Then, now and forever fabulous!
by Kelly Campbell
Many of us believe the era of the true supermodel is over. From celebrity spots to nepotism, fashion has fallen victim to the “Kardashian effect”. But it wasn’t always this way; there was a time when the fashion industry itself produced true icons. The 1980s were a transformative era for the fashion industry, and at the forefront of this revolution were the supermodels. These iconic women not only defined beauty standards but also set the stage for the global fashion phenomenon we know today. Let’s take a closer look at the top five supermodels of the ’80s, how they got their start, and where they are now.
Cindy Crawford
Cindy Crawford, with her distinctive mole, became a household name in the late ’80s. She was discovered in her hometown of DeKalb, Illinois, when she was just 16. Her journey to stardom began when she moved to New York City to pursue a modeling career. Crawford’s classic American beauty and athleticism made her a standout. She graced countless magazine covers, including Vogue, and became the face of Pepsi in one of the most memorable commercials of the era. Today, Cindy Crawford is not only a fashion icon but also a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist. She’s the founder of Meaningful Beauty, a skincare line, and remains a symbol of timeless beauty and grace.
Naomi Campbell
Naomi Campbell, often referred to as the “Black Panther” of the fashion industry, made her debut at the age of 15. She was born in London and was discovered while window shopping in the city. Campbell’s exotic looks and unparalleled runway presence quickly made her one of the most sought-after models of the ’80s. She worked with renowned designers like Versace and Yves Saint Laurent and was a trailblazer for diversity in the industry. Today, Naomi Campbell is still an influential figure in fashion. She continues to walk the runway, mentor new talent, and advocate for diversity and inclusion in the modeling world.
Linda Evangelista
Linda Evangelista, known for her chameleon-like ability to transform herself, was discovered in Canada. Her striking looks and versatile style propelled her to the top of the industry. Evangelista famously declared that she and her fellow supermodels “don’t wake up for less than $10,000 a day,” a statement that solidified her status as an ’80s icon. In recent years, Linda Evangelista has taken a step back from the modeling world but remains an enduring symbol of fashion innovation and sophistication.
Christy Turlington
Christy Turlington’s journey to supermodel status began when she was discovered by a photographer in Miami while horseback riding. Her natural beauty and elegance made her a favorite of top designers like Calvin Klein, for whom she became the face of Eternity fragrance. Turlington’s dedication to her education also stood out in an industry known for its brevity. She earned a degree in Comparative Religion and Eastern Philosophy from NYU. Today, Christy Turlington is a maternal health advocate, author, and founder of the nonprofit organization Every Mother Counts, which focuses on improving maternal healthcare worldwide.
Claudia Schiffer
Claudia Schiffer, the statuesque German beauty, was discovered in a nightclub in Düsseldorf. Her blonde hair, blue eyes, and graceful presence made her a sensation in the ’80s. Schiffer worked with Karl Lagerfeld and became one of the faces of Chanel. Her image graced numerous magazine covers, making her a true fashion icon. Today, Claudia Schiffer is still involved in the industry, occasionally modeling and collaborating with top designers. She has also ventured into design and writing, solidifying her place as a multifaceted talent.
In retrospect, the ’80s supermodels not only defined an era but also transcended their time. They continue to inspire new generations of models, entrepreneurs, and activists. While some have stepped away from the spotlight to pursue other passions, their enduring influence on fashion and culture is undeniable. The top five supermodels of the 1980s – Cindy Crawford, Naomi Campbell, Linda Evangelista, Christy Turlington, and Claudia Schiffer – left an indelible mark on the world of fashion. Their diverse backgrounds, distinctive looks, and unique personalities propelled them to supermodel status. Today, they continue to inspire and shape the fashion industry and the world in various ways, proving that true icons are timeless.