Lawyers For Sexual Harassment In New York City’s Fashion Industry

Last updated on January 22, 2026

New York City is a global fashion hub, centered in the Garment District and the runways of Manhattan. Beneath the public image of the industry, many workers face sexual harassment, sexual assault and mistreatment. At Eisenberg & Baum, LLP, we recognize the specific obstacles models and other professionals face in this field. Our firm represents a wide range of fashion workers, including fit models, runway models, makeup artists, hair stylists, influencers, interns and showroom assistants. We have the background and experience to help you address these violations of your rights.

What Are Common Examples Of Sexual Harassment In New York’s Fashion Industry?

In the fashion world, sexual harassment can appear in both standard and distinct forms. A few examples include:

• Agents/executives threatening to ruin models’ careers if they reject their sexual advances.
• Photographers requesting models to make provocative photos or gestures for their sexual gratification.
• Agents/executives demanding sexual favors if models wish to advance in their careers.
• Photographers making lewd or sexual comments about models’ bodies or clothing during photoshoots (hostile work environment).
• Photographers engaging in sexual coercion during photoshoots.
• Being subject to unwanted kissing, touching or groping.
• Photographers forcing models to pose with other models in a sexual manner they find uncomfortable.
• Being subject to unwanted touching during photoshoots by agents, executives or photographers.
• Models being subject to unwanted touching during photoshoots.
• Photographers engaging in inappropriate physical conduct when helping models pose for photoshoots.
• Agents/executives offering special treatment/career advancement in exchange for sexual favors (quid pro quo).

It can be difficult for models or others in the fashion industry to prevent or report workplace harassment or sexual misconduct, as agencies and other stakeholders can have tight control over their contracts and schedules. If you are experiencing sexual harassment and are working in the fashion industry, know that you are not alone and that we are here to help. Learn more about what we can do for you by calling us at 212-847-4999.

What Is The New York State Fashion Workers Act?

The New York State Fashion Workers Act (NYS Labor Law, Article 35-A) changed labor protections for the industry. This legislation closed legal loopholes that previously left many fashion creatives without basic labor rights. Under this act, the law requires management agencies to act in the best interests of the talent they represent.

Agencies must conduct themselves with honesty and integrity. The law requires them to provide transparency regarding commissions, which the state caps at 20%. Agencies must also make payments within 45 days of a job’s completion. This legislation establishes legal safeguards against exploitation and harassment to help maintain professional working environments.

To determine if these rules apply to your specific situation, you should examine the statutory language used in the Act.

Important Definitions In The New York State Fashion Workers Act

To understand how these protections apply to your career, you should review the legal definitions established under Article 35-A:

• Model: An individual, whether an independent contractor or employee, who performs modeling services for a client or management company.
• Client: Any person or entity (such as a brand, designer or retailer) that hires or engages a model through a management company.
• Modeling services: Includes appearing in photographic sessions, live runways, filmed or taped creative presentations, or social media content intended to promote or sell products. This also includes the use of a digital replica of the model.
• Model management company: Any entity that provides management, counseling, or vocational guidance to models for a fee or seeks to obtain modeling engagements for them.
• Model management group: Refers to two or more model management companies that a single person, business or parent organization owns.
• Digital replica: Digital recreations or AI-altered representations of how a model looks or sounds.
• Deal memo: A plain-language written summary of the key components of a job, which the agency must provide to the model before work begins.
• Exclusive representation: An agreement or clause that restricts a model or creative from performing work for another party not subject to the contract.

Clear definitions ensure that both workers and agencies understand their respective obligations under New York law.

Can Independent Contractors In The Fashion Industry Still File Sexual Harassment Claims In New York?

Yes, independent contractors, including models, have the right to file sexual harassment claims in New York. The New York State Human Rights Law and the New York City Human Rights Law provide protections for all workers, regardless of their employment classification. Independent contractors, employees and others in the fashion industry are entitled to legal protection from sexual misconduct. They can hire legal counsel to pursue a civil lawsuit.

Popular Modeling Agencies In New York City

While the Fashion Workers Act regulates all entities operating within the state, many workers interact with the major firms headquartered in the city. These include:

• IMG Models
• Elite Model Management
• Ford Models
• Wilhelmina Models
• Women Management
• Next Management
• The Society Management

Regardless of which agency represents you, our attorneys can help you evaluate whether your management is following these new legal standards.

We Are Here To Help You Understand Your Rights

When you are trying to make your way in New York City’s fashion industry, it can be hard to face harassment, especially from the people who can make or break your career. However, no matter what part of the industry you work in, we are here to tell you that you do not have to tolerate this kind of behavior from others.

If you have questions about your specific situation, we are here to answer them. Schedule a free consultation with us today by calling 212-847-4999 or visiting our contact form page.