While we’ll always have a soft spot for iconic models such as David Gandy, Vincent LaCrocq or Tony Ward, fashion always demands fresh faces. Although a focus on social media may have transformed the modeling landscape and changed the definition of model, you can still find well-balanced careers worthy of top model status. Taking into account a healthy mix of campaigns, editorials, and the occasional runway show, here’s eight models to keep an eye on.
Related: Essay | The State of Today’s Male Model
Top Male Models 2017
Julian Schneyder
Age: 21
Instagram: @julianschneyder
If you follow men’s fashion, you don’t have to look far to see Julian Schneyder’s latest work. The Austrian model made his runway debut for Versace, walking for the brand’s fall-winter 2015 show and since, he has a meteoric rise to the top of the modeling industry. Julian has starred in numerous fashion campaigns, which includes liking up with coveted labels like Calvin Klein, Dsquared2, Emporio Armani, and Trussardi. Julian’s face is also easily recognizable due to his many editorials. Working with photographers such as Alasdair McLellan, Julian has graced the pages of titles that include Arena Homme+, GQ Australia, Hercules, and Vogue Netherlands Man.
Kit Butler
Age: 19
Instagram: @kitbutlerr
When it comes to British models, Kit Butler undeniably leads today’s pack. While social media may have transformed various aspects of the modeling industry, Kit represents the classic blue chip model. The British model regularly works with brands that are celebrated for their rich heritage and luxurious appeal. Kit has starred in advertising campaigns for a host of brands. They range from Emporio Armani and Salvatore Ferragamo to Hugo Boss. No stranger to magazine covers, Kit has lent his visage to magazines like Vogue Hommes International and At Large. A hit on the runway, Kit is a force to be reckoned with. The leading model has taken to the catwalk for Balmain, Givenchy, Michael Kos, Tommy Hilfiger, and Dsquared2, just to name a few.
Lucky Blue Smith
Age: 19
Instagram: @luckybsmith
Lucky Blue Smith’s career reads like a modern guide to achieving the status of a top male model. The platinum blond model kicked off his career with editorials for magazines like V and campaign clients such as Calvin Klein. Combined with his impressive social media numbers, which includes millions of followers, the rest is history. A leading model and social savvy, Lucky has taken the fashion world by storm with campaigns for Tommy Hilfiger, Iceberg, Tom Ford, and more. H&M is not only another advertising client of the American model’s, but the brand has partnered with him on more than one occasion to feature his family band, The Atomics.
David Trulik
Age: 22
Instagram: @davidtrulik
David Trulik is a repeat favorite when it comes to wooing fashion brands. The Slovakian model has appeared in multiple campaigns for luxury brands Cesare Paciotti, Louis Vuitton, and Dirk Bikkembergs. Showing no signs of slowing down when it comes to editorial work, David has plenty of shoots under his belt. David’s portfolio includes print work for a several international editions of GQ. He has starred in editorials for British GQ, GQ Germany, GQ Italia, GQ China, GQ Australia, and GQ Portugal. Showcasing a well-balanced career, David also has a strong presence on the catwalk. Taking to the runways of Milan and Paris, David has walked for Dsquared2, Cerruti 1881, Balmain, AMI, and more.
Jegor Venned
Age: 18
Instagram: @jegorvenned
Jegor Venned’s career is seriously a dream. Hailing from Faroe Islands, Jegor was discovered at the age of 15 and thrust into the fashion world. The Russian-Faroese model hit the big leagues when he covered one of the world’s premier men’s fashion magazines–Vogue Hommes International. Linking up with photographer Sølve Sundsbø, Jegor earned a solo cover for the magazine’s fall-winter 2016 issue. In addition to campaigns for Givenchy, Mango, Emporio Armani, Dolce & Gabbana, and Tom Ford, Jegor has already fronted a fragrance campaign. One of the highlights of a model’s career, Jegor appeared in a cologne advertisement for Z Zegna.
Jordan Barrett
Age: 20
Instagram: @iblamejordan
This Aussie is a cross between a fashion socialite and a model. While Jordan Barrett may be tabloid fodder with outlets asking questions like “Is he dating Bella Hadid?” To answer the question, no they’re just friends, but when you have a circle so high profile, it’s no wonder that Jordan’s own resume is impressive. The blond haired model knocks it out of the park when it comes to campaigns. He has front advertisements for Balmain, Ermanno Scervino, Furla, Mavi, Roberto Cavalli, and the list goes on. A true cover model, Jordan includes 10 Men Australia, CR Fashion Book, British GQ Style, and Vogue Turkey among his many credits.
Xavier Buestel
Age: 25
Instagram: @xavierbuestel
It appears that there’s not a label that doesn’t like Xavier Buestel. The French model includes Alexander McQueen, Ermenegildo Zegna, Hermès, Missoni, Paul Smith, and Prada among his runway clients. The French model’s striking features have also served him well as the face of Etro, Gucci, Jimmy Choo, Paul Smith, and Theory. And that’s just naming a few of his campaigns. Similar to his peers, Xavier has appeared in countless magazines as well. Whether, you’re picking up a women’s or men’s fashion magazine, Xavier is no stranger. Xavier’s editorial credits include 10 Men, L’Officiel Hommes, GQ France, and Another Man.
Miles McMillan
Age: 28
Instagram: @milesmcmillan
Miles McMillan is not playing around when it comes to campaigns. The American model has appeared in a number of campaigns and marketing materials for Tommy Hilfiger since 2013. Miles’ public relationship with actor Zachary Quinto hasn’t hurt his career either. His advertising clients also include Paul Smith, Lucky Brand Jeans, Club Monaco, Todd Snyder, ALDO, and Fendi. Showing no shortage of tears, Miles’ portfolio includes magazines that would make any model envious. He has teamed up with photographers like Josh Olins for VMAN, L’Officiel Hommes Germany, Hercules, and Vogue Hommes International, just to name a few magazines.
