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The 90's supermodels who redefined the concept of beauty© HOLA! USA / Getty Images

The 90’s supermodels who redefined the concept of beauty

From the allure of Naomi Campbell to the timeless elegance of Cindy Crawford, the models that captured hearts


Shirley Gomez
Senior Writer
JULY 31, 2023 6:27 PM EDT

The 1990s witnessed the rise of a group of iconic supermodels whose names and faces became synonymous with beauty, grace, and style. From the runways of Paris to the pages of high-fashion magazines, these legendary women redefined the concept of beauty and transformed the modeling industry itself.

From the allure of Naomi Campbell to the timeless elegance of Cindy Crawford, the ‘90s supermodels captured hearts and lenses alike with their striking looks and charismatic presence. Linda Evangelista’s famous declaration, “I don’t get out of bed for less than $10,000 a day,” epitomized the era’s unprecedented fame and success.

From Christy Turlington’s philanthropic endeavors to Claudia Schiffer’s unmistakable grace, each supermodel brought their unique flair and personality to the forefront.

Come with us on a journey back in time to honor the remarkable women who ruled the glamorous realm of 1990s fashion. These iconic supermodels have left a lasting impact and will always be remembered as pioneers.

What are they doing now?

Chloe Spring 1994 RTW© GettyImages

Naomi Campbell

Naomi Elaine Campbell, born on 22nd May 1970, is a renowned English model who stepped into the limelight at 15. Acknowledged as one of the six supermodels of her generation by the fashion industry and international press, she made groundbreaking strides as the first black woman to grace the covers of Time, Vogue France, and British Vogue.

Wales Bonner : Front Row - Paris Fashion Week - Menswear Spring/Summer 2024© GettyImages

Beyond her illustrious modeling career, Campbell has delved into diverse ventures, showcasing her multifaceted talent. She explored R&B with her studio album and showcased her acting skills in film and television, including her role as a mentor on the modeling-competition reality show, The Face and its international editions. Yet, beyond the glitz and glamour, Naomi remains deeply committed to philanthropy, devoting her efforts to charitable causes. Recently, she embarked on a new chapter in her life, embracing motherhood with the arrival of her two children.

Claudia Schiffer present own fashion collection© GettyImages

Claudia Schiffer

Claudia Maria Schiffer is a German model and actress who found her home in the United Kingdom. Born on August 25th, 1970, she skyrocketed to fame during the ‘90s, securing her place as one of the world’s most successful models, earning the prestigious supermodel title.

Early in her career, she was often likened to the timeless beauty of Brigitte Bardot. With an astonishing portfolio of over 1000 magazine covers, Claudia holds an unrivaled record as the model with the most appearances. This achievement has earned her a place in the Guinness Book of World Records.

"The King's Man" World Premiere - Arrivals© GettyImages

Her modeling prowess and business acumen have been rewarded generously, with Forbes estimating her net worth to be an impressive US$55 million in 2002.

Chloe Spring 1994 RTW© GettyImages

Christy Turlington

Christy Nicole Turlington Burns is an American model and humanitarian born on January 2, 1969. She is known for her timeless beauty and grace, showcased in Calvin Klein’s iconic Eternity campaign in 1989 and 2014.

Turlington has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to society, including being honored as one of Glamour’s Women of the Year in 2013 and listed among Time magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world in 2014.

5th Annual CARE Impact Awards© GettyImages

In addition to her modeling career, Turlington founded Every Mother Counts, a non-profit organization, in 2010. The organization is dedicated to ensuring safe pregnancy and childbirth for every mother, and it informs, engages, and mobilizes new audiences to support maternal health programs worldwide.

Through her philanthropy and dedication, Turlington has proven that true beauty radiates from the heart, and her impact reaches far beyond the catwalk. She continues to be the face of Maybelline to date.

Thierry Mugler - Runway - Ready to Wear Fall/Winter 1995-1996© GettyImages

Linda Evangelista

Linda Evangelista is a Canadian fashion model who was born on May 10, 1965. She is regarded as one of the most accomplished and influential figures in the industry, having appeared on over 700 magazine covers. Photographer Steven Meisel even called her his “muse.” Evangelista began her modeling career in 1984 after relocating from Canada to New York City and signing with Elite Model Management.

In 1988, she made a daring decision to cut her hair short, which was lovingly referred to as “The Linda,” after photographer Peter Lindbergh encouraged her to do so. This decision transformed her career and earned her the nickname “chameleon” among the five supermodels, as she captured global fame throughout the late 1980s and the entire 1990s. Despite her incredible success, she chose not to pursue other endeavors outside of modeling.

Fendi - Front Row - RTW Spring 2023© GettyImages

After retiring in 1998, Evangelista made a brief comeback three years later and continued sporadic appearances in the industry. In 2008, she was voted “The Greatest Supermodel of All Time” by viewers of the television show Fashion File, solidifying her legacy as an eternal icon of style and beauty.

Macy's & American Express Passport '99 "Extreme" Fashion Show Gala to Benefit HIV/AIDS Charities© GettyImages

Cindy Crawford

Cynthia Ann Crawford, better known as Cindy Crawford, is an American model, actress, and television personality who made an unforgettable impact during the 1980s and 1990s. She was born on February 20, 1966, and was known for her captivating beauty and magnetic charm. Cindy was one of the most sought-after supermodels of her time, featured on countless magazine covers, dominating runways, and being the face of numerous fashion campaigns. Her presence was ubiquitous, and she captured the hearts of fashion enthusiasts worldwide.

The 6th Annual Best Buddies' Celebration Of Mothers© GettyImages

Her passion for the entertainment industry led her to venture into acting, where her talent and versatility shone on the big screen. Her on-screen presence garnered critical acclaim and adoration from audiences, cementing her position as a multifaceted talent. Her ambitions knew no bounds, and she dived into the world of business ventures, becoming a savvy entrepreneur and solidifying her reputation as a model and a successful businesswoman.

Chloe Spring 1998 RTW© GettyImages

Kate Moss

Katherine Ann Moss, born on January 16, 1974, is a British model whose career marked a significant era in the fashion industry. Rising to prominence during the early 1990s, Moss became a defining figure in the “heroin chic” trend that captivated the fashion world. Her collaborations with Calvin Klein catapulted her to the status of a fashion icon, known for her waifish figure, and became synonymous with the size zero fashion movement.

Moss has not only excelled in modeling, but also explored several other creative pursuits, displaying her versatility. Her clothing range is a testament to her eye for style and design. Additionally, she has showcased her artistic side by engaging in musical projects, demonstrating her passion for creativity beyond the runway. British Vogue has recognized her multifaceted talents by appointing her as a contributing fashion editor, further solidifying her influence in the fashion industry.

2023 Costume Institute Benefit - Karl Lagerfeld: A Line Of Beauty© GettyImages

In 2012, Moss earned an astounding $9.2 million, securing her the second spot on Forbes’ top-earning models list. Her influential presence over 25 years was recognized by the British Fashion Awards in 2013, and Time magazine included her in their list of the world’s 100 most influential people in 2007.

Moss’s cultural impact has been immortalized extraordinarily. A remarkable 18-carat gold statue of her, worth $2.8 million, was sculpted in 2008. This masterpiece is displayed at the British Museum exhibition, symbolizing her status as an enduring muse and cultural icon.

GQ MAGAZINE PARTY IN NEW YORK© GettyImages

Tyra Banks

Tyra Lynne Banks is an American personality in the television, modeling, producing, writing, and acting industries. She began modeling at a young age and became the first African-American woman to grace the covers of GQ, and the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, making history three times. She was also a Victoria’s Secret Angel from 1997 to 2005, cementing her status as one of the highest-earning models in the early 2000s.

In addition to modeling, Banks has acted in a variety of roles, including her debut in the drama Higher Learning (1995) and memorable performances as Eve in Disney Channel’s Life-Size (2000) and Zoe in the famous movie Coyote Ugly (2000). She has also appeared in films such as Love & Basketball (2000) and Halloween: Resurrection (2002), as well as on TV shows like Gossip Girl (2009) and Glee (2013).

Celebrities Visit SiriusXM - September 28, 2022© GettyImages

Banks is the mastermind behind the long-running reality TV series America’s Next Top Model, which she also hosted for twenty-two seasons. Her innovative contributions to various industries have earned her recognition as one of Time magazine’s most influential people, making her one of only four African Americans and seven women to achieve this honor.