Fashion’s Reality Check: How We’re Trying to Treat Models Like People, Not Props

We all know the glossy fashion world—the stunning photoshoots, runway moments, and captivating ad campaigns. It’s beautiful to look at, but if you scratch beneath the surface, there’s a side of the industry that doesn’t get talked about nearly enough: how models are treated.

Models are often seen as the ultimate symbols of beauty and glamour, but ironically, the people who bring these visions to life are usually underpaid, overworked, and undervalued. This issue has been quietly simmering for years. While there’s some progress, we still hear too many stories about models being treated as interchangeable, replaceable, and—frankly—disposable.

It’s a strange contradiction, right? In an industry that thrives on celebrating human beauty and individuality, humans are often left out of the conversation.

At equalhumans, we’ve been reflecting on this a lot. As a brand built on values of inclusivity, fairness, and dignity, we realized we need to be more intentional about how we treat the people we work with—especially models.

The Hidden Reality of Modeling

Here’s the reality: modeling isn’t just about walking runways or posing for glamorous shoots. It’s work. And for many models, it comes with significant financial, physical, and emotional risks.

It’s surprisingly common for models to show up for a job and not get paid for months or to be paid only in clothing. When they are paid, a hefty cut often goes to their agency. There’s also the lack of basic protections like guaranteed breaks, proper meals, and safe working conditions. Some models are sent to foreign countries without legal or logistical support, leaving them vulnerable.

It’s a lot to navigate—especially when you consider that many models start working in the industry as teenagers. The pressure to conform to impossible beauty standards, combined with the precarious nature of the job, can take a serious toll on mental and physical health.

It’s no wonder that organizations like the Model Alliance have been fighting for basic workplace protections for models. But it’s not just up to advocacy groups—it’s also about how brands and creatives treat their collaborators.

How We’re Doing Things Differently

Let’s be honest: we don’t have it all figured out. But at equalhumans, we’re committed to making modeling feel more human.

For us, this means fair compensation—paying models on time and ensuring they get what they deserve. It also means creating safe, comfortable environments where models feel like valued collaborators rather than just mannequins. It’s about showing respect in ways that should be standard but, sadly, aren’t always the norm. For example, during our recent Rise & Bloom Fashion Show, we worked with models who shared stories, ideas, and input on their looks. It wasn’t just about what they wore but what they wanted to represent.

We also recognize that representation matters. The fashion industry has long promoted narrow beauty ideals, and we’re trying to break out of that mold. Our models come from all walks of life, with diverse backgrounds, shapes, sizes, and stories. They’re more than their measurements; we want our work to reflect that.

Why This Matters

This conversation is more significant than equalhumans. It’s about the broader fashion culture and the need for more accountability. Fashion is powerful. It shapes how we see ourselves and each other. But for far too long, the people behind the clothes—the models, garment workers, artisans—haven’t been given the dignity they deserve.

If you create something beautiful, it should be done in a way that uplifts everyone involved. That’s what we’re striving for. We’re far from perfect, but committed to learning, listening, and improving.

What You Can Do

Supporting fair treatment in fashion isn’t just about what brands do—it’s about what all of us as consumers choose to support. When you choose to shop from brands that prioritize ethics and transparency, you’re helping to shift the industry. You’re saying, “I care about the people behind my clothes.”

At equalhumans, we’re trying to create fashion that doesn’t just look good but feels good—because it’s rooted in fairness, dignity, and respect. Together, we can help shape a fashion industry that values humans over trends and respects profits.