models do receive free clothes, there are often restrictions on reselling them. Many designers have strict policies against models reselling gifted clothes, especially if they were given for promotional purposes. Designers may view unauthorized resale as an unauthorized use of their brand and intellectual property. However, models may be able to sell clothes that are no longer needed for promotional purposes or have been worn previously through their own social media channels, online marketplaces, or consignment shops specializing in high-end fashion.

Tax Implications

In the United States, models are generally considered to have received income in the form of free clothes. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) views these items as a form of compensation or income, especially if received in exchange for modeling services. Models may be required to pay taxes on these items. The value of the clothes is typically determined by the designer or client, and models must report this income on their tax returns. To accurately report income, models are advised to keep detailed records of the clothes they receive, including the value, the client, and the date received.

Accessories and Other Perks

Accessories

Models typically do not get to keep the accessories they wear on set, such as jewelry, handbags, or shoes. These items are usually provided by the stylist or client and remain their property unless otherwise agreed upon. However, some models may be able to negotiate to keep certain accessories, especially if they are not high-end or bespoke pieces. Models may also receive gifts or free products from accessory designers who want to promote their brand through the model’s social media channels or public appearances.

Other Compensation and Perks

Beyond the modeling fee, models often receive non-cash benefits and perks. These can include paid travel and accommodation for destination shoots. Models frequently receive free beauty products, makeup, and skincare items used on set, which are gifted by the brand or the makeup artist. The exposure gained from the work also provides networking opportunities and career advancement. Some fashion companies hold employee or industry-only sample sales where models, stylists, and company personnel can purchase items at a significant discount.

Conclusion

The question of whether models get to keep their clothes does not have a simple yes or no answer. It depends on multiple factors, including the type of assignment, the designer’s policies, the model’s level of influence, and the specific agreements made. While the standard industry practice is to lend clothing for professional use and expect its return, exceptions exist, particularly for influential models and through social media gifting. Models must also be aware of potential tax liabilities on gifted items and restrictions on reselling them. Ultimately, the primary compensation for a model’s work is their fee, with clothing, accessories, and other perks serving as secondary benefits that vary widely across assignments.

Sources

1. Do Models Keep Their Clothes?
2. Do Models Get to Keep the Clothes They Model?