Nothing like an exclusive Gucci contract to start your modeling career. That’s what got Liya Kebede on the runway for the first time in 2000. From there, it was on to Louis Vuitton, Saint Laurent, and of course, Victoria’s Secret. She’s now focused on her activism.
A lot of her time goes to maternal health and preserving the culture of Ethiopia – her home country. The Liya Kebede Foundation, which she founded in 2005, aims to help both mothers and children in Ethiopia with education and medical programs. In addition, she contributes articles about maternal health to many of the magazines she once appeared on.
Inès de La Fressange
When it comes to Inès de La Fressange, modeling and fashion run in her DNA, the French beauty's mother was a model in Argentina! The woman was born to model haute couture and became a favorite of Karl Lagerfeld during the early 80s, who singlehandedly revived the apparently then "dead brand." We'll give some credit to Inès, who understandably was some sort of muse.
While certainly less active today, the style icon walked the runway for Gaultier during an event at age 51, and for the Chanel spring-summer 2011 show. Inès was married to French nobleman Luigi d'Urso until his death in 2006. Together they raised two daughters.
Alek Wek
When Alek Wek came onto the scene, no one had seen anyone quite like her. Healing from South Sudan, Wek found refuge in London at 14 years old. With her buzzcut and darker skin tone, she sparked a media frenzy. Despite the discrimination, the woman won MTV's model of the year in 1997- she was just 19 years old.
Since her modeling days, Wek has written a book about her life entitled "Alek: From Sudanese Refugee to International Supermodel," appeared as a judge in the 16th season of "America's Next Top Model," and has been involved with the UN Refugee Agency working with refugees from South Sudan.
Kimora Lee Simmons
Kimora Lee Simmons rose to stardom at just 13 years old, modeling throughout the 90s for top fashion houses like Valentino, Fendi, and Karl Lagerfeld (who he himself dubbed Kimora as the "Face of the 21st Century.") In 1998 the former model married music mogul and entrepreneur Russel Simmons, and together they ventured into creating a fashion line.
Her brand, "Baby Phat," became one of the top brands in the 2000s. And turned her attention toward fashion design. In August 2020, she announced the Baby Phat Beauty line curated by her daughters Ming Lee and Aoki Lee. Yes, the apple did not fall far.
Angela Lindvall
Not many models can say that they took a hiatus from modeling in their teens, only to return to it before 18 and find stardom once again. That's what happened with Angela Lindvall. During the 2000s, Lidnvall reigned supreme, appearing in every top magazine around as well as working with Chanel, Gucci, Valentino, Prada, Calvin Klein, Miu Miu, Dior, Louis Vuitton, and more. Yikes!
And it's not just super modeling that Lindvall has excelled in over the years. Today, she is a staunch environmentalist and is the founder and president of the Collage Foundation, an organization "promoting sustainability and environmentally conscious choices among young people."
Jerry Hall
The great Jerry Hall truly manifested her dream life after she booked herself a one-way ticket to France. After chilling on a beach in St. Tropez, she was discovered. Weeks later, she was appearing on the cover of fashion mags being photographed by the likes of Helmut Newton. In addition to her modeling career, Hall was famous for her highly publicized relationships with rockstar Bryan Ferry and eventual husband (and ultimate ex-husband), Mick Jagger.
In 2010 Hall tried her hand at writing and performing country and western music and performed at Glastonbury! Love life-wise, The former model found love with Rupert Murdoch in 2015 and tied the knot in 2016.
Marisa Berenson
We've discussed many models from the 70s here, but according to Yves Saint Laurent, Marisa Berenson was the girl. Berenson began modeling at 16 years old, working with YSL, Halston, Azzedine Alaïa, and more. In the late 70s and 80s, Berenson also starred in many films, including "Killer Fish," "The Secret Diary of Sigmund Freud," and "White Hunter Black Heart. "
Her enduring passion for the arts was evident in her later stage performance, affirming her status as a multi-talented and timeless beauty. Her most recent appearance was in 2016, where she appeared in a production of "Romeo and Juliet" at the Garrick Theatre in London as Lady Capulet.
Patti Hansen
Models get discovered all over the world. Most of the time, they are just out there living their lives without a clue about what could possibly await them out there. Hence Patti Hansen was discovered working at her father's hot dog stand in Staten Island in 1972.
She was soon on the fashion circuit, mixing it up with the hottest stars on the dance floor of Studio 54. It was here where she met Keith Richards, which marked the beginning of a legendary love story, and their enduring marriage solidified her status as a rock 'n' roll icon in her own right.
Cheryl Tiegs
Talk about the perfect girl next door; Cheryl Tiegs was just that! Those sun-kissed cheeks and blue eyes made her a go-to cover girl for many magazines and fashion campaigns. Tiegs was married four times and is happily divorced today. In 2010, she appeared on "Living with Ed" in order to promote a green lifestyle.
It earned herself the title of "Green Star of the Week" by Access Hollywood. Today she lives in Bel-Air in a home reported to be worth 15 million dollars. Cheryl Tiegs' timeless beauty and wholesome charm made her an iconic figure in the modeling world. Her dedication to promoting a green lifestyle showcases her commitment to environmental causes.
Rene Russo
Fellow stunner Brook Shields once described Rene Russo as "the most beautiful thing that ever walked the face of the earth." The model-turned-actress was actually discovered at a Rolling Stones concert, and soon the whole world fell in love with her.
Russo ended her modeling career at 30 and successfully moved into film. She even showed up in Marvel Cinematic Universe as the mother of Thor! She recently starred in the Netflix original "Velvet Buzzsaw" alongside Jake Gyllenhall (a film written by her husband Dan Gilroy!) She lives with her screenwriter hubby in California; together they share a daughter who is also a model!
Kelly Emberg
Kelly Emberg was discovered by a local photographer when she was in high school in her hometown of Houston, Texas. That little discovery led her all the way to the Big Apple, where she landed a contract with Elite Model Management. Emberg went on to make many appearances as a cover girl, mostly in Sports Illustrated.
The model shares a child named Ruby with musician Rod Stewart and two more with each of her former husbands, Brad Jenkel and Gavin Brodin. After her modeling career, she took up interior design and landscaping. Today she runs a gardening company where she advises people on how to grow veggie gardens.
Grace Jones
Grace Jones is not a mere model, not that we are slamming that at all, but the woman did become an absolute icon that inspired a look for generations to come. In 1966 she signed with Wilhelmina Models before she moved out to Paris in 1970, where she took off hugely with her bold and camp appearance.
Jones appeared on international runways, modeling for brands such as Yves Saint Laurent and Kenzo Takada, as well as appearing on countless covers. Later on, she took up acting and singing rather successfully, landing a spot at the Billboard top in December 2016.
Margaux Hemingway
Ernest Hemingway's granddaughter, the gorgeous and statuesque Margaux, landed a record-breaking contract with the luxury brand Fabergé. Her contract was worth one million dollars. The 1970s fashion icon was dubbed as one of the "New Beauties" in Time Magazine. During the peak of her career, Hemingway appeared on multiple magazine covers before moving on to a brief film career.
In 1996 tragedy struck when she was discovered lifeless in her home at the age of 42. Margaux Hemingway's striking beauty and captivating presence captivated the fashion world, securing her a prominent place among the "New Beauties" of her time. Despite her tragic passing, her legacy as a fashion icon and film actress remains indelible.
Gia Carangi
In 1978 Gia Carangi moved to New York at just 17 years old to pursue a modeling career, and boy, did she find one. Considered to be one of the first supermodels in the world, Gia was a force. She graced covers of Vogue (both US and international editions) and multiple issues of Cosmopolitan until 1981.
Gia's modeling career came to an end a few years after the passing of her agent and mentor, Wilhelmina Cooper. The supermodel's life fell into disarray due to substance abuse and financial problems. Tragically her life ended at 26. In a 1998 film, Angelina portrayed the iconic model.
Karen Bjornson
Karen Bjornson rose to fame through her collaboration with legendary 70s designer Roy Halston, known mononymously as "Halston" becoming one of his very famous "Halsonettes" and his greatest muse. Bjornson worked runways for Ralph Lauren, Donna Karan, Calvin Klein, and more.
Bjornson retired from the modeling game in 1989 to raise her two daughters, but at 50 years old, she returned to the runway! It showcased her enduring beauty and indomitable spirit. Her comeback marked a significant moment in the fashion industry, challenging ageist norms and inspiring models of all generations. Bjornson's legacy as a muse and trailblazer continues to resonate in the world of fashion.
Cristina Ferrare
Cristina Ferrare was just 14 years old when her family relocated to Los Angeles from Ohio, and she found fame pretty quickly after that. At 16 years old, Ferrearre started modeling for Max Actor, becoming the "Max Factor Girl" for over a decade. In 1973 she married John DeLorean, the infamous VP of general motors and creator of the DeLorean car from "Back to the Future."
Ferrare ventured into TV in recent years, hosting a number of shows such as the Home and Family Show with Mark Steines. The former model and TV personality have also been portrayed in the 2018 film Driven and by Morena Baccarin in the 2019 documentary Framing John DeLorean.
Dayle Haddon
Dayle Haddon led a legendary career that spanned over three decades. The Quebec native has represented a plethora of beauty brands, including Estee Lauder, Revlon, and L’Oréal. The former pageant queen also appeared twice on the list of "Ten Most Beautiful Women" in Harpers Bazaar.
Haddon's ongoing career and multi-year contracts with top Beauty brands have, according to the New York Times, "shattered age taboos." But with a face like that, it's truly no surprise. Dayle Haddon's timeless beauty and business acumen have made her a trailblazer in the beauty industry. Beyond modeling, she ventured into entrepreneurship, launching her own line of beauty products and authoring books on holistic wellness.
Rosie Vela
Before Rosie Vela was gracing magazine covers throughout the 70s, she got her start in modeling in Arkansas while studying art and music. There she met her musician husband to be Jimmy Roberts. Sadly shortly after their marriage, he passed away. Vela moved to New York, where her modeling career skyrocketed, appearing in Newsweek and Vogue and even acting in several films.
In the 80s, Vela transitioned into a music career, becoming a backup singer. As a trained artist, she also found her way back into creating art which she posts on her Instagram account. At one point, she was in a relationship with the frontman of ELO - Jeff Lynne.
Jean Shrimpton
When you are discovered by the world renowned fashion photographer David Bailey (and fall in love with him), your career path is pretty much a guaranteed success story from the get-go. Jean Shrimpton was no exception, which explains how she became one of the world's first supermodels.
Jean Shrimpton's captivating allure and romantic entanglements added to her enigmatic charm. After her two highly publicized relationships, first with Bailey and then with actor Terrence Stamp, Shrimpton settled down with photographer Michael Cox in 1979 and raised a child together. These days the couple own and run the Abbey Hotel in Penzance.
Veruschka
Veruschka von Lehndorff's modeling journey is marked by remarkable milestones. After being discovered in Italy, she embarked on a global adventure, collaborating with prestigious agencies like Ford Agency in New York City. However, it was her role in the iconic 1966 film "Blow-Up" that thrust her into the spotlight, cementing her status as a fashion icon.
Decades later, Veruschka defied age norms and returned to the runway, captivating audiences once again. At 71 years old, she graced Giles Deacon's line during London Fashion Week in October 2012. Continuing to inspire, she made a memorable appearance in Acne Studios' Resort 2018 lookbook, proving that her timeless allure transcends generations.
Donyale Luna
Donyale Luna was discovered in 1963 outside the Fisher Building in Detroit by British photographer David McCabe. She was immediately whisked off to New York City, where she found massive success, eventually venturing also into movies, mostly in Europe. Luna tragically passed away due to struggles with illegal substances in 1979. She was 33.
The model and actress also served as a muse for legendary artist Salvador Dali. As the first African American cover girl, she left a lasting legacy. Donyale Luna's ethereal beauty and enigmatic presence captivated the fashion world, inspiring future generations of diverse models. Her collaboration with Salvador Dali immortalized her as a symbol of artistic expression and cultural significance.
Peggy Moffitt
With her unusual face and asymmetrical haircut, Peggy Moffit became one of the hottest models in the British fashion circuit. Her makeup was heavily inspired by the Japanese Kabuki style, and her extreme fashions made her stand out from the crowd, not to mention her famous monokini bathing suit that made international headlines.
Moffit collaborated closely with designer Rudi Gernreich and later acquired the legal rights to all his designs. With that, she arranged for his work to be exhibited in a show called The Total Look: The Creative Collaboration Between Rudi Gernreich, Peggy Moffitt, and William Claxton at the Los Angeles Museum of Contemporary Art's Pacific Design Center.
Pattie Boyd
We would not have the famous Twiggy if it were not for Pattie Boyd, who is known to be the model who actually inspired the funky 60s look. The model was a staple of British Vogue covers but probably gained more fame from being in the middle of the most famous love triangle in rock history between George Harrison and Eric Clapton.
Boyd took to photography in her years after modeling, capturing some striking images of some of the 60s "rock gods." Her photographs have been exhibited, and her most recently in 2008 in Sydney, Australia. What a legend she has been.
Penelope Tree
Penelope Tree was one of the many models that found their way into the electrifying rock n roll circuit of the 1960s. But before that, she was a subject of Diane Arbus's captivating photographic projects at just 13 years of age.
But it was at Truman Capote's famous Black and White Ball in 1966 that people started to take notice of and she ultimately found fame as a popular supermodel. Tree married South African musician Ricky Fataar and shares two kids with him. After her split from Fataar, she got involved with renowned psycho-analyst Stuart MacFarlane, with whom she shares one child.
Linda Keith
Nothing goes better together than models and rockstars. Linda Keith understandably become the apple of many a rocker's eye, namely Keith Richards and Jimi Hendrix, and has even been credited with successfully guiding Hendrix toward success. She was a true rock and roll supermodel.
Keith is also known to be the subject of the Rolling Stones song "Ruby Tuesday." Aside from involvement in the 60s rock scene, she is, of course, also known for striking Vogue covers from the era. Keith disappeared after the 60s rock craze and reportedly lives with her family in New Orleans - a far cry from her former life.
Linda Morand
Imagine having a whole career just because you look like someone else. That's exactly what happened to Linda Morand, who was discovered at art school for sharing a striking resemblance to fellow 60s icon Jackie O. Thanks to original modeling agent Eileen Ford aka, "The Grand Dame of the Modelling industry," Linda Morad found herself modeling for French haute couture shows - a first for American fashion.
Her modeling career died down shortly after, but she's become a mainstay guest of the hottest fashion events. Linda Morand's unique connection to Jackie O propelled her into the spotlight, and her runway success opened doors for future American models in the Parisian fashion scene.
Cybill Shepherd
You might know her a little better as an actress in films like "Taxi," and "Moonlighting" but Cybill Shepard actually got her shot in the limelight when she was voted "Miss Teenage Memphis" in 1966 and won the 1968 "Model of the Year" award.
The awards led her to a successful modeling career, becoming a fashion icon during the early 70s. In fact, her appearance on the cover of Glamor in 1970 is what caught director Peter Bogdanovich's eye, ultimately earning her a role in "The Last Picture Show." These days you can catch Cybill on "The L-Word" playing alongside Jane Lynch!
Naomi Sims
In the 60s, a time when intolerance was rife in America, Naomi Sims, an African American model, graced the 1967 edition of the New York Times fashion supplement. All of this was done completely without the help of agents, as she went directly to photographers. She was a true trailblazer.
When the now-famous modeling agency Wilhemina Models was in its infancy, Sims was one of the first to sign on. She also made history as the first black model to be on the cover of both Ladies Home and Journal Life. Tragically Sims passed away in 2009 after battling a long-term illness.
Marie Helvin
Marie Helvin was 15 years old and on a trip to Japan with her mother when her life completely changed. The teen was signed on to Kanebo, a leading Japanese cosmetics line, subsequently becoming the face of the line. Her success in Japan led her to London, ultimately causing her to relocate and work for Yves Saint Laurent.
Brands like Versace and Valentino followed. During her work at Vogue, she met the legendary photographer David Bailey; they fell in love and wed in 1975 but divorced ten years later. Helvin retired during the 80s but has still maintained her spot in the public eye with appearances in British Vogue aweel as a judge on Britain's Next Top Model.
Jean Patchett
If you're a lover of fashion, you might already be familiar with Jean Patchett's Vogue iconic 1950 cover. The black and white image of her in the fishnet mask and stylish hat made Vogue history and cemented her spot as one of the most unforgettable models of fashion.
Patchett enjoyed a long and illustrious career that began in the 1940s. Her icy and "remote" appearance was a breakthrough in the fashion world, with models appearing more warm and friendly. Jean Patchett's distinctive features and sophisticated aura set her apart, captivating the fashion industry and leading to collaborations with renowned photographers such as Irving Penn and Richard Avedon.
Nadja Auermann
This gorgeous German native was sipping her coffee at a cafe in Berlin when she was discovered. Her career saw a lot of success, working with the top photographers in the biz, namely Helmut Newton and Peter Lindbergh. If you'd like a glimpse, just take a look at one of the over 100 magazine covers she appeared on.
In September 2020, the former model strutted her stuff in the Balenciaga Spring 2020 show, proving to the world that she hasn't lost it. Claudia Schiffer's timeless beauty and versatility made her a muse for renowned designers like Karl Lagerfeld and Valentino.
Kate Moss
With over three hundred appearances on magazine covers, Kate Moss is one of the most legendary supermodels to ever put on an outfit. She was named one of “Time” magazine's most influential people. But Kate's life hasn't been the best, even with all of the success.
In the first few years of the new millennium, Moss had problems with substance abuse; she also became entangled in a scandal in 2005. Afterward, she lost a lot of her old contracts. She has managed to get clean thanks to Buddhist spiritualism. In 2014 the model came out with a fashion line as part of her collaboration with Topshop.
China Machado
As the first non-Caucasian person to appear on the cover of any major American fashion magazine, China Machado made 1959 her year. The magazine was “Harper's Bazaar,” and it's even more notable since it was – respective to other models, at least – later in her life. After moving to Paris to find work, she became the highest-paid model at the time, earning a thousand dollars per day.
After Machado's big cover breakout, she became the senior fashion editor at the same magazine that had her on the front cover. She worked her way up to fashion director. This icon and legendary beauty died on December eighteenth, 2016, at the age of eighty-six.
Cindy Crawford
No one can deny she's beautiful, but Cindy Crawford did a lot for the well-being of models in the fashion industry. When Crawford started to get widespread success, she appeared on talk shows and did interviews where she voiced her opinions about the modeling industry and what it was like to grow up in it.
Crawford quit being a full-time model in 2000 but still finds the time to show up every once in a while. She's now deep into promoting environmental safety and environmental awareness. Kaia Gerber also followed in her mother's footsteps and became a world-famous, successful model.
Naomi Campbell
When it comes to Naomi Campbell, there's good, bad, and ugly. She was the first black woman to take the cover of “French Vogue,” as well as “Time” magazine. However, her temper has gotten into trouble multiple times. Campbell pleaded guilty to mistreating her maids, which didn't make her look good.
After moving past those issues, Naomi started her own reality series, “The Face,” where she was both a coach and producer. She has also had her fair share of appearances in fictional shows too. She had a cameo on the show “Empire,” where she played an older lover of the character Hakeem.
Lauren Hutton
When this classic beauty got her start appearing in “Vogue,” she was encouraged to hide the gap between her two front teeth. While she did listen for some time, she eventually let this “imperfection” become visible, and it became one of Lauren Hutton's most beloved features.
It didn't hold her career back at all, and she has graced the cover of "Vogue" a remarkable twenty-six times. Her gap is still there now that Hutton is in her seventies. Recently she has been working on a memoir she's calling “Smile,” so one day soon, we may be able to hear about this legendary model's life in her own words.
Beverly Johnson
There is nothing like making history. Beverly Johnson was the very first African-American model to appear on the cover of American “Vogue” in 1974, paving the way for all the other models of color. Before she arrived, black models were rare, but after her, it was a whole new world.
Now in her sixties, Johnson is still a looker. She has written a book, “Beverly Johnson's Guide to a Life of Health and Beauty,” and she was a celebrity judge on “The Face,” where contestants compete for a modeling contract. Beverly Johnson also has a successful wig and hair collection.
Brooke Shields
Brooke Shields seems to have been through it all in the world of supermodeling and beyond. She got her first modeling gig when she was only eleven months old, appearing in an ad for Ivory Soap. From her controversial advertisements with Calvin Klein to multiple covers during the eighties, Shields was at the forefront of the industry.
Now in her fifties, Brooke would rather act than model. Her acting credits include appearing in “Friends,” “Suddenly Susan,” “Jane the Virgin,” and more. She is an outspoken advocate for women suffering from postpartum blues and was the executive producer for “When the Bough Breaks,” a documentary about this unspoken problem.
Adriana Lima
There have been few Victoria's Secret models more profitable for the company than Adriana Lima. Her first time on the runway was when she was only seventeen, and she went on to become the longest-running Angel of all time. Lima has been in twenty televised shows, and her skills on the runway helped her get gigs with Fendi, Vera Wang, Prada, and Alexander McQueen.
She hung up her lingerie in 2018 and hasn't been on a runway since. After so many years as the world's second-highest-paid model, Adriana deserves some rest and relaxation. There is no denying that Lima is one of the most well-recognized supermodels on this list.
Claudia Schiffer
Claudia Schiffer was the very first model to appear on the cover of “Rolling Stone.” Once the highest-paid model in the world, she was bringing in something like fifty thousand dollars a day, and she was prolific, too: Claudia has appeared on magazine covers more than five hundred times.
Trying her hand at acting, she appeared in “Love Actually” and “Zoolander.” Claudia is a Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF and was also a part of the Arts and Entertainment Support Committee. In addition to her humanitarian efforts, Claudia Schiffer launched her own fashion line and published an autobiography chronicling her illustrious career.
Beverly Peele
Beverly Peele began working as a model at the surprising age of just twelve. Her first magazine cover, “Mademoiselle,” came in 1989. From there, she moved on to “Vogue,” “ELLE,” and “Cosmopolitan,” and walked for Prada, Comme des Garcon, and John Galliano.
Despite her atmospheric success, Beverly took a step back in 1993 to raise her daughter Cairo. Since then, she has had three more children, her sons Trey and DJ and daughter Storm. In 2017, Beverly and Storm appeared on the Lifetime docu-series “Growing Up Supermodel,” a show that follows the careers of the children of famous models such as Peele.
Agyness Deyn
Among all the Victoria's Secret Angels, Agyness Deyn stood out. Beautiful, yes; enchanting, yes, but she had something a little more. Her distinct tomboy look and short hair helped her stand out in a crowded marketplace, and the punk aesthetic that she was able to cultivate was a joy to watch on the runways.
Deyn worked for Alexander Wang, Chanel, Bottega Veneta, and lots more. She was the official face of Burberry, Doc Martens, and other products you may be familiar with. Retiring from modeling in 2012, she moved on to acting. The movies that Agyness has appeared in include “Clash of the Titans,” “The Titan,” and “Her Smell.”
Frankie Rayder
Frankie Rayder is best known for her Victoria's Secret campaigns. However, she's added many more strings to her bow over the years. She has adorned magazines, window showcased, and the long catwalk for more than three decades. She also won the prestigious "model of the year" award, which was sponsored by Vogue.
What we love most about Rayder is that not only does she slip smoothly into brands that are top of the range and high-end fashion names, but she also represents eye leveled stores such as GAP and Godiva Chocolates ( which used to be prestige but can be found today in every high street store).
Tatjana Patitz
Tatjana Patitz was a talented model from Germany who blew up in the nineties, working with brands like Chanel, Jean Paul Gaultier, Cartier, Versace, and Calvin Klein. Over the years, she worked beside supermodels Linda Evangelista, Naomi Campbell, and others in George Michael's “Freedom '90" music video.
While she could have any designer clothes imaginable, she was a fan of simple jeans and riding boots. For the most part, Patitz walked away from the spotlight, choosing to live with her son Johan and their many animals on a Santa Barbara ranch in California. She sadly passed away in early 2023 after battling cancer.
Gemma Ward
When she was only twenty years old, Gemma Ward made twenty-five thousand dollars per runway show. By then, she had also fronted a Calvin Klein campaign and was a muse for designer Miuccia Prada. Ward was on her way to becoming the next Kate Moss.
But the unfortunate passing of her boyfriend, Heath Ledger, made her take some time off. After a break that ran for five years, she signed with IMG Models and returned to the runways. Her resume now also includes a bit of acting in movies such as “The Great Gatsby” and “Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.”
Tyra Banks
Tyra Banks was the first black woman to be on the cover of “Sports Illustrated,” kick-started “America's Next Top Model,” and even wrote a young adult novel. Tyra was also one of Victoria's Secret's most popular models – more sold bras are attributed to her than to any other model.
Banks is now a mother and is constantly working for a number of charity causes. One of her biggest missions is to help young girls with self-esteem issues, and she has also established a scholarship program that helps young black girls to attend the high school that she herself attended.
Shalom Harlow
Tim Blanks, a fashion journalist, said that Shalom Harlow has a body made for couture, and he was right. And the place she was discovered is pretty unexpected, truth be told. After a scout spotted her at a "The Cure" concert at the age of seventeen, she quickly became a prominent model.
Harlow posed for luxury brands like Chanel and Dior. The Cure might not play as many shows as they did back then, but Shalom is still rocking the catwalks and social media. She walked in Versace's Spring 2019 show and became one of the central figures of the fashion house's spring campaign.
Amber Valletta
When Amber Valletta was eighteen, she got her first of sixteen “Vogue” covers. It was just the start for this Arizona beauty, who appeared in campaigns for Armani, Prada, and Elizabeth Arden. She's become an actress, appearing in films including “What Lies Beneath,” “Hitch,” and “The Family Man.”
Valletta has gone on record talking about her substance abuse issues with the hopes of helping others who also had the same kind of struggles. She has outright stated that the help of others is crucial in these types of situations and that she is glad she was not left to her own devices.
Niki Taylor
With a girl-next-door look and incredible charisma, Niki Taylor was destined to be on the covers of magazines. Her first appearance was in “Seventeen” magazine at the age of fourteen. She then moved on to “CoverGirl,” “Nokia,” and the “Sports Illustrated Swimsuit” issue. Taylor became the youngest model to appear in “Vogue” at the tender age of fifteen.
Niki's little sister, fellow model Krissy, passed away in 1996. Just a few years later, Niki was involved in an unfortunate accident and took some time out of the spotlight in order to recover. She is doing great now, having been the face of a jewelry campaign, as well as the wife of former NASCAR driver Burney Lamar.
Yasmeen Ghauri
Models can be discovered everywhere. Even as in the case of Yasmeen Ghauri while working at McDonald's. She appeared on the cover of “Vogue” in January 1991 and then quickly rose through the ranks of models to become the face of groups like Chanel.
Yasmeen made history in 1992, becoming the first woman of South Asian descent to be Victoria's Secret angel. After walking the runway for more than five years, Ghauri stepped away from modeling. Her career was still on the rise, but she wanted to focus on having a family with her husband, lawyer Ralph Bernstein. The two have a daughter together.
Liya Kebede
Nothing like an exclusive Gucci contract to start your modeling career. That's what got Liya Kebede on the runway for the first time in 2000. From there, it was on to Louis Vuitton, Saint Laurent, and of course, Victoria's Secret. She's now focused on her activism.
A lot of her time goes to maternal health and preserving the culture of Ethiopia – her home country. The Liya Kebede Foundation, which she founded in 2005, aims to help both mothers and children in Ethiopia with education and medical programs. In addition, she contributes articles about maternal health to many of the magazines she once appeared on.
Helena Christensen
After winning Miss Universe for Denmark in 1986, it was a short jump for Helena Christensen to start modeling. She appeared on runways and magazine covers all over the world, and she still does so even to this day, though her heyday is long gone.
Christensen became the creative director of “Nylon” magazine and has started several of her own clothing lines. Today, she's in control of the camera, and her photography has appeared in “Nylon,” “ELLE,” and “Marie Claire,” among others. Helena's charity work includes a lot of work raising awareness as well as money to help those who suffer from diseases.
Laetitia Casta
Becoming a Guess girl at the age of 15 after being discovered on the beach in her native France, Laetitia Casta flaunted her beauty up and down runways, in Victoria's Secret catalogs, and in the “Sports Illustrated Swimsuit” issue. In 1998 Casta became model of the year after appearing on the cover of “Rolling Stone” in nothing but her birthday suit.
She still does a little modeling nowadays but has switched her focus to French-language films. She's also a mom to a daughter she had with director Stephane Sednaoui. She also has a pair of children with actor Stefano Accorsi. She's now married to actor Louis Garrel, who directed her in the 2019 movie “A Faithful Man.”
Iman Mohamed Abdulmajid
A lot of models have a very specific, western look, but not Iman Mohamed Abdulmajid. Discovered in her native Somalia at the age of eighteen, she quickly became one of the most famous models around. But, Iman didn't spend too much time in the industry; she quit in 1987, saying that she found no grace in this line of work.
Abdulmajid moved to Los Angeles, met David Bowie, and married him. With the help of the BBC, she created a documentary about her home country called “Somalia Diary.” Her line of cosmetics came out in 1994, giving more options to women of color who, like her, had trouble finding a foundation that matched their skin tone.
Rebecca Romijn
Rebecca Romijn was featured in countless magazines, such as “ELLE,” “Marie Claire,” “Cosmopolitan,” and “Sports Illustrated.” Her campaigns include La Perla, Christian Dior, J. Crew, Tommy Hilfiger, and plenty of others. If you have seen a modeling campaign while shopping, chances are Romijn was part of it.
Nowadays, her acting work has overtaken her modeling career. She played Mystique (also known as Raven) in the original X-Men trilogy and has also had roles in movies like “Rollerball” and “The Punisher.” Television has also been part of Rebecca's life, with some awesome roles on shows such as “Ugly Betty” and “Star Trek: Discovery.”
Carla Bruni
For most of the nineties, Carla Bruni was one of the most famous models in the world. Hailing from Italy, this brunette darling appeared with a huge number of the biggest fashion houses. She shocked the fashion world in 1997 when she left the runway in order to dedicate herself to music.
For almost the entire decade in the 2000s, Carla worked on her music and dabbled a little bit in acting. In 2018 she moved back to modeling with Versace in their spring/summer fashion show, and then she married Nicolas Sarkozy, the president of France. This led to her becoming a little more immersed in the political world.
Paulina Porizkova
In 1988, Paulina Porizkova signed what was, at the time, the biggest modeling contract in history. Estee Lauder gave her six million dollars to be the new face of the company. However, Porizkova eventually admitted that she hated modeling, and she stepped away to try her hand at something much easier: acting.
Her films include “Portfolio,” “Covergirl,” “Anna,” and “Her Alibi.” 2007 saw her becoming a contestant on “Dancing with the Stars,” and in 2010, she became a guest judge on “America's Next Top Model.” Writing has also been a constant passion in Porizkokva's life – she wrote a children's book in 1992; a novel about a young girl getting into modeling in 2007; and in 2009, she started blogging at the Huffington Post.
Karen Mulder
There wasn't a single big designer out there who didn't want Dutch model Karen Mulder to pose for their brand. These include Giorgio Armani, Versace, and Yves Saint Laurent. She had a “Vogue” cover, had a turn with Victoria's Secret, and, yes, posed for the “Sports Illustrated Swimsuit” issue.
Retiring from modeling at the age of thirty in 2000, she revealed she struggled with mental health issues and made shocking allegations against her former bosses, as well as against Prince Albert of Monaco. Despite her early retirement, Karen Mulder's impact on the fashion industry was undeniable. Her stunning features and versatile appeal made her a highly sought-after muse for renowned designers.
Carol Alt
There are few supermodels more all-American than Carol Alt. She has been turning heads since she was born in 1960. In the eighties alone, she had over FIVE HUNDRED magazine covers. It wasn't just high fashion for Alt, either; she appeared in ads for brands like Diet Pepsi and General Motors.
Carol has now branched out to be a reality TV contestant, a TV show presenter, and even an actress, with a number of starring roles on Italian TV. In her love life, she seems to have a thing for hockey players, having married both Ron Greschner and Alexei Yashin. She and Yashin are still going strong.
Lesley Lawson
It is not a wild thing to call Twiggy, real name Lesley Lawson, the world's first supermodel. Her skeletal figure made for the perfect display in the sixty's beauty ideal, and she represents the London mod scene even to this day. Quite a remarkable fact, when you think about it.
Twiggy moved on to other successful ventures, such as doing some acting and appearing as a judge on “America's Next Top Model.” Today, Lawson is well-known for her charity work as an animal rights activist, often encouraging everyone to stop wearing fur. She is also a full-time supporter of medical research groups.
Christie Brinkley
Even while she was one of the most highly regarded and sought after models in the world, Christie Brinkley was looking ahead to bigger and better things. When her modeling offers started to wind down, she turned to film and television and even had a short stint as a talk show host on CNN.
She has also gotten involved with a number of charities, with the two most notable being UNICEF and the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Brinkley is also a great singer and dancer, and even had a successful time on the stage. She played the role of Roxie Hart in the show “Chicago.”
Molly Sims
After dropping out of college to pursue modeling in 1993, it took Molly Sims some time to make it big despite her obvious natural beauty. In a flash, Molly started to get roles in “House of Style,” “Starsky & Hutch,” as well as showing off her beauty on “Sports Illustrated Swimsuit,” where she gained plenty of fans.
With her acting, her modeling, and her family (she married Scott Stuber and has three children), she is a busy bee. She did manage to find enough time in her schedule, however, to be a global ambassador for Services International's Five & Alive program.
Gisele
She was named the most beautiful girl in the world by “Rolling Stone,” and was also the highest-paid model in the world at a certain time. Originally from Brazil, Gisele's first modeling job was with a fast-food restaurant. After that initial job, she quickly rose to model stardom.
Gisele has used her name for good by launching a water conservation and plant recovery project called Agua Limpa. She also acts as a United Nations Environment Program goodwill ambassador. Gisele's philanthropic efforts extend beyond environmental causes. She established the "Gisele Bündchen Foundation" to support education, healthcare, and environmental initiatives for vulnerable communities.
Daria Werbowy
Polish Daria Werbowy didn't expect to become a huge modeling star – at first, she just did it on the side in order to fund her art school education. She ended up signing an exclusive contract with Prada in her first week under Elite Model Management.
Even to this day, Daria holds a record in the modeling world: she has opened and closed the most shows in a single season. These include Chanel, Dior, La Perla, and Hermes, just to name a few. Her abrupt departure from the modeling world in 2008 speaks to the idea that it was never her intended career path. She now lives on the Irish coast with her boyfriend.
Natalia Vodianova
Discovered at the age of fifteen, it wasn't long before Natalia Vodianova signed a seven-figure contract with Calvin Klein. The contract went on for eight seasons, which resulted in some of the brand's most scandalous ads to date. More than two hundred runway appearances came next, followed by lots of magazine covers.
With all that, who would have expected that now she is, of all things, a tech mogul? In 2015 she started Elbi, an online platform that strives to make philanthropy available to anyone that has a computer or a phone. Vodianova also founded the Naked Heart Foundation, a charity that provides resources for underprivileged children in Russia.
Alessandra Ambrosio
Alessandra Ambrosio made it big fast and was able to leverage the fame she gained as a lingerie model into high-fashion jobs. This included working with Bottega Veneta and Oscar de la Renta. After plenty of time on runways and magazine covers, she announced her retirement.
Only two years later, she launched Gal Floripa, a company that offered lifestyle and swimwear options inspired by female power, motherhood, and Brazil, her home country. Gal Floripa quickly gained popularity, attracting a loyal customer base worldwide. Alessandra's dedication to empowering women through fashion resonated, and her brand expanded to include activewear and accessories.
Rachel Hunter
Most of the supermodels in the world have come from America or western Europe, but Rachel Hunter is from the opposite end of the world: New Zealand. Even though she wanted to be a dancer when she was a child, she turned to modeling when she was seventeen.
It didn't take long for the world to notice her, and the magazines started calling her, asking for covers. Now she is a full-time mother of two and has a number of TV appearances, including her show “Rachel Hunter's Tour of Beauty.” Even decades after her first campaign, Rachel still looks great and still does some modeling.
Christy Turlington
Still much in demand even now, Turlington has done quite a bit off the runway. That's not to say she was a failure as a model – quite the opposite. She has now become a big anti-smoking advocate and focuses a lot of her time on maternal health. Her documentary “No Woman, No Cry” explores the different methods of maternal health around the world.
Christy has helped found a non-profit called Every Mother Counts. Thanks to Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health, she's made efforts to gain a Master's degree. She is also a yogi and still does a bit of modeling work here and there.
Eva Herzigova
Eva Herzigova rose to fame when she appeared in a 1996 Wonderbra ad. The ad had the beautiful model in a black Wonderbra, accompanied by the caption “Hello boys.” Though it gained international attention and resulted in plenty of imitations, there were also plenty of complaints that the ad wasn't in good taste.
It should be clear by now that Herzigova's modeling career was incredibly successful. But that's not all she has been renowned for. When she got tired of the catwalk, she went into the film industry. Two movies gave her starring roles. These were 2013's “Cha Cha Cha,” and 2014's “Storyteller.”
Linda Evangelista
Things don't always come easy. Linda Evangelista nearly quit the industry after being asked to pose for an adult magazine. Despite wanting to quit, she followed her mother's advice and stuck with it. After cutting her hair short, she lost a lot of traction, yet after a little bit of time, people started gushing about her new hairdo.
One of her most famous quotes was about how models won't get out of bed for less than $10,000. Her activism includes supporting research and awareness of different illnesses. VH1 awarded her a Fashion Awards Lifetime Achievement Award in 1996, and she got into the Canada Walk of Fame in 2003.
Janice Dickinson
It only took winning a modeling competition as a teen for Janice Dickinson to head to New York City in the seventies to advance her career. Less than ten years later, she was earning two grand a day (worth about seven thousand in today's money), and she started hitting magazine covers at a startling rate.
Janice proclaimed herself the world's first supermodel, and she's maintained a high profile in the fashion industry despite now being in her sixties. TV saw her as a judge for a few seasons of “America's Next Top Model,” and she has also appeared on VH1's “Couples Therapy.”
Pat Cleveland
You might find this hard to believe, but Pat Cleveland did not have an easy time booking modeling jobs until she traveled to Europe in 1970. She vowed not to return to the States until Vogue put a black model on the cover. And she stayed true to her word and kept the promise.
She finally went back to her home country in 1974. Pat modeled until the eighties and started her own agency in Milan, Italy. Still a part-time model until this very day, Pat has branched out quite a bit, even getting into writing and publishing a volume of poetry in 2001.
Stephanie Seymour
Stephanie Seymour started at the top. Her first contracts were with Victoria's Secret and “Sports Illustrated” swimsuit issues. She quickly became famous and gained even more notoriety, for better or worse, when she posed for an adult magazine in 1993. For the most part, Seymour is still modeling, but she has also edged a little bit into acting.
Stephanie had a small role in the movie “Pollack,” which appeared in “Law & Order: Criminal Intent,” and provided the character in the live-action video game “Hell: A Cyberpunk Thriller.” Her published book is full of beauty tips, and she has also done plenty of ads for clothing and cosmetic products.
Karlie Kloss
When Karlie Kloss first started modeling at the age of fourteen, she was bouncing between agencies, but by the time she was sixteen, she walked sixty-four shows during fashion month. Kloss was a muse for John Galliano, and a regular part of Dior shows, also becoming the face of Estee Lauder and Swarovski Crystals.
She still struts the runway on occasion but has also been branching out. For instance, in 2015, she launched Kode with Klossy, a scholarship program for young girls interested in STEM fields. Alongside Christian Siriano and Brandon Maxwell, she is a host on the hit show “Project Runway.”
Heidi Klum
Perhaps one of the most famous supermodels alive today, Klum's career took off in 1997 when booked a job as a Victoria's Secret Angel and graced the cover of the “Sports Illustrated Swimsuit” issue. Klum became one of the biggest models ever, landing deals with brands like McDonald's, Liz Claiborne, and Volkswagen.
Heidi has won Emmys, designed lingerie, judged “America's Got Talent,” had four children, and gotten married twice, first to singer Seal and then to Tokio Hotel guitarist Tom Kaulitz. Her newest work, the Amazon Prime show alongside Tim Gunn, “Making the Cut,” came out back in March 2020.
Kathy Ireland
Kathy Ireland got her start as a famous model, but her real skills lie in the business world. It all began back in 1993 when she took out a whopping fifty thousand dollar loan to launch her own brand of socks. Not perfume, undergarments, or shoes, but socks. Can you imagine?
You may be familiar with the Kathy Ireland Worldwide brand, sometimes branded kiWW, which is now a marketing firm. The firm boasts more than one billion dollars in sales annually, so the lesson is clear: If you want to make a fortune, socks are a great place to start. Believe it or not.
Lara Stone
Before she was even at the age where she was allowed to drive legally, Lara Stone had already been signed to Elite Modeling Agency. Ever since then, she has been showing off the gap in her teeth and her bright blonde brows on the runway, working for the likes of Stella McCartney and Prada.
Lara's look was so iconic and memorable that, amazingly, it inspired Tyra Banks to have a contestant's tooth gap widened on season sixteen of “America's Next Top Model.” Now closer to forty than thirty, Stone is still a model and is entirely recognizable all the way across the fashion world.
Devon Aoki
Devon Aoki – the name might be familiar – ruled more than just the fashion world, you know. She had a debut season that made her famous almost right away, and then she became a design muse for Karl Lagerfeld. For several seasons, Devon closed out his shows as his Chanel bride.
She also appeared on screen, wowing audiences with her beauty in “2 Fast 2 Furious” and “Sin City.” Now retired from the runway, Aoki lives with her husband, James Bailey, and their three children. Her brother, musician Steve Aoki, has featured her in several of his music videos.
Coco Rocha
Coco Rocha was in an Irish dance competition in 2002 when she was scouted, launching a decade-plus career with plenty of fashion campaigns, runway walks, and even editorials. People called her the “Queen of Pose” because she was both regal and intentional in her posing.
In 2016, Rocha purchased the ownership stake of the Nomad Mgmt Modeling Agency, becoming a brand director who helps map the careers of younger models. As a private trainer, she's worked with both Kendall and Kylie Jenner and has launched the Coco Rocha Camp, a four-day master class for those who want to become models.
Yasmin Le Bon
Born in 1964 to Iranian-English parents, Yasmin Le Bon brought a combination of traditional western beauty and exoticism. Her break came in 1987 when "Guess" hired her to be the face of a new campaign, and it was only the beginning.
Magazine covers and runways helped her become famous, but she has remained grounded – she and her husband, Duran Duran's Simon Le Bon, are still married after over thirty years. Le Bon still does a bit of modeling, and in 2012 she even posed in a dress that weighed more than a hundred pounds – almost as much as she did.
Kristen McMenamy
Kristen McMenamy was a big name in the modeling industry from 1985 to 1998, and she continues to model right up to this very day. While still maintaining a career, she has also had time to build her own family, mothering three children along the way.
McMenamy closed the Chanel Haute couture spring/summer fashion show in 2011 and, in the same year, starred in a short film titled “The Tale of a Fairy.” 2012 saw her appearing in Givenchy and Gaultier campaigns, and in 2013 she got divorced and walked in the Atelier Versace spring/summer fashion show. She just can't be stopped!
Kristen McMenamy
Kristen McMenamy was a big name in the modeling industry from 1985 to 1998, and she continues to model to this day. While still maintaining a career, she has also had time to build her own family, mothering three children.
McMenamy closed the Chanel Haute couture spring/summer fashion show in 2011 and, in the same year, starred in a short film titled “The Tale of a Fairy.” 2012 saw her appearing in Givenchy and Gaultier campaigns, and in 2013 she got divorced and walked in the Atelier Versace spring/summer fashion show. She just can't be stopped!
Elle Macpherson
Elle Macpherson's face has been all over the place. She was on Sports Illustrated's front page five times, she was the face of Victoria's Secret, and Christian Dior was a big fan of hers too. This prolific supermodel rose to fame after appearing in a Coca-Cola ad wearing a string bikini.
The Stunning Australian did not always want to become a supermodel. Initially, she planned on becoming an attorney; however, while she was paying her tuition fees by modeling, she found herself modeling full time and becoming very successful. These days she is a flourishing businesswoman with her own skincare line.
Christy Turlington
In 1989 Christy Turlington was Calvin Klein's face. In 2014 she claimed the title once again. Over the years, Turlington has worked for Luis Vuitton, Versace, Michal Kors, and Prada. Years later, she decided to take a new path in life and studied law.
Christy Turlington's illustrious modeling career paved the way for her impactful work as an advocate and philanthropist. Her dedication to maternal health and women's rights resonates through her involvement with organizations like CARE and her partnership with Harvard Medical School's Global Health Council. On top of that, she is involved with Harvard Medical School and its Global Health Council.
Carolyn Murphy
The 1990s were the golden days for the one and only Carolyn Murphy. In 1998 she won the title Model of the Year, given to her by Vogue. That same year, Calvin Klein fell in love with the model too, and she became their ambassador as well.
In 2005 she was all over the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue and has been known for her campaigns with Versace and Missoni. When Incubus released their song “Are You In?”, Murphy was the one who starred in the video. These days she invests her time in meditation, and she is also a consultant.
Carmen Kass
Incredible supermodels hail from all over the world, from virtually every country. Carmen Kass was born in Estonia, and her face has been adorning the companies of Michael Kors, Chanel, Dior, Calvin Klein, Versace, and more. She first began modeling when she was just 14 years old.
She was discovered in Italy, but only after moving to Paris, she made it big. Besides modeling, Kass has quite an extraordinary life. She used to be the president of the Estonian Chess Federation, and in 2004 she became a candidate for the European Parliament. She is much more than just a pretty face.
Milla Jovovich
Milla Jovovich is not just a stunning model who has dazzled many a catwalk over the last 30 years — she is also a very talented movie star. She has shown up in many films in her illustrious career. One of her most significant roles is Alice in the movie "Resident Evil." In 1997 she caught public awareness with her role in "The Fifth Element" alongside Bruce Willis.
In the early 2000s, Jovovich was the highest-paid model of her time. For more than three decades, Milla has been adorning magazine covers, billboards, and the catwalk, and since 1998 she had been an international spokesmodel for L'Oreal Cosmetics.
Elsa Benitez
Mexican model Elsa Benitez began her journey way back in 1995 when she participated in a beauty pageant in Costa Rica. The 2001 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue had Elsa Benitez all over it, and from there, she was on the road to success. She has had her share of television appearances too.
She made herself a reputation in her homeland before rowing into the United States and, eventually, Europe. In 2009 she hosted "Mexico’s Next Top Model" and held that position until 2012. Elsa Benitez's rise to fame from a beauty pageant contestant to a renowned international model exemplifies her exceptional talent and determination.
Yamila Diaz-Rahi
Yamila Diaz-Rahi is the first Latina to represent the cosmetic company CoverGirl. Almost three decades ago, she became globally famous after appearing on the Sports Illustrated cover, and that is not where it ends. Elle, Glamour, and other magazines have all had their share of this beauty.
She was discovered in the South American country of Uruguay while she was on vacation, and not long after, she was already assigned to a modeling agency in Milan. With her extensive portfolio in top fashion magazines, she left an indelible mark in the industry. These days, she models very rarely and spends her time doing pottery.
Marisa Miller
Since joining Victoria's Secret as an Angel in 2007, Marisa Miller has captivated the fashion world. Her striking beauty has graced numerous covers, including those of Sports Illustrated and other esteemed magazines, earning her the title of "The return of the Great American Supermodel."
What sets Miller apart is her passion for automobiles and motorbikes, a rare trait among models. As a brand ambassador for Harley-Davidson, she not only lent her charm but also obtained her very own motorbike license. Now proudly cruising the streets, Miller rides a sleek Harley Nightster, exemplifying her adventurous spirit and adding a touch of glamour to the world of motorcycles.
Petra Nemcova
There are not many world-famous Czech models out there, but the few that made it are absolutely stunning, and Petra Nemcova is one of them. She was discovered in her hometown of Prague, and shortly after, she signed up with an agent in Milan. From the Czech Republic to northern Italy, now that's the kind of journey we'd like to go on.
From 2003 until 2008, she appeared in the swimsuit issue of Sports Illustrated. She has also led huge campaigns with Elle Magazine, Marie Claire, and others. In 2004 she established Happy Hearts Fund, a charity organization that operates until this very day.
Ana Beatriz Barros
At the tender age of 13, Ana Beatriz Barros embarked on her modeling journey in her native Brazil, capturing the attention of an Elite Model agent. From that pivotal moment, her path to success was set in motion. In 1998, Barros participated in the prestigious Elite Model Look competition, achieving an impressive second place.
Since then, she has become a prominent figure in the fashion world, gracing the catwalks and campaigns of renowned brands like Gucci and Versace. Despite her illustrious career, Barros gracefully balances her professional life with motherhood, cherishing the role of raising her two beautiful children while continuing to inspire and amaze through her modeling endeavors.
Selita Ebanks
How many top supermodels do you know from the Cayman Islands (part of the Caribbean islands)? Well, there is only one we were able to find, and her name is Selita Ebanks. She is a Victoria's Secret Angel, and she held that title from 2005 until 2009.
In 2004, Selita opened her own talent school, and she has been running it ever since. Ebanks is living proof that you don't have to live in a big city to make it big, and even if you are born on an island that no one has heard of, the sky is the limit.
Joan Smalls
In the realm of supermodels, Joan Smalls stood tall in 2013, securing the eighth spot among the highest-paid in the industry. Since 2011, she has been the iconic face of Estée Lauder, making history as the first Latina beauty to represent the brand. With an astounding annual income exceeding $2.5 million, Smalls continues to soar to new heights.
Her impact extends far beyond the glitz and glamour, as she has become a beacon of inspiration for black and Latina girls worldwide. Through her confidence and unwavering presence, Smalls has earned the admiration of many, cementing her status as a true role model for aspiring models and beyond.
Rosie Huntington-Whitely
Rosie Huntington-Whitely has been modeling for about two decades. During her illustrious career, she has accomplished what others don't do in a lifetime. During her school days, she used to work behind the scenes for a London-based modeling agency. That was her first step toward her dream.
At 16, she had her first modeling gig with no other than Levi's. It was not long before Victoria's Secret came knocking on her door. But her success hasn't ended with her endeavors on the catwalk. She invested her days in acting, too, and is known for her role in the movie "Mad Max: Fury Road."
Miranda Kerr
Miranda Kerr began her career in the late 1990s, but it was in 2007 that she had her big breakthrough. She is the first Australian model to become a Victoria's Secret Angel and is known as the brand's ambassador in her homeland.
Kerr wasn't satisfied with just modeling, and she has her own skincare line called Kora. Miranda is a real beauty and is known as a pleasure to work with all over the industry. She continues to model and has been described as having: "the cheeks of a chipmunk, the smile of an angel, and the body of a devil."
Daniela Peštová
Daniela Peštová is another world-famous model who hails from the beautiful country of the Czech Republic. She never really dreamt of being a model. She planned to pursue a higher education, and after winning a modeling competition, she decided to put her higher education on hold.
After winning the pageant, she moved to Paris and became one of the most successful models in the world. She has been on the covers of all glamorous magazines and has accompanied the biggest names in the industry on the catwalk. Pestova has well passed her 50th birthday, she no longer models, but her name lives forever.
Hannelore Knuts
More than two decades ago, Hannelore Knuts entered the fashion world and it is safe to say that she never looked back. She has since constantly been on the cover of the ItalianVogue magazine and would go on to model for Gucci, Chanel, and others.
Knuts was one of the biggest names of her time and one of the most successful models altogether. Besides being a model, she is also a very successful artist and takes part in exhibitions and presentations. She is known as the model who had 365 layers of makeup applied on her face as part of an art project held in 2011.
Audrey Marnay
Audrey Marnay was born more than four decades ago, and since the early days, she was destined for great things. And that was clear to see from very early on in her career. At just 15 years of age, she was already signed up with a Parisian model agency.
And less than a year later, she was on the cover of the Italian Vogue and was named a top model. Marnay has been associated with the biggest names in the industry, such as Elle, Lanvin, and many others. She is also an actress and is best known for her performances in "The Monuments Men," which was aired in 2014.
Carmen Dell’Orefice
Today, Carmen Dell'Orefice proudly carries the title of the oldest living supermodel, a testament to her enduring passion and indomitable spirit. Born in 1931, Dell'Orefice embarked on her modeling journey at the tender age of 15 and has never looked back. Remarkably, she holds the distinction of being the youngest model ever to grace the cover of Vogue.
In 2011, her outstanding contributions to the fashion industry were honored with an esteemed honorary degree. Even in her 90s, Dell'Orefice continues to make waves, representing renowned brands like Missoni and Sephora with grace and style. Her unwavering presence serves as an inspiration to models of all ages.
Erin O’ Connor
Erin O'Connor has been the living subject of many top of the line designers and artists. She has walked the Chanel and Versace catwalks, and her face has been spread on numerous billboards over the years. Her iconic hairstyle and her imperfection have made Erin one of the most successful models of our era.
Jean Paul Gaultier has Erin as the face of his fragrance collection as she brings beauty that will never go out of date or age. She represents Toni & Guy, she writes a column in a British fashion magazine, and she is for sure one of a kind.