15 Supermodels Who Defined the 90s

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The 1990s were a remarkable decade in the history of fashion, thanks to the iconic supermodels who not only walked the runways but also became cultural phenomena. These women were not just known for their striking features but also for their unparalleled charisma. Let’s revisit 15 iconic supermodels of the 90s and take a stroll down memory lane.

Cindy Crawford

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Cindy Crawford, with her mesmerizing beauty and signature mole, dominated the fashion scene of the 90s. Her stunning presence on runways and in countless magazine covers made her a familiar figure in countless households. Crawford’s collaboration with iconic brands like Pepsi and Revlon cemented her status as a global fashion icon.

Christy Turlington

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Gracing the fashion world with a career of sustained captivating presence, Christy Turlington rose to prominence as one of the original supermodels, walking the runways for top designers like Chanel and Versace. Her philanthropic efforts, particularly in maternal health, and iconic Calvin Klein and Maybelline campaigns solidified her status as a timeless muse and fashion icon.

Claudia Schiffer

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Claudia Schiffer’s talismanic figure and classic beauty made her a quintessential symbol of 90s glamor. She became a muse for legendary designers like Karl Lagerfeld and Gianni Versace, gracing the covers of prestigious fashion magazines worldwide. Schiffer’s magnetic presence extended beyond modeling as she ventured into acting and entrepreneurship with her cashmere collection.

Naomi Campbell

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As one of the first black supermodels to achieve global success, Naomi Campbell shattered barriers and paved the way for diversity and inclusion. Campbell’s collaborations with iconic photographers like Steven Meisel and Peter Lindbergh produced some of the era’s most memorable images. Furthermore, her philanthropic work and activism demonstrate her commitment to making a positive impact with her platform.

Tyra Banks

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Tyra Banks is known for being the first African American woman to have graced both the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue and GQ magazine covers. Her groundbreaking success took her into acting, hosting, and entrepreneurship. Her hit reality show, “America’s Next Top Model,” revolutionized the modeling industry and launched the careers of aspiring models worldwide.

Linda Evangelista

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Linda Evangelista famously declared, “We don’t wake up for less than $10,000 a day,” embodying the era’s supermodel extravagance. She modeled for photographers like Steven Meisel and Herb Ritts to produce some of the most iconic images of the 90s. Her influence on fashion and beauty continues to resonate, inspiring countless aspiring models and industry professionals.

Kate Moss

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A revolutionary in the fashion industry, Kate Moss maintained a rebellious spirit and immaculate aesthetics. Her waif-like beauty and edgy style captured the imagination of designers and photographers worldwide. Moss became synonymous with the 90s grunge chic, appearing on countless magazine covers and leading campaigns for iconic brands like Calvin Klein. 

Amber Valletta

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Amber Valletta’s striking features and magnetic presence made her a much sought-after muse by the whole industry. She enchanted audiences without fail by effortlessly embodying various personas, from ethereal beauty to edgy sophistication. Valletta’s iconic campaigns for brands like Versace and Calvin Klein solidified her status as a true supermodel of the 90s.  

Carla Bruni

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Carla’s collaborations with luxury brands like Chanel and Christian Dior showcased her impeccable style and sophistication. Before her foray into politics, Bruni’s modeling career made her a global fashion icon, gracing the covers of Vogue and walking the runways for top designers. 

Heidi Klum

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As a Victoria’s Secret Angel, Heidi Klum enthralled audiences with her runway presence and charismatic personality. Klum’s successful transition from modeling to television hosting, particularly on “Project Runway,” showcased her versatility and business acumen.

Yasmeen Ghauri

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Yasmeen Ghauri’s exotic beauty and striking presence captivated audiences and designers alike. As a Canadian-born model of Pakistani and German descent, she collaborated with top designers like Gianni Versace and Jean Paul Gaultier, earning her a striking presence in the industry. 

Helena Christensen

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Featuring photographers like Peter Lindbergh and Herb Ritts, Christensen’s versatility and timeless beauty earned her widespread acclaim and adoration, solidifying her status as a true supermodel. Her influence on fashion and beauty continues to serve and inspire the models to date.

Shalom Harlow

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A unique blend of elegance and edge previously unseen, Shalom Harlow had a magnetic appearance among designers and photographers. She had her sway on the audience equally on the runway and in print. Harlow’s iconic campaigns for brands like Chanel and Versace showcased her ability to transition seamlessly between high fashion and commercial appeal.

Karen Mulder

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Karen’s expedient rise as one of the original supermodels shone brightly on the covers of prestigious fashion magazines worldwide. Mulder’s iconic campaigns for brands like Calvin Klein and Victoria’s Secret consolidated her status as a true fashion icon of the 90s. 

Elle Macpherson

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Elle Macpherson, known as “The Body,” showered her audiences with a benevolent charm as she graced the carpet. Her iconic sports-illustrated covers and lingerie campaigns made her a global sensation in the 90s. Macpherson’s entrepreneurial ventures, including her own lingerie line, had an empowering effect on businesswomen back in the day. 

Written by Devin J