Model Measurements – Your Quick Guide to Size, Stats, and Fit

If you’re a model, photographer, or brand in Dubai, knowing the right measurements matters. It tells you if a garment will look right, whether a casting call fits, and how to talk numbers with agents. Below you’ll find the basics you need, plus easy ways to keep track of your own stats.

What Numbers Do Agencies Look For?

Every agency asks for a few key numbers: height, bust/waist/hip (BWH), shoe size, and sometimes chest and shoulder width. In Dubai, the most common height range for runway work is 5'9"–6'0" (175‑183 cm). For commercial shoots, agencies accept a broader span, from 5'5" to 6'0". Bust, waist, and hip measurements are usually listed in centimeters. A "standard" commercial model might be around 86‑61‑89 cm (34‑24‑35 in). If you’re a curve or plus‑size model, agencies look for healthy proportions, not a single set of numbers.

When you fill out a profile, list your measurements exactly as you measure them at the studio, not after a yoga session or a night out. Consistency helps casting directors match you to the right job.

How to Measure Yourself Accurately

Grab a flexible tape, stand straight, and keep the tape snug but not tight. Measure:

• Height: from the floor to the top of your head, shoes off.
• Bust: around the fullest part of the chest, keeping the tape level.
• Waist: at the natural narrowest point, usually just above the belly button.
• Hips: across the fullest part of the buttocks.
• Shoe size: in the local UAE system (usually UK or EU sizing).

Do this in front of a mirror or ask a friend to help. Take each measurement twice and write down the average. Update your numbers every three months because bodies change.

Why Size Charts Matter for Brands

Brands in Dubai use local size charts to avoid returns. When you share your measurements with a brand, they can choose the right sample size before a shoot. If you’re a freelance photographer, ask models for their numbers before scheduling. This saves time and prevents mismatched clothing on set.

Many UAE brands also list measurements in inches on international sites. Knowing both centimeters and inches lets you work with global clients without conversion errors.

Tracking Tools and Apps

There are simple apps that let you store your measurements, set reminders for updates, and even calculate body ratios like the classic 36‑24‑36 rule. Look for apps that let you export the data as a PDF – handy when you email agencies.

Spreadsheets work too. Create columns for date, height, bust, waist, hips, shoe, and any notes (e.g., "post‑training" or "after holiday"). Over time you’ll see patterns and know when you’re at your peak for a particular market.

Real‑World Tips from Dubai Models

Many Dubai models say they keep a small mirror in their bag to check posture before a casting. Good posture can make a 5‑cm height difference look smaller. Also, stay hydrated – dehydration can shrink measurements temporarily.

If you’re just starting, focus on getting accurate numbers rather than trying to hit an “ideal” set. Agents respect honesty and will match you to jobs that suit your real shape.

Remember, measurements are a tool, not a judgment. Use them to show professionalism, help brands pick the right clothes, and keep your own progress in check. Keep your numbers up to date, store them safely, and you’ll move through Dubai’s modeling scene with confidence.