Career Highlights: Kendall Jenner first gained widespread recognition through the reality TV show Keeping Up with the Kardashians, but her modeling career quickly took off. She has walked in numerous fashion shows, including the prestigious Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. Jenner has also been a prominent figure in campaigns for major brands like Givenchy and Adidas.
Impact on Fashion: Known for her striking runway presence and versatile look, Jenner has become a symbol of modern beauty. Her influence extends to social media, where she has a massive following, and she frequently collaborates with designers and brands to set new trends.
Notable Achievements: In addition to being one of the highest-paid models, Jenner has been named to Time magazine’s list of the 100 most influential people in the world. Her impact is also seen in her entrepreneurial ventures, including her co-founding of the beauty brand, Kendall + Kylie.
2. Gigi Hadid
Career Highlights: Gigi Hadid’s modeling career began with her signing to IMG Models. She has since become a fixture in the fashion industry, walking for top designers such as Michael Kors and Marc Jacobs. Hadid has also ventured into acting, appearing in music videos and TV shows.
Impact on Fashion: Gigi is known for her ability to transition between high fashion and commercial modeling seamlessly. Her collaborations with major brands like Maybelline and her own fashion line, Gigi x Maybelline, highlight her versatility and influence.
Notable Achievements: Hadid has been awarded Model of the Year at the British Fashion Awards and has received numerous accolades for her contributions to the fashion industry. She is also recognized for her role in promoting body positivity and inclusivity in fashion.
3. Bella Hadid
Career Highlights: Bella Hadid’s career took off with her signing to IMG Models, and she quickly became a sought-after face in fashion. Her work includes high-profile campaigns for brands like Bulgari, H&M, and Dior Beauty. Bella’s unique look has made her a favorite for avant-garde and contemporary fashion shoots.
Impact on Fashion: Bella’s influence is marked by her willingness to push fashion boundaries. Her edgy and often experimental style has made her a muse for many designers. Her presence in fashion week shows and high-profile magazine covers reflects her significant impact on modern fashion.
Notable Achievements: Bella has been named Model of the Year by Models.com and has been featured on the covers of major fashion publications like Vogue and W Magazine. Her influence is also evident in her strong social media presence, where she frequently showcases her fashion choices and collaborations.
4. Adut Akech
Career Highlights: Adut Akech’s rise to fame has been meteoric. Discovered in Australia, she has quickly become a global sensation, walking for top designers and appearing in major fashion campaigns. Her runway appearances include shows for fashion houses like Valentino, Chanel, and Versace.
Impact on Fashion: Akech is celebrated for her role in promoting diversity and inclusivity within the fashion industry. Her success as a Black model in a predominantly White industry represents a significant step toward broader representation in fashion.
Notable Achievements: Akech has won several awards, including Model of the Year at the British Fashion Awards. She is also known for her humanitarian work and advocacy for refugees, reflecting her commitment to social issues beyond the runway.
5. Naomi Campbell
Career Highlights: Naomi Campbell’s career is one of the longest and most influential in fashion history. She has worked with every major designer and has been a fixture on the cover of countless fashion magazines. Campbell’s career highlights include being one of the first Black supermodels and her groundbreaking work with designers such as Gianni Versace and Karl Lagerfeld.
Impact on Fashion: Campbell’s legacy in the fashion industry is unparalleled. She has set standards for beauty and has been a trailblazer for models of color. Her work has also included activism, with a focus on issues such as racial diversity and humanitarian causes.
Notable Achievements: Campbell has received numerous honors, including the Fashion Icon Award and the prestigious CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) for her contributions to fashion and charity. She remains a prominent figure in the industry, influencing trends and advocating for change.
