Early Starters:
Rise to Fame:
Veteran Supermodels:
Keep in mind that the modeling industry has evolved over the years, and there are many more talented models who have started their careers at a young age.
The Evolution of Supermodels: A Look Back at the Industry's Most Iconic Faces from 7/17 Updated
The world of modeling has undergone significant changes over the years, with the term "supermodel" being coined in the 1980s to describe a select group of models who had achieved international fame and success. These women were not just faces, but household names, gracing the covers of top fashion magazines, walking the runways for the biggest designers, and becoming synonymous with style and beauty. In this article, we'll take a look back at some of the most iconic supermodels from the past, and explore how the industry has evolved since our last update on 7/17.
The Golden Age of Supermodels
The 1980s and 1990s are often referred to as the "Golden Age" of modeling. This was a time when supermodels like Cindy Crawford, Naomi Campbell, and Claudia Schiffer ruled the industry. These women were everywhere, appearing on magazine covers, television shows, and billboards. They were the epitome of style and sophistication, and their faces were recognizable to people all over the world.
The New Generation of Supermodels
As the industry evolved, a new generation of supermodels emerged. These women were just as talented and beautiful as their predecessors, but they brought a fresh perspective to the industry.
The Current Crop of Supermodels
Today, the modeling industry is more diverse and global than ever before. Supermodels come from all over the world, and they are just as likely to be Instagram influencers as they are to be traditional models.
The Evolution of the Industry
Since our last update on 7/17, the modeling industry has continued to evolve. There are now more opportunities than ever before for models to build their own brands and connect with their fans on social media. The industry has also become more diverse, with models from all over the world achieving international success.
Conclusion
The world of supermodels has come a long way since the 1980s, when the term was first coined. Today, the industry is more diverse, global, and connected than ever before. With the rise of social media, models are now able to build their own brands and connect with their fans in ways that were not possible before. As the industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see what the future holds for these iconic women, and for the modeling industry as a whole. Whether you're a longtime fan of supermodels or just discovering the world of modeling, one thing is certain: these women are here to stay, and they will continue to inspire and influence us for years to come.
Supermodels from 7/17 Updated
Here is a list of some of the top supermodels from our update on 7/17:
** Honorable Mentions:**
The fashion world has seen a massive shift from the legendary "Big Six" of the 90s to the tech-savvy "Instagirls" of 2017 and the diverse "New Supers" of today. While the definition of a supermodel has evolved to include social media influence and advocacy, the icons from the mid-2010s remain some of the highest-paid and most recognizable faces in the industry. The "New Guard" of Supermodels (2017–2026)
The models who dominated 2017 have largely maintained their status, often transitioning into entrepreneurship while continuing to lead major luxury campaigns. Kendall Jenner supermodels from 7 17 updated
: Ranked as the world's highest-paid model in 2017, Kendall has recently been described as being at her "career best," continuing to lead major runway shows like Prada. Gigi Hadid
: A powerhouse of the 2017 era (notably for Tommy Hilfiger), she remains a central figure in high fashion while expanding into business. Bella Hadid
: Often regarded as the definitive supermodel of this generation, Bella is recognized for using her platform for global advocacy while remaining a Prada and Versace mainstay. Adut Akech
: Representing the modern era of the "Super," Anok Yai notably became the second Black model to open a Prada show and continues to redefine industry standards in 2026. The Legacy Icons (Then & Now)
The original "7" or "Big Six" supermodels from the 80s and 90s still hold "forever gorgeous" status, with many remaining active in the industry as of early 2026. Cindy Crawford
: Still a symbol of elegance and success in 2026, Crawford has an estimated net worth of $400 million and continues to inspire with her wellness and business ventures. Naomi Campbell Christy Turlington
: Part of the "Trinity," these icons are still cited as the ultimate blueprint for the profession, frequently appearing in retrospectives and special runway appearances. Daphne Selfe
: Known as the world's oldest supermodel, her passing in March 2026 marked the end of a legendary career that spanned over 70 years. Emerging Stars to Watch (2026)
New talent continues to break through via traditional scouting and specialized competitions like Supermodel International. Emely Encarnación
: Crowned the Supermodel International 2025 winner from the Dominican Republic. Alex Consani Angelina Kendall : Cited by RUSSH Early Starters:
as part of the 13 models redefining the industry in 2025/2026. Breaking Talent: New faces like Loli Bahia and Alina Miller are currently leading the charge for major fashion houses.
Before the 70s, models were largely anonymous mannequins. The 70s changed everything. This was the era of the " liberated" woman, Halston, Studio 54, and the first time models became bigger than the magazines they appeared in.
The late 2010s were defined by a brutal culling. The old metric—"Why pay her $50,000 when Gigi can post a blurry selfie for free?"—ruled the boardrooms.
Yet, two seismic shifts occurred during this period that saved the profession.
First, the luxury backlash. By 2018, consumers grew fatigued by the cold algorithm. When Kim Kardashian shilled a detox tea, it felt transactional. But when Adut Akech closed the Valentino show weeping with joy, or when Kaia Gerber—legacy act that she is—walked with the ghost of her mother in every hip sway, the audience felt art. The industry realized that while influencers sell products, models sell dreams.
Second, the diversity mandate. The summer of 2020 forced a reckoning. Suddenly, the "heroin chic" revival was dead on arrival. In its place rose Paloma Elsesser, a plus-size muse for Fenty and Glossier, proving that curves could command couture. Jill Kortleve walked for Chanel and Schiaparelli, shattering the sample-size ceiling. And Aaron Phillip became the first Black male model to close a major luxury campaign in nearly a decade. The supermodel became a banner for representation, not just a hanger for clothes.
As the pandemic locked down the world, the fashion industry pivoted to digital. The "Zoom show" killed the physical runway, but it gave birth to the hyper-model. Three figures emerged from this crucible as the undisputed heirs to the throne:
1. Bella Hadid (The Transformer) In 2017, she was the "angry Hadid." By 2022, she was the standard. Through relentless coaching and an uncanny ability to melt into archival looks (from Mugler’s robot suit to Versace’s bondage dress), Bella proved that a model could be manufactured into a genius. Her 2023 "Pole Dance for Saint Laurent" campaign is now taught in fashion schools as the moment movement replaced the static pose.
2. Anok Yai (The Alien) Discovered at a Howard University homecoming, Anok possesses the kind of proportions that haven't been seen since Naomi Campbell. Between 2021 and 2024, she became the undisputed queen of the "glide"—that impossible, weightless walk that stops time. She is the last of the pure runway models, a walking sculpture for Prada.
3. Mona Tougaard (The Chameleon) The Danish-Somali model broke the mold by refusing to be singular. One day she is a 1960s waif for Bottega Veneta; the next, a cyberpunk warrior for Balenciaga. Her power lies in instability. In an era of branded personalities, Mona’s anonymity is her luxury asset. Milena Markovitch : Began modeling at 6 years
