Anya Hindmarch Catwalk, Spring / Summer 2017 (2016) by Anya HindmarchOriginal Source: Anya Hindmarch
Fashion modeling is more than just striking a pose or wearing clothes well. It's about cultivating a look, personality, and attitude that defines the times in which you live. Looking back over the last 80 years, we've chosen six models that have truly defined their eras.
Spring Fashions (1950) by Gjon MiliLIFE Photo Collection
1940s - Dorian Leigh
As the fashion print industry really gained momentum in the 1940s, Leigh was one of the first models to appear on the front cover of Vogue magazine and feature in advertising campaigns, making her arguably the world's first supermodel.
Twiggy (1968) by Gosta PetersonMuseum of Fine Arts, Boston
1960s - Twiggy
Everything was changing in the 1960s, including what was expected from a fashion model. Twiggy redefined what a model was supposed to look like, creating an aesthetic that still looks cutting edge today.
Lauren Hutton in a Geoffrey Beene Ensemble, Vogue (1975-09-01) by Francesco ScavulloCondé Nast Archive
1970s - Lauren Hutton
Initially dismissed by agents because of the gap in her teeth, it came to be her calling card, with Hutton signing the biggest-ever modeling contract at the time with Revlon in 1973. Hutton continued to model into her 70s, such was her ongoing appeal.
LIFE Photo Collection
1980s - Cindy Crawford
Arguably the face of the 1980s, Crawford was known for her athletic physique and signature mole. She was a fixture on catwalks throughout the decade before branching out into other areas of business and entertainment.
Naomi Campbell in a Sequined Dress by Adrienne Vittadini, Vogue (1989-12-01) by Arthur ElgortCondé Nast Archive
1990s - Naomi Campbell
The Queen of the Runway in the 1990s, Naomi Campbell was part of a new wave of models, along with Kate Moss and Claudia Schiffer, that transcended modeling and became part of the zeitgeist. She appeared on countless covers and helped to create the image of the modern supermodel.
Bundchen, GiselleLIFE Photo Collection
2000s - Gisele Bundchen
Bringing back the athletic look to the catwalk, Brazilian Gisele Bundchen ushered in a new era of supermodels, pioneering her 'horsewalk' on the runway and becoming one of the highest paid women in the world. She's also well known for her philanthropy work around the world.
French Fashion Models (1950-06-06) by Gordon ParksLIFE Photo Collection
Want to know more?
The modeling superstars featured in this story helped to shape an entire industry and inspire millions. Find out more about how women have impacted and influenced culture all over the world here.
