Luxury groups LVMH and Kering have brought back and updated their charter on working conditions, respect, and protection for models. Both companies now require models to be at least 18 years old for photo shoots or runway shows. Kering had already introduced this rule in 2019, while LVMH had previously set a minimum age of 16 in 2017.
The pledge states: “The signatories reaffirm their unreserved commitment to combating any form of harassment, abuse or violence, whether physical, psychological, verbal or emotional. This is why, after consulting stakeholders, the rules set out in this charter were developed. These go beyond legal obligations, with the aim of ensuring good working conditions for models, in keeping with the respect they are due.”
The signatories made the pledge as part of their social and ethical responsibility, aiming to ensure healthy and safe working environments that protect models’ dignity. LVMH and Kering promised to work only with partners, subcontractors, and service providers worldwide who share — and can uphold — the values in the new charter.
In 2017, LVMH and Kering made a similar pledge, but this updated version addresses growing concerns about issues like women’s safety. It clearly prohibits all forms of gender-based and sexual violence, including verbal or physical harassment and inappropriate jokes or gestures.
Another key addition is a non-discrimination policy, which promises to reflect an inclusive society and avoid stereotyping, “while taking into account the artistic freedom necessary for brands to express their identity and the messages they wish to convey through their collections.”
In a phone call today, a Kering representative explained that the non-discrimination policy was previously implied but is now stated explicitly. Kering also reaffirmed its commitment to women, highlighting the Kering Foundation — established in 2008 — which works to combat gender-based violence against women and children.
In 2025, LVMH joined Safe Spaces — a program focused on domestic and sexual violence — to support its employees, adding to a broader network of violence prevention and support programs.
The charter also commits to fair pay for models’ work “in line with the practices and rate scales in use in the profession, where these exist in the location where the service takes place.” It provides clear guidance on minimum model sizes, requiring at least EU 34 (US 2) for women and EU 44 (US 34) for men. On shoots and at shows, models must have access to healthy food and drinks that meet their dietary needs, and brands must give models information about healthy eating.
Kering and LVMH also stated that agencies must be upfront with brands about legal working hours to ensure adequate rest breaks. Both companies agreed that agencies must ensure their work includes adequate training to support career transitions.
Nudity guidelines require a reserved changing area and robes. Importantly, they state that nude or partially nude models should never be left alone with a production team member or photographer. Kering confirmed this does not require a dedicated chaperone on set or at shows, since all models will be over 18.
Finally, the companies committed to clear ways for models to file complaints and report inappropriate behavior.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs LVMH and Kerings Updated Commitment to Models
1 What is this commitment about
LVMH and Kering jointly released a charter with new rules to protect the health and working conditions of models they hire
2 When was it announced
The updated charter was announced in September 2025 building on an earlier version first introduced in 2017
3 Why did they update it
The original rules needed strengthening The new version adds clearer age limits health checks and workinghour protections
4 Which brands does this cover
It applies to all brands under both groups including Louis Vuitton Dior Gucci Saint Laurent Balenciaga and many others
5 What are the main new rules
No models under 16 Models aged 1618 need extra protections Regular health checkups are required along with limits on working hours and guaranteed rest periods
6 Why is the minimum age set at 16
It aims to protect minors from the pressures of the fashion industry while still allowing some older teenagers to work under strict conditions
7 What protections exist for models aged 1618
They cant work late nights must have a parent or guardian present and have limits on how many hours they can work
8 Do models need to provide medical certificates
Yes Models must show a recent medical certificate confirming they are fit to work
9 What about model sizes
The charter requires brands to hire models of diverse body types and prohibits requiring extreme thinness Sizes below a certain threshold are not allowed
10 Are there rules about working hours
Yes Working days are capped breaks are mandatory and models must get adequate rest between shoots or shows
11 What happens if a brand breaks the rules
Brands can face internal penalties and the groups say they will monitor compliance However enforcement details remain limited
12 Does this apply to agencies too
Yes Modeling agencies working with LVMH and Kering brands must follow the same standards
13 Is this legally binding
No Its a voluntary commitment not a law It applies only to brands within the two groups
14 What are the benefits for models
Better health protection fairer working conditions fewer cases of exploitation