The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word PATTERNS
I've seen this crossword clue in The Sunday Telegraph
P
A
T
T
E
R
N
S
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "models" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case models = patterns.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does PATTERNS mean?
PATTERNS noun- Model, example.
- A design, motif or decoration, especially formed from regular repeated elements.
- A naturally-occurring or random arrangement of shapes, colours etc. which have a regular or decorative effect.
- The given spread, range etc. of shot fired from a gun.
- A particular sequence of events, facts etc. which can be understood, used to predict the future, or seen to have a mathematical, geometric, statistical etc. relationship.
- An intelligible arrangement in a given area of language.
- A sequence of notes, percussion etc. in a tracker module, usable once or many times within the song.
- To apply a pattern.
- To make or design (anything) by, from, or after, something that serves as a pattern; to copy; to model; to imitate.
- To follow an example.
- To fit into a pattern.
- To serve as an example for.