The fashion industry has seen a myriad of stunning and influential models who have left an indelible mark on the runway and in popular culture. These women have transcended the title of “model” to become icons in their own right. Here’s a closer look at some of the top fashion models of all time, their contributions, and their enduring legacies.
Naomi Campbell
Naomi Campbell is a name synonymous with supermodel status. Emerging in the late 1980s and becoming a dominant force in the 1990s, Campbell has graced the covers of over 500 magazines and was the first Black woman to appear on the cover of French Vogue. Known for her fierce walk and formidable presence, she has worked with every major fashion house, including Versace, Chanel, and Dior. Beyond modeling, Campbell has been involved in various charitable endeavors, particularly in Africa, making her a role model on and off the runway. One of her most iconic campaigns was for Versace’s Spring 1994 collection, showcasing her unparalleled runway presence.
Cindy Crawford
Cindy Crawford’s beauty mark and all-American looks made her one of the most recognizable faces of the 1990s. She has appeared on more than 1,000 magazine covers and was a staple of the fashion scene during her career peak. Crawford’s appeal extended beyond fashion; she hosted MTV’s “House of Style” and ventured into acting and business, launching her own line of beauty products and home furnishings. Her influence continues today, with her daughter, Kaia Gerber, following in her footsteps as a successful model. One of her most famous campaigns was the Pepsi Super Bowl commercial in 1992, which remains iconic to this day.
Gisele Bündchen
Hailing from Brazil, Gisele Bündchen redefined the modeling industry with her curvaceous figure at a time when waif-like models were the norm. She became a Victoria’s Secret Angel in 1999 and held the title for nearly a decade, which catapulted her to international fame. Bündchen has been the highest-paid model in the world for several years and has worked with top brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Dolce & Gabbana. Her successful transition into environmental activism and philanthropy underscores her multifaceted influence. One of her standout campaigns was for Chanel No. 5in 2014, directed by Baz Luhrmann.
Kate Moss
Discovered at the age of 14, Kate Moss became a fashion icon in the 1990s with her distinctive waifish look, which defined the “heroin chic” trend. Moss’s versatility and unique style have kept her at the forefront of the fashion industry for decades. She has collaborated with numerous high-profile designers and brands, including Calvin Klein, Burberry, and Alexander McQueen. Moss’s influence extends beyond modeling, with her ventures into fashion design and her enduring presence in the industry. One of her most memorable campaigns was the Calvin Klein Obsession ads in the early 90s, which cemented her status as a fashion icon.
Claudia Schiffer
Claudia Schiffer, a German supermodel, rose to fame in the early 1990s and became one of the most successful models of the era. Often compared to Brigitte Bardot, Schiffer’s blonde bombshell look made her a favorite for fashion campaigns and magazine covers. She has worked with iconic brands like Chanel, Versace, and Dolce & Gabbana. Schiffer’s longevity in the industry is a testament to her timeless beauty and professional versatility. One of her most iconic campaigns was for Guess in the early 90s, which helped launch her career internationally.
Linda Evangelista
Known for her chameleon-like ability to transform her look, Linda Evangelista has graced the covers of over 700 magazines. Her statement, “We don’t wake up for less than $10,000 a day,” epitomizes the era of the supermodel in the 1990s. Evangelista’s collaborations with photographers like Steven Meisel and designers such as Karl Lagerfeld and Gianni Versace have solidified her status as a fashion legend. One of her most iconic campaigns was for Versace’s Fall 1991 collection, which featured her in an unforgettable lineup of supermodels.
Tyra Banks
Tyra Banks broke barriers as the first Black woman to cover the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue and GQ. Her career spans runway modeling, acting, and television, where she created and hosted the successful reality TV show “America’s Next Top Model.” Banks has used her platform to advocate for body positivity and diversity in the fashion industry. One of her standout moments was her Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show performances, which showcased her dynamic presence and charisma.
Christy Turlington
Christy Turlington’s classic beauty and elegance made her a favorite of designers and photographers alike. She was part of the original “supermodel” group in the late 1980s and early 1990s and has worked with virtually every major fashion house. Turlington is also known for her philanthropic work, particularly in maternal health, through her organization Every Mother Counts. One of her most iconic campaigns was for Calvin Klein Eternity, which has been renewed multiple times over the years.
Bella Hadid
A contemporary face in the modeling world, Bella Hadid has quickly ascended to supermodel status with her striking features and confident runway presence. She has walked for top designers like Marc Jacobs, Givenchy, and Versace, and has graced numerous magazine covers. Hadid’s influence is also strong on social media, where she engages with millions of followers. One of her notable campaigns was for Dior Makeup, highlighting her impact on the beauty industry.
Kendall Jenner
Kendall Jenner, a member of the Kardashian-Jenner family, has carved out her own niche in the fashion world. Despite her reality TV background, Jenner has proven her modeling prowess, walking for high-profile designers such as Chanel, Balmain, and Givenchy. Her substantial social media presence has made her a significant influencer in the fashion industry. One of her standout campaigns was for Calvin Klein Underwear, which showcased her reach and appeal.
These models have not only shaped the fashion industry but also influenced popular culture and social trends. Their contributions go beyond the runway, highlighting their roles as pioneers, entrepreneurs, and philanthropists in their own right.