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Petite Model Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tech Designer - Temp

New York, NY · On-site

$50 - $60/hr

... models to analyze balance and proportion of fit. • Document the fit results; deliver clear ... Petite, and Plus size • Keen eye for garment proportion and design aesthetic • Strong ...

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Petite Model information

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$10

$31

$67

How much do petite model jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for petite model in the United States is $31.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $39.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a petite model?

Petite models are fashion models who are shorter than the standard height required for traditional modeling, typically ranging from about 5'1" to 5'7". They specialize in representing clothing and products designed for petite-sized individuals and often work in print, commercial, e-commerce, and catalog modeling. While they may not fit the height requirements for high-fashion runway shows, petite models are in demand for brands targeting a diverse range of consumers. Agencies that represent petite models understand the unique proportions and styling needs required in this market.

What does a petite model do?

A petite model does fashion modeling jobs for clothes that do not require the height of a traditional runway model. As a petite model, your responsibilities include wearing smaller clothes, ranging from a swimsuit to lingerie to fitness clothes, during photo shoots for use in print ads, magazines, and catalogues. You can also be a petite commercial model for home products, food, cars, and anything that is not high fashion. Your duties may also focus on modeling your hands, feet, and other body parts, for example, when demonstrating a children’s toy in a commercial. Petite modeling typically refers to the height of the model rather than the waist size.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a petite model, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Petite Model, you need strong posing skills, body awareness, and a portfolio showcasing versatility, typically with a height between 5'1" and 5'7". Familiarity with the modeling industry's booking platforms, social media for self-promotion, and sometimes modeling agency representation is common. Confidence, professionalism, and adaptability are essential soft skills that help petite models stand out in a competitive market. These qualities ensure you can meet client needs, build a recognizable personal brand, and secure consistent modeling work despite industry height standards.

What are some common challenges petite models face in the fashion industry, and how can they overcome them?

Petite models often encounter challenges such as fewer opportunities for high-fashion runway work and more limited sample sizes, as many designers cater to standard model heights. However, there is growing demand for diversity in modeling, including for petite models in commercial, print, and e-commerce campaigns. Building a strong, versatile portfolio and networking with agencies that specialize in or represent petite talent can help overcome these barriers. Petite models also benefit from maintaining professionalism and adaptability, as they often work closely with photographers, stylists, and brands that seek models who can represent relatable, real-world consumers.

What is the difference between Petite Model vs Plus Size Model?

AspectPetite ModelPlus Size Model
Required CredentialsModeling portfolio, height requirements typically 5'4" and underModeling portfolio, size inclusivity, often no strict height requirement
Work EnvironmentRunway, print, commercial modeling for brands seeking petite framesRunway, print, commercial modeling for plus size fashion brands
Industry UsageFashion, retail, advertising targeting petite demographicsFashion, retail, advertising targeting plus size consumers

Petite Models and Plus Size Models serve different market segments. Petite Models typically have height requirements and work in fashion and commercial campaigns targeting smaller frames. Plus Size Models focus on larger sizes, promoting body positivity and inclusivity in fashion. Both roles require modeling portfolios but cater to distinct industry needs and audiences.

How much do petite models get paid?

Petite models typically earn between $100 and $500 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the type of assignment. Rates can vary widely, with higher-paying jobs often requiring professional portfolios and agency representation.

What cities are hiring for Petite Model jobs?

Cities with the most Petite Model job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Petite Model jobs?

The most popular types of Petite Model jobs are:

What states have the most Petite Model jobs?

States with the most job openings for Petite Model jobs include:

Infographic showing various Petite Model job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,246 per year, or $31.4 per hour.

Tech Designer - Temp

KnitWell Group

New York, NY • On-site

$50 - $60/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


KnitWell Group rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 104 rated fashion retailers


Job description

About us
Talbots is a leading omni-channel specialty retailer of women's clothing, shoes and accessories. Established in 1947, we are known for modern classic style that's both timeless and timely, fine quality craftsmanship and gracious service. At Talbots relationships are the key to our business, we hire individuals who bring new ideas to the table, understand smart risk taking and can enhance an already thriving culture. With a commitment to offer modern classic style for every body type, through a full range of sizes, inclusive to every woman in your life.
About the role
The Technical Designer is responsible for facilitating the transition of apparel styles from design concept and first prototype to a final, production ready prototype. Collaborate with manager, agent partners, sourcing, product development, design, and merchandising to ensure the fit, quality, delivery, and business practices are achieved and upheld. Demonstrate the company's values and practices by maintaining effective collaborative relationships, taking pride in the company and brand, and embracing diversity.
The impact you can have
• Protect brand integrity through fit continuity, upholding construction standards, sizing, and styling consistency.
• Collaborate with business partners to gain clear direction and consensus of fit intent in order to establish the initial spec and construction detail.
• Execute the sample process by generating computerized specification packages.
• Manage the measuring and preparing of samples from development through production approval.
• Conduct fit evaluation sessions on live models to analyze balance and proportion of fit.
• Document the fit results; deliver clear communication through comments / specs / diagrams / photos and review of block patterns.
• Partner with manager for recommendations in regard to garment construction that produces best results to each factory.
• Follow up on e-mails from overseas office regarding comments on fit / construction / while maintaining design integrity.
• Ensure seasonal deadlines are met for their styles; partner with manager to assess next steps when issues arise.
• Participate in departmental and cross-functional meetings as appropriate.
• Remain flexible to the needs of the total department and handle other responsibilities and projects, as assigned.
• Track and manage workflow and workload for product.
• Foster open communication and team environment with all business partners; receive constructive feedback professionally.
You'll bring to the role
• Degree or Certification in Apparel Manufacturing, Design and/or equivalent work experience
• 5-7+ years of garment experience including pattern making, fit, draping, and garment construction
• Maintaining the fit and balance as well as the sizing consistency
• Extended fit experience for Missy, Petite, and Plus size
• Keen eye for garment proportion and design aesthetic
• Strong organizational skills and excellent attention to detail
• Ability to write clear, detailed fit comments with pattern corrections and fit images with Adobe Illustrator
• Garment grade rule knowledge
• Experience in engineering prints, plaids, stripes, embroidery, beading, and novelty fabrics
• Ability to partner and collaborate with cross functional teams as well as agents/vendors
• Excellent communication and people skills; highly organized and detail oriented.
• Strong detail orientation, self-motivated team player with superior interpersonal skills
• Ability to manage competing priorities
Benefits
  • You will be eligible to receive a merchandise discount at select KnitWell Group brands, subject to each brand's discount policies.
  • Support for your individual development plus opportunities for career mobility within our family of brands.
  • A culture of giving back - local volunteer opportunities, annual donation and volunteer match to eligible nonprofit organizations, and philanthropic activities to support our communities. *
  • Medical, dental, vision insurance & 401(K)*
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Time off - paid time off & holidays*
  • The target salary range for this role is: $50 - $60 hourly*
  • On-site: This position works on-site at least 4 days per week consistent with the needs of the business at our Talbots office location in New York, NY.

*Any job offer will consider factors such your qualifications, relevant experience, and skills. Eligibility of certain benefits and associate programs are subject to employment type and role.
Location:
New York OfficePosition Type:
Temporary/Full time
Equal Employment Opportunity
The Company is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from diverse candidates. Hiring decisions are based upon a candidate's qualifications as they relate to the requirements of the position under consideration and are made without regard to sex (including pregnancy), race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, genetic information, military status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other category protected by applicable law. The Company is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for job applicants with disabilities. If you require an accommodation to perform the essential duties of the position you are seeking or to participate in the application process, please contact myHRSupport@knitwellgroup.com. The Company will make reasonable accommodations for otherwise qualified applicants or employees, unless such accommodations would impose an undue hardship on the operations of the Company's business. The Company will not revoke or alter a job offer based on an applicant's request for reasonable accommodation.

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