Despite the raging debate over size zero and a lot of very skinny women on the catwalk, modelling has undergone radical changes in the last decade. It’s far more diverse than ever before, and the idea that you have to be the right size and the right height has given way to the idea that there is no right size and right height. Modern modelling has a place for slim, athletic women (and men!) and a place for gorgeous curvy size 16s- and neither one is going to be more valued than the other, at least by forward-thinking modelling agencies.

There are a few essentials that you do need. Good skin of whatever shade is a must, although don’t worry if you’ve got freckles, for example. You might find them a great asset, not a barrier or something to cover up. Your hair needs to be well looked after in whatever style. Shiny, healthy, no split ends or flakes. Nails need to be neat at the very least. Makeup should generally be as subtle as possible- although nothing is stopping you going outrageous for a couple of portfolio pictures. It’s got to be well done, though. Get a professional or a seriously talented amateur to help you out.

What you don’t need to do is look of dress the same as every other modelling hopeful. Unless you are an absolutely stunning one in a million beauty- and 999,999 out of that million won’t be- you need to find ways to stand out from the crowd. Do some research, do a lot of experimentation, and build a look that’s right for you.

Remember, you’re not trying to be a catwalk model straight away. Pretty much all models start by doing small advertising jobs, and for those modelling agencies need to keep a diverse list of models with all kinds of different looks and body types.