Before the digital age brought us influencers and a constant stream of curated content, there were the supermodels. The 1990s stand as a truly golden era for fashion, a time when these extraordinary women transcended the role of simply modeling clothes. They were the very moment itself, commanding attention and shaping global beauty standards with every runway strut, magazine cover, and iconic campaign.
Their names became as recognizable as any Hollywood A-lister, their faces synonymous with aspiration, glamour, and an undeniable power. From dominating the haute couture runways of Paris and Milan to starring in groundbreaking music videos and global advertising campaigns, these supermodels weren’t just trendsetters; they were cultural phenomena. They defined an entire decade, leaving an indelible mark on fashion and beauty that continues to inspire mood boards and TikTok feeds today.
This in-depth look pays tribute to 15 of these trailblazing women, many of whom were central figures in the public consciousness, famously including the “Big Six” whose collective star power was unparalleled. While some were household names, others were quietly breaking boundaries and bringing a new wave of diversity and distinctiveness to an industry on the cusp of significant change. Let’s delve into the lives and careers of seven of these legendary figures who, through their unique beauty and undeniable presence, profoundly shaped the ’90s and continue to captivate us.
1. **Claudia Schiffer: The Brigitte Bardot of the ’90s**Claudia Schiffer, with her striking blonde hair, flawless complexion, and piercing blue eyes, was frequently hailed as the next Brigitte Bardot. Her captivating presence made her an instant favorite of Karl Lagerfeld, who often chose her as his muse for Chanel. She graced countless runways and campaigns, becoming one of the most recognizable faces of the decade.
Her collaborations with luxury brands were numerous, but perhaps her most memorable campaign was for Guess?, which perfectly showcased her classic, bombshell appeal. Schiffer embodied a sophisticated yet accessible glamour, making high fashion feel aspirational to a wide audience. Her prolific appearances across fashion shows, magazine covers, and campaigns solidified her status as a global icon.
Even today, Schiffer lives a quieter life, yet her legacy endures. She still occasionally works in the industry, notably walking the runway of Versace’s Spring 2024 show, proving that her timeless beauty and allure remain as captivating as ever. Her influence helped cement the idea of a supermodel as a glamorous, unattainable ideal, yet one that women around the world could admire and aspire to.
2. **Linda Evangelista: The Chameleon of the Catwalk**Linda Evangelista famously declared she “wouldn’t get out of bed for less than $10,000,” a quote that perfectly encapsulated the immense power and earning potential of the ’90s supermodels. Her extraordinary ability to transform her entire look, whether with a dramatic haircut or a single piercing stare, earned her the nickname “the chameleon.” This versatility made her an absolute favorite among top designers.
Evangelista’s distinctive cheekbones were often described as art, providing a sculpted elegance that photographers adored. She appeared on an astonishing 700 magazine covers, cementing her status as one of the most influential models of the era and a key member of the “Big Six” who dominated the fashion landscape. Her constantly changing hairstyles were eagerly followed by fans, highlighting her trendsetting impact.
Despite recent health challenges that led her to largely withdraw from modeling, Evangelista’s iconic status remains undiminished. She notably appeared on the September 2023 cover of British Vogue alongside Cindy Crawford, Naomi Campbell, and Christy Turlington, a testament to her enduring legacy and her profound impact on the industry. Her bold attitude and transformative beauty truly set a benchmark for supermodel stardom.
3. **Christy Turlington: The Epitome of Grace and Serenity**Christy Turlington exuded an elegant, serene, and almost angelic quality that set her apart as the quiet queen of the ’90s runway. She personified an effortless grace, often appearing calm and composed amidst the high-energy world of fashion. Calvin Klein, in particular, built much of its brand identity on her iconic face, showcasing her timeless appeal.
Turlington was not only a celebrated model but also a quiet pioneer, making yoga chic long before it became a mainstream trend. Her influence extended beyond fashion into lifestyle, embodying a holistic approach to beauty and well-being. She graced iconic campaigns, including those for Calvin Klein and Maybelline, and appeared on countless magazine covers throughout the decade.
Today, Turlington has dedicated much of her time to humanitarian work as the founder of Every Mom Counts, a testament to her commitment beyond the catwalk. However, she still makes impactful appearances in the fashion world, notably closing out the Ralph Lauren September 2023 show. Her enduring elegance and powerful presence continue to inspire, demonstrating that true beauty radiates from within and without.
4. **Kate Moss: The Grunge Icon Who Broke the Mold**While many supermodels of the era delivered undeniable drama and glamour, Kate Moss brought an entirely different, cooler vibe to the fashion world. With her petite frame and grunge-inspired style, she broke the traditional mold of what a supermodel should look like. She became the defining face of the controversial “heroin chic” aesthetic, a look that either garnered immense love or intense hatred, but was never ignored.
Discovered at just 14, Moss quickly rose to prominence, appearing on virtually every major magazine cover and walking countless runways and campaigns. Photographer Thierry Le Gouës famously proclaimed, “Kate [Moss] is the ’90s girl. No one was, or is, quite as emblematic,” perfectly capturing her unique significance. She embodied a raw, unconventional beauty that challenged established norms.
Moss’s influence on trends, particularly the deliberately thin eyebrows that became popular, is undeniable. She continues to be a significant presence in the fashion world, serving as a contributing fashion editor at British Vogue and frequently appearing on red carpets and at fashion week events. Her enduring impact lies in her ability to redefine beauty, proving that authenticity and attitude could be just as aspirational as traditional glamour.
5. **Naomi Campbell: The Fierce Force of Nature**Naomi Campbell was not merely a model; she was an unparalleled force of nature on and off the runway. Renowned for having the most unforgettable walk in the business, her fierce presence made her a permanent fixture in campaigns and editorials across the globe. She broke significant racial barriers in an industry predominantly dominated by white models, becoming the first Black model to appear on the covers of French Vogue and TIME, and the first Black model to grace the coveted September cover for American Vogue.
Her immense confidence and powerful persona made her the epitome of a supermodel who owned her space. Campbell’s versatility saw her appear in music videos, notably Michael Jackson’s “In The Closet,” and she also pursued careers as an actor and singer, showcasing her multi-faceted talent. She was also a prominent figure in George Michael’s iconic “Freedom! ’90” video, further cementing her cultural impact.
Today, Campbell remains as busy as ever, engaging in humanitarian work and continuing her active involvement in the fashion industry. The V&A Museum is even dedicating a retrospective exhibition to her in June 2024, a testament to her enduring legacy as one of the top, boundary-breaking models of all time. Her career is a masterclass in not just modeling, but in commanding influence and challenging the status quo.
6. **Cindy Crawford: The All-American Icon with Brains and Business Savvy**Cindy Crawford, with her distinctive mole, voluminous hair, and iconic Pepsi commercial, was the quintessential all-American beauty of the ’90s. She brought not only her stunning looks but also formidable brains and business savvy to the catwalk, becoming one of the first models to successfully cross over into mainstream celebrity territory. Her global appeal was undeniable.
Crawford’s presence in popular culture extended beyond commercials and campaigns. She starred alongside other supermodels like Naomi Campbell in George Michael’s “Freedom! ’90” video, a cultural touchstone of the decade. She also famously attended the Oscars with then-boyfriend Richard Gere, wearing one of the second most-well-known Versace dresses of all time, solidifying her place in fashion history.
Often known today as “mom to Kaia Gerber,” Crawford’s early work laid the foundation for a new kind of supermodel – one who was both aspirational and relatable. She delved into acting and continued to leverage her brand long after the initial ’90s supermodel craze waned, demonstrating an astute understanding of personal branding and longevity. Her impact on beauty and media remains significant, proving that a supermodel could be both a captivating face and a shrewd entrepreneur.
7. **Helena Christensen: The Mesmerizing Muse of Music and Fashion**Helena Christensen didn’t just model; she truly mesmerized. She rose to significant fame as the sultry star of Chris Isaak’s iconic “Wicked Game” music video, a role that perfectly showcased her smoldering stare and killer cheekbones. Beyond music, she also commanded the runways, becoming a prominent figure in the fashion world with her distinctive beauty.
Christensen was a spokesmodel for Revlon, further cementing her status as a beauty icon, and was a recognizable Victoria’s Secret Angel. Her ability to captivate audiences, whether in a high-fashion editorial or a mass-market campaign, highlighted her versatile appeal. She embodied a confident sensuality that was both aspirational and approachable.
Today, Christensen continues to work as a model and has dedicated her efforts to humanitarian causes, serving as an ambassador for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Her career arc demonstrates a beautiful balance between high-profile fashion work and a commitment to making a difference, proving that the ’90s supermodels were much more than just pretty faces.
Now, let’s continue our deep dive into the extraordinary women who captivated the world during the 1990s, expanding beyond the initial trailblazers. These eight additional powerhouse supermodels each brought their own distinct flair, redefining beauty standards, breaking barriers, and leaving an indelible mark on an industry in flux. Their careers were a testament to versatility, strength, and an undeniable allure that continues to resonate today, proving that the influence of a true supermodel extends far beyond the catwalk.
8. **Tyra Banks: The Queen of Smize and Empowerment**Before she became a household name as the host of “America’s Next Top Model,” Tyra Banks was a formidable presence on the runway, making an undeniable splash at Paris Fashion Week in the early ’90s. Her magnetic charisma and stunning looks quickly propelled her to the forefront of the industry. She wasn’t just modeling clothes; she was breaking barriers, setting a new standard for what a supermodel could be.
Tyra’s career truly skyrocketed when she became a Victoria’s Secret Angel in 1997, a moment that cemented her status as a global icon. That same year, she made history as the first Black woman to grace the cover of the Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue, shattering long-standing industry norms. Her instantly iconic smile and powerful presence helped her cross over into mainstream commercial success, becoming a recognizable face to millions.
Beyond her groundbreaking modeling career, Tyra Banks leveraged her platform to champion diversity and body positivity, famously coining the term “smize.” She went on to create and host “America’s Next Top Model” and “The Tyra Banks Show,” expanding her influence into television and media. Her journey from runway sensation to media mogul is a powerful testament to her ambition and enduring impact, continuing to empower and inspire generations.
9. **Stephanie Seymour: The Glamorous Rock Star Muse**Stephanie Seymour perfectly embodied the fusion of supermodel glamour and rockstar mystique, becoming a true face of ’90s high fashion. She effortlessly blurred the lines between the runway and celebrity culture, often seen strutting for top designers like Versace and starring in iconic music videos for legendary bands like Guns N’ Roses. Her poses were never boring, always radiating an intense, captivating energy.
Originally rising to prominence in the late ’80s, Stephanie continued to dominate the fashion scene throughout the ’90s. She was a fixture on the covers of prestigious magazines like American Vogue and became a celebrated Victoria’s Secret Angel. Her ability to command attention, whether in a high-fashion editorial or a mass-market campaign, made her a sought-after talent.
Beyond her modeling triumphs, Seymour also ventured into other creative endeavors, famously writing “Beauty Secrets for Dummies” in 1998. She continues to be an active presence in the fashion and beauty world, notably named the face of Estee Lauder in 2014. Her legacy is one of unapologetic glamour and a fearless blend of fashion and fame.
10. **Tatjana Patitz: The Mysterious and Iconic Muse**Tatjana Patitz was a quiet legend, possessing a mysterious energy that truly set her apart from her more flamboyant peers. She wasn’t one for flashy theatrics, yet her presence in editorials and on the runway was utterly unforgettable. There was always a profound depth behind her gaze, drawing viewers into her ethereal world, making her a beloved muse for legendary photographers like Peter Lindburgh.
Patitz holds a significant place in ’90s fashion history as a member of the iconic January 1990 American Vogue cover, alongside Naomi Campbell, Christy Turlington, Cindy Crawford, and Linda Evangelista – a moment often credited with kicking off the supermodel era. Despite her prominence, she cultivated a more private life, residing in California rather than the bustling fashion capitals of New York, contributing to her enigmatic reputation and making her less visibly omnipresent than some of the other “supers.”
Unfortunately, the fashion world mourned her passing in January 2023 at the age of 56 from breast cancer. Yet, her legacy endures, characterized by an understated elegance and powerful, soulful beauty that inspired countless creatives. Tatjana Patitz proved that a supermodel’s impact could be profound even without constant fanfare, leaving an imprint through her timeless images and unique presence.
11. **Karen Mulder: The Angelic Face of Haute Couture**Karen Mulder, with her French allure and flawless features, was often described as having the face of an angel and the walk of a goddess. She became a major player in haute couture shows, captivating audiences with her otherworldly beauty that many said made her look like a living doll. Her ethereal quality made her a favorite among luxury fashion houses.
Mulder’s versatility allowed her to grace the runways for prestigious brands like Dior and Chanel, while also becoming one of the original Victoria’s Secret Angels. Her ability to transition from high-fashion runways to more commercial, yet still glamorous, campaigns showcased her broad appeal. She was also a Sports Illustrated swimsuit model, further demonstrating her range.
Beyond her modeling, Karen also explored a career as a singer and performer. While she later became critical of certain aspects of the modeling industry in the 2000s, her iconic image as a symbol of classic, delicate beauty remains. Her impact on shaping the aesthetic of the ’90s, particularly in haute couture, is undeniable.
12. **Amber Valletta: The Edgy Chameleon with Hollywood Aspirations**Amber Valletta was the quintessential edgy cool girl of the ’90s, possessing a chameleon-like versatility that allowed her to effortlessly shift between different looks and roles. With sharp features and an even sharper vibe, she quickly became a fashion darling, known for her ability to embody both high fashion glamour and a raw, unconventional beauty. She didn’t just model; she owned every frame and runway.
Valletta’s career wasn’t confined to the catwalk; she successfully transitioned into acting, starring in a number of notable films from the early 2000s, including “What Lies Beneath” and “Hitch,” and more recently in “Blood & Oil.” She also co-hosted MTV’s “House of Style,” further cementing her status in popular culture. Her work with fashion houses such as Gucci, Chanel, and Prada highlighted her immense range.
Even today, Amber Valletta continues to walk runways and engage in acting projects, demonstrating impressive longevity and an astute understanding of her brand. Her journey is a testament to the power of reinvention and remaining relevant in an ever-evolving industry, proving that a supermodel can indeed have a multifaceted and enduring career.
13. **Shalom Harlow: The Performance Artist of the Runway**There’s runway, and then there’s Shalom Harlow on the runway. Her movements were almost balletic, transforming a simple walk into a performance art piece. She possessed a unique look that was both delicate and powerfully expressive, making her an unforgettable presence. One of her most iconic moments involved being spray-painted live on stage during an Alexander McQueen show in 1998, a truly legendary fashion spectacle.
Harlow was not only a prominent and well-paid supermodel but also ventured into television, co-hosting MTV’s “House of Style” and appearing in films like “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days.” These roles showcased her magnetic personality and undeniable screen presence, broadening her appeal beyond the fashion elite. Her ability to convey emotion and character in front of the camera was unparalleled.
Her career highlights include countless magazine covers and campaigns, where she brought a unique blend of vulnerability and strength. Shalom Harlow remains involved in the fashion world, occasionally gracing the runway and continuing to be revered for her artistic approach to modeling. She redefined what it meant to embody fashion, making every appearance a memorable event.
14. **Eva Herzigová: The Iconic “Hello Boys” Sensation**Eva Herzigová became instantly recognizable worldwide after starring in the controversial yet iconic Wonderbra “Hello Boys” ad, a campaign that captured attention and never let it go. Her Marilyn-esque features, combined with a playful energy and undeniable sex appeal, made her a standout figure in the ’90s. Many would say she truly brought sexy back, long before it became a popular phrase.
This Czech model and actor quickly became a darling of preeminent fashion houses, working with luxury brands like Louis Vuitton and Versace. Her face graced the covers of numerous high-profile magazines, including American Vogue and Marie Claire, solidifying her status as a global beauty icon. She effortlessly blended commercial success with high fashion credibility.
Eva Herzigová continues her impressive career as a working model today and serves as an editor-at-large for Vogue Czechoslovakia. Her enduring charm and ability to captivate audiences, whether in a bold advertisement or a sophisticated editorial, highlight her timeless appeal and her lasting impact on fashion and beauty standards.
15. **Carla Bruni: From Supermodel to First Lady**Carla Bruni’s story reads like a fashion fairytale: a supermodel who became a singer, and later, the First Lady of France. Her career in the ’90s was marked by elegance and a sophisticated charm that made her a regular fixture in Vogue and on the runways of top designers like Valentino. She represented a different kind of glamour, one steeped in European chic and intellectual allure.
Starting her modeling career in the ’80s, Bruni quickly ascended to become one of the highest-paid models of the ’90s, working extensively with Christian Dior and Givenchy, among others. Her life outside of fashion was equally captivating, with high-profile relationships that kept her in the public eye, including those with Eric Clapton and Mick Jagger.
Her life took a significant turn when she married Nicolas Sarkozy, becoming the First Lady of France. After his presidency, Bruni returned to her passions, resuming both singing and modeling. In 2023, she bravely disclosed her battle with breast cancer in 2019, showcasing her strength beyond the spotlight. Carla Bruni’s multifaceted journey from the fashion elite to public service and back to her creative pursuits is a testament to her extraordinary range and enduring influence.
As we look back at these 15 extraordinary women, it’s clear that the 1990s were more than just a moment for fashion; they were a cultural epoch defined by these supermodels. They didn’t just wear clothes; they embodied aspiration, broke barriers, and set trends that continue to influence runways, street style, and even social media feeds today. From their sculpted cheeks to their confident strides, their legacy is a vibrant tapestry woven into the very fabric of beauty and style, proving that true icons never fade. They were, and remain, the ultimate pillars of glamour, forever etched into our collective imagination, reminding us of an era when fashion truly reigned supreme.
