In the dazzling realm of fashion, a select group of women have not only graced catwalks and magazine covers but have also become living legends in the industry. These iconic female models have shaped the course of fashion history with their distinctive beauty, charisma, and trailblazing spirit. Let’s embark on an enthralling journey through the lives, careers, and impact of the 20 most iconic female models in the world.
Top Female Models of the World
1. NAOMI CAMPBELL
Date of Birth: May 22, 1970
Height: 5’9″ (175 cm)
Biography: Born in London, England, in 1970, Naomi Campbell’s rise to fame began at the tender age of 15 when she was discovered by a scout. Her striking features and regal presence led her to international stardom, breaking barriers as one of the first black models to achieve supermodel status.
Modelling Career: Naomi’s illustrious career includes collaborations with top designers like Azzedine Alaïa, Versace, and Yves Saint Laurent. She’s graced numerous magazine covers, walked for prestigious fashion houses, and even dipped her toes into acting and music.
2. KATE MOSS
Date of Birth: January 16, 1974
Height: 5’7″ (170 cm)
Biography: Hailing from Croydon, England, Kate Moss was discovered at the age of 14 and soon became synonymous with the “heroin chic” look that defined the ’90s. Her petite frame and unconventional beauty catapulted her to international superstardom.
Modelling Career: Moss’s collaboration with Calvin Klein, along with her countless magazine covers and iconic campaigns, solidified her status as a fashion icon. Her influence extended beyond the runway, inspiring a new generation of models and designers.
3. GISELE BUNDCHEN
Date of Birth: July 20, 1980
Height: 5’11” (180 cm)
Biography: Hailing from Horizontina, Brazil, Gisele Bündchen burst onto the scene in the late ’90s and quickly became one of the highest-paid models in the world. Her statuesque figure and down-to-earth personality made her a global sensation.
Modelling Career: Gisele’s runway dominance for brands like Victoria’s Secret, Chanel, and Versace elevated her to iconic status. Her philanthropic efforts and commitment to environmental causes showcase her influence extends far beyond the catwalk.
4. CINDY CRAWFORD
Date of Birth: February 20, 1966
Height: 5’9″ (175 cm)
Biography: Cindy Crawford’s Midwest roots in DeKalb, Illinois, USA, didn’t stop her from becoming a global supermodel. Discovered at 16, her signature mole and girl-next-door charm made her an ’80s and ’90s icon.
Modelling Career: Cindy’s collaboration with iconic photographers and designers, including Richard Avedon and Gianni Versace, resulted in unforgettable campaigns and magazine covers. Her business ventures and philanthropic work continue to inspire.
5. TYRA BANKS
Date of Birth: December 4, 1973
Height: 5’10” (178 cm)
Biography: Tyra Banks, born in Inglewood, California, USA, burst onto the modelling scene in the late ’80s. Her fierce runway presence and magnetic personality led her to become one of the original Victoria’s Secret Angels.
Modelling Career: Tyra’s successful transition from modelling to television hosting, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy exemplifies her versatility. She became a role model for self-confidence and empowerment, hosting “America’s Next Top Model” and championing body positivity.
6. CHRISTY TURLINGTON
Date of Birth: January 2, 1969
Height: 5’10” (178 cm)
Biography: Christy Turlington, hailing from Walnut Creek, California, USA, graced the ’80s and ’90s fashion landscape with her timeless beauty and signature grace. Her impact extends beyond the runway into the realm of humanitarian efforts.
Modelling Career: Christy’s collaborations with designers like Calvin Klein and her commitment to promoting maternal health through her organization, Every Mother Counts, showcase her dedication to making a positive impact.
7. CLAUDIA SCHIFFER
Date of Birth: August 25, 1970
Height: 5’11” (180 cm)
Biography: German supermodel Claudia Schiffer epitomized the glamour of the ’90s. Born in Rheinberg, Germany, her blonde locks and blue eyes made her a global sensation.
Modelling Career: Claudia’s collaborations with iconic designers and photographers like Karl Lagerfeld and Herb Ritts cemented her status as a ’90s icon. Her timeless elegance and magazine covers continue to inspire generations.
8. LINDA EVANGELISTA
Date of Birth: May 10, 1965
Height: 5’9″ (175 cm)
Biography: Linda Evangelista’s ability to effortlessly transform her look earned her the title “the chameleon of fashion.” Hailing from St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada, her dynamic presence dominated the ’90s runway.
Modelling Career: Linda’s collaborations with legendary photographers like Steven Meisel resulted in countless iconic images. Her impact extended beyond the runway, shaping the era’s fashion and beauty ideals.
9. KARLIE KLOSS
Date of Birth: August 3, 1992
Height: 6’2″ (188 cm)
Biography: Born in Chicago, Illinois, USA, Karlie Kloss’s tall stature and unique look have set her apart as a modern supermodel. Her entrepreneurial ventures and commitment to education showcase her multi-faceted influence.
Modelling Career: Karlie’s collaborations with luxury brands and her dedication to tech education through Kode with Klossy highlight her role as a trailblazer in the digital age.
10. NATALIA VODIANOVA
Date of Birth: February 28, 1982
Height: 5’9″ (175 cm)
Biography: Natalia Vodianova’s inspiring journey from a small Russian town to international stardom is a true Cinderella story. Born in Gorky (now Nizhny Novgorod), Russia, her ethereal beauty and philanthropic endeavours have left an indelible mark.
Modelling Career: Natalia’s runway success, along with her work as an advocate for children’s charities, showcases her ability to make a positive impact on and off the catwalk.
11. HEIDI KLUM
Date of Birth: June 1, 1973
Height: 5’9″ (175 cm)
Biography: Hailing from Bergisch Gladbach, Germany, Heidi Klum’s radiant smile and timeless elegance have made her a fixture in the fashion world. Her enduring appeal extends beyond the runway, encompassing entrepreneurship and television hosting.
Modelling Career: Heidi’s collaboration with Victoria’s Secret and her role as a “Project Runway” host solidified her place as an influential figure in the industry.
12. ADRIANA LIMA
Date of Birth: June 12, 1981
Height: 5’10” (178 cm)
Biography: Adriana Lima’s captivating gaze and Brazilian charm earned her iconic status as a Victoria’s Secret Angel for nearly two decades. Born in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil, her dedication to fitness, fashion, and philanthropy is unparalleled.
Modelling Career: Adriana’s mesmerizing catwalk presence for brands like Maybelline, Givenchy, and Versace showcases her impact as one of the most recognizable faces in fashion history.
13. IRINA SHAYK
Date of Birth: January 6, 1986
Height: 5’10” (178 cm)
Biography: Irina Shayk’s smouldering beauty and magnetic presence have captivated audiences worldwide. Born in Yemanzhelinsk, Russia, her international success and striking features have made her an undeniable force in the industry.
Modelling Career: Irina’s collaborations with luxury brands and her appearances in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue highlight her versatile and alluring appeal.
14. IMAN
Date of Birth: July 25, 1955
Height: 5’9″ (175 cm)
Biography: Iman’s regal beauty and global influence transcend the runway. Born in Mogadishu, Somalia, her pioneering efforts for diversity in the industry and her impact on fashion and beauty standards are immeasurable.
Modelling Career: Iman’s collaborations with iconic designers and her philanthropic work, including support for refugees and her cosmetics line, showcase her multi-faceted influence.
15. BELLA HADID
Date of Birth: October 9, 1996
Height: 5’9″ (175 cm)
Biography: Bella Hadid’s edgy look and social media savvy have propelled her to supermodel status. Born in Washington, D.C., USA, her high-profile collaborations and striking presence on the runway have made her an influential figure.
Modelling Career: Bella’s appearances for luxury brands and her commitment to social activism highlight her impact on contemporary fashion and her generation.
16. JOAN SMALLS
Date of Birth: July 11, 1988
Height: 5’10” (178 cm)
Biography: Joan Smalls’s fierce runway presence and dedication to diversity make her a force to be reckoned with. Born in Hatillo, Puerto Rico, her trailblazing efforts and versatile appeal have left an indelible mark.
Modelling Career: Joan’s collaborations with top designers and her advocacy for representation and social justice showcase her role in reshaping the industry’s standards.
17. KATE UPTON
Date of Birth: June 10, 1992
Height: 5’10” (178 cm)
Biography: Hailing from St. Joseph, Michigan, USA, Kate Upton’s voluptuous curves and sunny personality have made her a symbol of American beauty. Her magazine covers, film appearances and body positivity advocacy continue to inspire.
Modelling Career: Kate’s campaigns for brands like Guess and Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue exemplify her captivating presence and appeal.
18. LIU WEN
Date of Birth: January 27, 1988
Height: 5’10” (178 cm)
Biography: Liu Wen’s groundbreaking success as a Chinese supermodel has reshaped the global fashion landscape. Born in Yongzhou, Hunan, China, her impact on diversifying the industry and her international campaigns showcase her significant contributions.
Modelling Career: Liu’s trailblazing efforts for inclusivity and her collaborations with luxury brands highlight her role in bridging cultures and reshaping beauty ideals.
19. NAOMI CHIN WING
Date of Birth: Born September 17, 1995
Height: 5’10” (178 cm)
Biography: Naomi Chin Wing’s emergence onto the scene has garnered attention for her distinctive look and unique presence. Born in Trinidad and Tobago, her fresh appeal and impact as a rising star signal a new era of diverse beauty standards.
Modelling Career: Naomi’s runway appearances and collaborations with designers reflect her ability to challenge norms and inspire a more inclusive future.
20. ASHLEY GRAHAM
Date of Birth: October 30, 1987
Height: 5’9″ (175 cm)
Biography: Born in Lincoln, Nebraska, USA, Ashley Graham’s advocacy for body positivity and inclusivity has made her a true trailblazer. Her impact as a curvy model and role model has reshaped beauty ideals and empowered countless individuals.
Modelling Career: Ashley’s groundbreaking appearances on magazine covers, her lingerie collections, and her candid discussions about self-love showcase her lasting influence on redefining beauty standards.
These 20 iconic female models have not only shaped the fashion industry but have also inspired generations with their beauty, influence, and advocacy. From breaking barriers to embracing diversity and promoting positive change, their impact resonates far beyond the runway. As we celebrate their legacies, let us honour their contributions to a more inclusive and empowering world of fashion.
Love,
Team LadyInRoseGold
