The Top 10 Modeling Agencies in Chicago
When it comes to finding success in the modeling scene, a few cities might come to mind: New York, Paris, Los Angeles, etc. But there’s a city that’s often left out off the list that really should be mentioned — and that’s Chicago.
Aspiring models can find it all in Chicago — big brands, a variety of fashion, and more. What’s best is that Chicago is home to some great modeling agencies that can help you get the representation you need to jumpstart your career.
A lot of modeling agencies in Chicago have associated offices in New York, Los Angeles, and around the world. Others are exclusive to Chicago but hold a significant presence with top brands in the area.
So whatever your goals are for your modeling career, getting representation in Chicago is a great first step. But it’s important to choose an agency with great relationships and who will truly act in your best interest.
We’ve gathered some information about the top rated and recommended modeling agencies in Chicago, so you can get the representation that’s the best fit for your modeling career goals. These agencies have great reputations and track records for helping talented models like you start, expand, or excel their careers.
Here are the top modeling agencies in Chicago:
1. Select Model Management
In 2019, Select merged with MP Management to create the world’s fastest-growing network of modeling agencies. They have a global presence with additional offices in London, Milano, Paris, Stockholm, Atlanta, Los Angeles, and Miami. Even now, they still believe in their original methods — finding natural, unique looks and talents and helping them become well-known names in the fashion world.
Website: selectmodel.com
Address: 400 N Michigan Ave #700, Chicago, IL
Phone: (312) 943-3226
Specialty: Lifestyle
2. 10 MGMT
10 MGMT was founded in 2013 by David Sanchez, a renowned model and agent who benefits from having been on both sides of the camera in this modeling career. Therefore, he truly understands the needs of models and actors as well as what makes a great client relationship. He works with a variety of talents including fashion, lifestyle, plus-size, and more.
Website: 10mgmt.com
Address: 212 N Sangamon St, Chicago, IL
Phone: (312) 618-7474
Specialty: Fashion, lifestyle, curvy
3. Lily’s Talent
Lily Liu is a former model who has been running a successful talent agency since 1983. Unlike many other agencies, Lily’s offers 24 hour availability, an online talent database, and a casting space. Here, the talent-client relationship can reach its full potential.
Website: lilystalent.com
Address: 1017 W Washington Blvd #2C, Chicago, IL
Phone: (312) 601-2345
Specialty: Youth, non-binary, parts
4. BMG Models and Talent
BMG is more than just a full service model and talent agency. They are loyal business partners, responsible community members, and industry leaders. Teamwork and communication are their main focuses as they continue to grow in Chicago, Milwaukee, Atlanta, Los Angeles, Orlando, Miami, New York, Asia, Milan, London, and more. They’re also one of the few agencies that hosts an open call every Monday-Thursday, 4-4:30pm at their Chicago office.
Website: bmgmodels.com
Address: 2255 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL
Phone: (312) 829-9100
Specialty: Lifestyle, kids
5. Shirley Hamilton Talent Inc.
Shirley Hamilton Talents has strong, long-established relationships with casting directors, advertising agencies, and photographers that help their models succeed in print and live event modeling. They sign talent of all ages, from infants to adults. To further assist talent in jump starting their careers, they offer headshot/comp-card photography, event modeling training, acting training, ear prompter training, and more.
Website: shirleyhamiltontalent.com
Address: 333 E Ontario St, Chicago, IL
Phone: (312) 787-4700
Specialty: Print, live events, non-binary
6. Motivated Models
Motivated Models specializes in live modeling for trade shows, product demonstrations, and live events. Their hand-picked talent makes up a vast talent database that clients can explore to find the best fit for their event — so there’s never a shortage of opportunities for live event models at Motivated Models.
Website: motivatedmodels.com
Address: 770 N Halsted St #156, Chicago, IL
Phone: (707) 968-7536
Specialty: Trade show talent and event modeling
7. Option 1 Models
Option 1 is a team-driven, socially conscious fashion agency focused on diversity and inclusion. You’ll find models of all ages, sizes, shapes and genders, as they see classic beauty in all. Option 1 is always accepting new models, so be sure to submit on their website.
Website: option1models.com
Address: 856 N Damen Ave #1, Chicago, IL
Phone: (773) 687-8408
Specialty: Print, plus-size, older adults
8. Ambassador Talent Booking Agency
Ambassador Talent has booked actors and models with household known film and brand names. Founder Susan Sherman and talent agent Ed Cox have made it their mission to ensure the top talent in Chicago are placed with opportunities where they can shine — shoot them an email today to get started.
Website: ambassadortalent.com
Address: 180 N Michigan Ave #533, Chicago, IL
Phone: (312) 641-3491
Specialty: Talent booking
9. The Rock Agency
The rock agency accepts models of all ages, from three months and up. You can submit for representation online, or attend an open call at their Chicago location on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday afternoon. Founded in 1969, The Rock Agency is the oldest and most well respected agency in the midwest market.
Website: therockagency.com
Address: 159 N Sangamon St 2nd floor, Chicago, IL
Phone: (312) 741-3883
Specialty: Runway, curvy
10. Stewart Talent Agency
Stewart Talent represents adult, kid, and teen print models in Chicago and beyond. They have a presence in all four major US markets, with additional locations in New York, Los Angeles, and Atlanta. Being represented by Stewart Talent means getting comprehensive representation with the ability to recognize and adapt to changes in the market.
Website: stewarttalent.com/section/chicago
Address: 400 N Michigan Ave #700, Chicago, IL
Phone: (312) 943-3131
Specialty: Print models
While it might take some more exploration or research to find the modeling agency that’s best for your specific goals, this list is a great place to start.
If you find success with any of these agencies, be sure to tell us about it!
