The ’80s was a big era for fashion, but it was even bigger for the supermodel. Many of the world’s most famous models started their careers in the 1980s. Let’s have a look at some of the most recognisable and beautiful ’80s faces:
• Cindy Crawford
Considered one of the most beautiful women in the world, Cindy was also top of her class when studying chemical engineering. Her modelling career took off in 1982 when she won Elite Model Management’s ‘Look of the Year’. We love Cindy and her trademark mole!
• Brooke Shields
After spending her (very) young years as a movie star in hits like Pretty Baby (1978) and Blue Lagoon (1980), Brooke Shields made serious waves by appearing in some of the best fashion magazines – and those sexy, but controversial, Calvin Klein ads.
• Christie Brinkley
Christie started work as an illustrator and was hesitant about leaving her job to go into modelling, but we are so glad that she did. Discovered in Paris, she became one of the most famous models ever, starring in campaigns for Chanel beauty and CoverGirl; and who can forget her amazing body gracing the cover of Sports Illustrated three times in a row?
• Iman
Discovered on the streets of Nairobi in 1975 while she was a political science major, Iman exploded onto the fashion scene. Not only did she cover major magazines, but she also became a muse for Thierry Mugler, Calvin Klein and Donna Karan.
• Elle Macpherson
Elle started modelling in order to pay for her studies at Sydney University. She moved to New York, planning to stay there for a year, but it was not long before she was covering magazines and appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated in 1986, 1987, 1988, 1994 and 2006. Her beautiful physique got her the nickname ‘The Body’.
• Carol Alt
Carol’s first job was as a waitress. After being ‘spotted’ and introduced to the agents at Elite Model Management, she was signed immediately and went on to become one of the most desirable models of the ’80s, working with Calvin Klein and Ralph Lauren.
• Paulina Porizkova
Spotted by a photographer, Czech-born Paulina’s career took off – she became a model for Estée Lauder, Maybelline and Escada and appeared on the cover of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue in 1984.