Samuel Ellis Scheinman has emerged as a pivotal figure in contemporary fashion casting, celebrated for his discerning eye and commitment to authentic representation. Born and raised in New York, Scheinman began his career interning under Francisco Costa at Calvin Klein before studying fashion design at Cornell University and Central Saint Martins. His collaboration with casting director Piergiorgio Del Moro led to the co-founding of DM Casting, where Scheinman honed his ability to curate diverse and compelling model lineups. His breakthrough came with the casting of Vogue Italia’s October 2015 issue, marking the start of a series of influential projects that would define his career.
Scheinman’s portfolio includes work with prestigious brands such as Louis Vuitton Men’s, Versace, Alexander Wang, and Rihanna’s Fenty Maison. He played a significant role in casting for Virgil Abloh’s debut at Louis Vuitton, contributing to a lineup that emphasized inclusivity and global representation. Notably, Scheinman discovered South Sudanese-Australian model Adut Akech during the casting for Anthony Vaccarello’s first Saint Laurent collection, propelling her into international stardom. His editorial contributions span publications like i-D, where he served as casting director from 2019 to 2024, overseeing covers that challenged traditional beauty norms and celebrated diversity.
Beyond his casting work, Scheinman has been recognized for his influence on fashion’s evolving landscape, earning a place in the BoF 500, which honors individuals shaping the global fashion industry. His approach to casting prioritizes individuality and narrative, seeking talent that embodies the spirit of the times. As he continues to collaborate with leading designers and publications, Scheinman’s impact on the industry underscores the importance of representation and storytelling in fashion.