The global modelling industry is finally creaking back into motion after months of lockdowns. But with agencies facing slashed advertising budgets, cancelled fashion shows and digital disruption, can the sector adapt to its new reality fast enough?

The market for products fronted by social media stars is crowded, but the upside can be massive. What are the ingredients to a successful launch?

While Kering moved to ban all models under 18, some of the biggest fashion companies haven’t followed suit.

Operating quietly under the radar, a network of ‘mother agencies’ across Africa and Asia are busy scouting for the next supermodel, making a fortune in commission while boosting diversity in the fashion capitals.

A shift is underway in the modelling world as agencies, publishers and fashion brands are vowing to only work with 18-and-over models. But not everyone is on the same page. 

Social media has turned fashion models into powerful digital publishers, some of whom have far larger audiences than brands or traditional magazines.

This week, Elite World has named Christophe Chenut as chief executive officer and Chris Gay as co-chief executive officer, and Robert Swannell has announced his retirement as chairman of Marks and Spencer.

They may work behind the scenes, but these talent spotters, agents and educators are essential to making the fashion machine tick. Meet the 15 catalysts who are new to the #BoF500 this year.