The 1990s were a golden era for fashion, defined by a handful of women whose faces became synonymous with glamour, style, and international appeal. These “supermodels” were more than models—they were cultural icons, often appearing on magazine covers, in high-profile advertising campaigns, and even in films. Today, decades later, many of them have evolved their careers while leaving lasting legacies in the fashion and entertainment world. Here’s an in-depth look at 11 legendary models of the ’90s and what they are doing today.
1. Naomi Campbell
Career in the ’90s: Naomi Campbell emerged as one of the most prominent supermodels of the 1990s. She was the first Black woman to appear on the covers of Vogue and Time magazines, breaking significant racial barriers in the fashion industry. Known for her fierce runway presence and striking beauty, Campbell worked with top designers like Versace, Chanel, and Dolce & Gabbana. Her collaborations with photographers such as Peter Lindbergh and Herb Ritts produced some of the most iconic images of the decade.
Where she is now: Naomi Campbell continues to be a significant figure in the fashion world. She remains active in modeling, frequently appearing in high-profile campaigns and runway shows. Beyond modeling, Campbell is a philanthropist, supporting various causes related to racial equality and children’s rights. She also launched her own podcast, No Filter with Naomi, where she discusses various topics with industry insiders.
2. Cindy Crawford
Career in the ’90s: Cindy Crawford was one of the most recognizable faces of the 1990s. With her signature mole and all-American look, she became a staple in fashion campaigns and magazine covers. Crawford worked with major brands like Revlon and Pepsi, and her appearances in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue solidified her status as a supermodel. She also ventured into acting, with roles in films and television.
Where she is now: Cindy Crawford has transitioned into entrepreneurship, launching her skincare line, Meaningful Beauty. She remains involved in the fashion industry through various collaborations and continues to be a prominent figure in media. Crawford is also dedicated to her family, supporting her children Kaia and Presley Gerber, both of whom have pursued modeling careers.
3. Christy Turlington
Career in the ’90s: Christy Turlington was known for her elegance and poise. She graced the covers of Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and Elle, and worked with designers like Calvin Klein, Chanel, and Valentino. Turlington’s campaigns, especially for Calvin Klein’s „Eternity,“ became iconic. She also appeared in music videos, including George Michael’s „Freedom! ’90,“ alongside other top models.
Where she is now: Christy Turlington is a dedicated advocate for maternal health. She founded the nonprofit organization Every Mother Counts, aiming to reduce maternal mortality worldwide. Turlington continues to model selectively and is involved in various philanthropic endeavors. She also pursued higher education, earning a degree in comparative religion and Eastern philosophy from New York University.
4. Linda Evangelista
Career in the ’90s: Linda Evangelista was known for her versatility and striking features. She famously declared, „We don’t wake up for less than $10,000 a day,“ highlighting her status in the industry. Evangelista appeared on over 700 magazine covers and worked with top photographers like Steven Meisel. She was a muse for designers such as Karl Lagerfeld and Gianni Versace.
Where she is now: Linda Evangelista has faced personal challenges, including a cosmetic procedure that led to health complications. Despite this, she has made a return to modeling and continues to be a respected figure in the fashion industry. Evangelista remains an advocate for body positivity and self-acceptance.
5. Kate Moss
Career in the ’90s: Kate Moss revolutionized the modeling industry with her waif-like figure and grunge-inspired style. Discovered at 14, she quickly rose to fame, becoming the face of Calvin Klein’s „Obsession“ campaign. Moss’s collaborations with designers like Marc Jacobs and Prada cemented her status as a fashion icon. She also graced numerous magazine covers, including Vogue and W.
Where she is now: Kate Moss continues to be a prominent figure in fashion. She has launched her own wellness brand, Cosmoss, focusing on skincare and lifestyle products. Moss remains involved in modeling and collaborates with various designers. She is also known for her private lifestyle and selective public appearances.
6. Stephanie Seymour
Career in the ’90s: Stephanie Seymour was a leading figure in the fashion industry during the 1990s. She appeared in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue and was a prominent model for Victoria’s Secret. Seymour’s sultry looks and glamorous presence made her a favorite among photographers and designers. She also ventured into acting, appearing in films and television.
Where she is now: Stephanie Seymour continues to model and has appeared in various fashion campaigns. She is also involved in the art world, showcasing her photography. Seymour remains a respected figure in the fashion industry and continues to influence new generations of models.
7. Tatjana Patitz
Career in the ’90s: Tatjana Patitz was known for her classic beauty and European elegance. She appeared in campaigns for designers like Chanel and Valentino and graced the covers of Vogue and Elle. Patitz was part of the iconic „Freedom! ’90“ music video by George Michael, alongside other top models.
Where she is now: Tatjana Patitz passed away in January 2023. She left behind a legacy as one of the most influential models of her generation. Patitz’s work continues to inspire new generations, and her contributions to the fashion industry are remembered fondly.
8. Tyra Banks
Career in the ’90s: Tyra Banks broke barriers in the fashion industry as one of the first Black models to appear in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. She worked with top designers and appeared in numerous campaigns. Banks was known for her striking features and dynamic presence on the runway.
Where she is now: Tyra Banks transitioned into television, creating and hosting the reality show America’s Next Top Model. She has also hosted her own daytime talk show and appeared in films and television. Banks is a successful entrepreneur, launching her own cosmetics line and production company.
9. Alek Wek
Career in the ’90s: Alek Wek made history as one of the first Black supermodels to achieve international fame. Discovered while studying in London, she quickly rose to prominence, walking for designers like Jean Paul Gaultier and appearing in major campaigns. Wek’s distinctive look and strong presence challenged traditional beauty standards in fashion.
Where she is now: Alek Wek continues to model and is involved in various philanthropic efforts. She advocates for refugee rights and is an ambassador for organizations like Doctors Without Borders and UNICEF. Wek remains a powerful voice for diversity and inclusion in the fashion industry.
10. Claudia Schiffer
Career in the ’90s: Claudia Schiffer was one of the most successful supermodels of the 1990s. With her blonde hair and blue eyes, she became the face of numerous campaigns, including those for Chanel and Versace. Schiffer appeared on hundreds of magazine covers and was a favorite among photographers and designers.
Where she is now: Claudia Schiffer has transitioned into acting and fashion design. She has appeared in films and television and launched her own clothing line. Schiffer remains involved in the fashion industry and continues to be a respected figure in the field.
11. Helena Christensen
Career in the ’90s: Helena Christensen was known for her sultry looks and exotic appeal. She appeared in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue and worked with designers like Victoria’s Secret. Christensen’s striking features and presence made her a favorite among photographers and designers.
Where she is now: Helena Christensen is a successful photographer and creative director. She continues to model occasionally and is involved in various creative projects. Christensen remains a respected figure in the fashion industry and continues to influence new generations.
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