Over recent years Models Direct has been encouraged by distinct signs that diversity in the fashion and modelling industry continues to grow. These days we see more models of colour, plus-size models and models with disabilties in advertising campaigns. Another recent trend has seen a notable rise in the use of models over 30, whether they be mature models such as 80 year old supermodel Carmen Dell’Orefice – or younger, 30 plus models – such as the stunning 32 Brazilian supermodel Gisele Bundchen.

It seems that the industry has finally accepted the virtues of the older model and that, as we head into 2012, to be over the age of thirty is no longer a negative for today’s model. In fact it appears that it may now present a distinct advantage. Significant campaigns that booking agents and models at Models Direct have recently noticed involving 30 plus models include; 30 year old Adriana Lima for Donna Karan, 34 year old Guinevere Van Seenus for Mui Mui and Prada, 31 year old model Mariacarla Boscono for YSL, 30 year old model Saskia de Brauw for Chanel and of course the ever popular and incredibly beautiful Gisele Bundchen who will represent Givenchy, Salvatorre Ferragamo and Versace amongst others during 2012.

This situation seems to be particularly relevant right now due to current 1950s inspired fashion, makeup and hair trends that lend themselves to the more mature and sophisticated woman. Models Direct absolutely loves these glamourous looks and are delighted to see them being embraced by celebrities and models alike. There is no denying that this style looks fantastic on the more mature lady – just think Dita Von Teese and you will see what we mean. The nod towards all things 50s may have been inspired by movie My Week with Marilyn which came out last November. The film starred 31 year old Michelle Williams who recently won ‘best actress in a comedy or musical’ at the a Golden Globes for her role as Marilyn. Other fashion heroines of the 1950s include Audrey Hepburn and Jackie Kennedy. These are ladies whose style was simply timeless.

The move towards favouring older models also comes shortly after high profile brands such as Mui Mui and Vogue have been slammed for the use of teen, or tween, models in campaigns labelled as ‘inappropriate’, which is likely another influencing factor for the lean towards favouring the 30 plus model. Girls and guys here at the MD modelling agency see no reason to get tween models to do the job of a more mature model, and while we adore many campaigns where child models are allowed to be children, we also give the current move towards an industry that does not write models off as they grow older a huge thumbs up!

What do you think about this increase in the use of models over 30?