Celebrating a quarter-century of shaping the modeling world, Models.com has finally stepped into the spotlight—and it’s about time! Known for being the go-to digital hub for models, agencies, and artists, the platform rarely takes center stage. But for its 25th anniversary, it broke tradition with a star-studded dinner on Tuesday, marking its first-ever event to kick off NYFW (https://wwd.com/tag/nyfw/). And let’s just say, the guest list was chef’s kiss. Paloma Elsesser, Georgia Fowler, Grace Elizabeth, Alton Mason, Jill Kortleve, and Calum Harper were among the luminaries filling the room at Blue Ribbon Sushi Izakaya, proving that Models.com knows how to throw a party—and curate a crowd.
But here’s where it gets fascinating: Models.com didn’t start as the industry titan it is today. Editor-in-Chief Stephan Moskovic reminisced about its humble beginnings: ‘When we launched, all we had was a top 50 ranking.’ And it wasn’t long before they ruffled some feathers. ‘We got an email from David Bonnouvrier at DNA,’ Moskovic recalled, ‘asking, ‘Who the f–k are you guys? Where do you get your information?’ That’s when we knew we’d struck a nerve.’ From there, the platform evolved organically, growing into the indispensable resource it is today.
And this is the part most people miss: The real game-changer came in 2008 when Models.com opened its database to the public. Before that, rankings were based on covers, editorials, shows, and campaigns—all meticulously tracked. But by allowing industry professionals to claim their own pages and showcase their credits, Models.com became more than just a database; it became a stamp of authority. ‘Today,’ Moskovic explained, ‘if you’re in the industry, you have your Instagram and your Models.com page. The latter gives you credibility—it’s the industry’s seal of approval.’
But here’s the controversial part: In an era where social media reigns supreme, does a Models.com page still hold the same weight? Some argue that Instagram and TikTok have democratized modeling, while others insist that a Models.com profile remains the ultimate validation. What do you think? Is Models.com still the gold standard, or has the industry outgrown it? Let’s debate in the comments—because after 25 years, one thing’s for sure: Models.com has left an indelible mark, but its future is as dynamic as the industry it serves.
