The 1980s were an era for fashion full of shoulder pads, big hair, and larger-than-life supermodels. From gracing Vogue's pages to embodying the glamour of top designers, models like Christie Brinkley, Elle Macpherson, and Kelly LeBrock left their mark on the runway. But what happened to these iconic figures after their prime? Join us as we unravel the mysteries of their post-'80s lives and reveal where these once most-wanted models in the world are today.
Katoucha Niane
From a small village in Guinea to the runways of the fashion world, Katoucha Niane's journey was nothing short of extraordinary. With her captivating beauty and undeniable talent, she became the muse of designers like Yves Saint Laurent and Paco Rabanne. She was a successful model and even became an outspoken activist, a voice against female genital mutilation. However, tragedy struck when news broke of her sudden and mysterious death in 2008.
Tragically, Niane's body was found in the Seine River at only 47 years old. Many believe she may have accidentally fallen into the river, but no one knows for sure.
Carol Alt
This sensational supermodel rose to fame when she caught the attention of Elite Model Management's John Casablancas. In no time, she conquered the covers of top magazines and strutted her stuff for legendary designers like Calvin Klein and Ralph Lauren. With over 700 magazine covers, 45 movies, and her own line of products, she was an unstoppable force. But Carol wasn't satisfied with just being a pretty face and wanted more.
Today she's an entrepreneur with her own skincare line, has her own book, and was the host of A Healthy You & Carol Alt on FOX News Channel!
Paulina Porizkova
This stunning supermodel's career took off when fate intervened and she caught the eye of an Elite Model Management recruiter on the streets of Sweden. From that moment on, she was on the covers of esteemed magazines and became the face of top brands like Estée Lauder and Maybelline. She proved her acting chops on the small screen in the beloved CBS drama As the World Turns. And as if that's not enough, she has become a respected columnist for Modelinia and Huffington Post!
Only a year ago, Paulina released her highly anticipated book of powerful essays titled No Filter: The Good, the Bad, and the Beautiful. In this captivating read, she fearlessly opens up about the realities of aging and challenges the industry's obsession with youth.
Janice Dickinson
Janice Dickinson, love her or hate her, was a force to be reckoned with in the fashion world. She made her mark in the late 1970s and solidified her status as a trailblazer in the 1980s when she became one of Elite Model Management's original signings. Nowadays, she's better known for her appearances on reality TV, particularly as a judge on America's Next Top Model. Even after being fired from the show, Janice remains in the spotlight.
And let's not forget her shocking on-set accident during her time on I'm a Celebrity... South Africa. The 68-year-old supermodel may have faced ups and downs, but she's a true survivor in the industry.
Isabella Rossellini
Isabella Rossellini, the epitome of timeless beauty, has a star-studded lineage that couldn't keep her away from the spotlight. With Academy Award-winning parents and a striking resemblance to her mother, Ingrid Bergman, it was only a matter of time before Isabella made her mark in show business. While her stunning features caught the attention of Lancôme, who signed her for a remarkable 14-year contract, Isabella's talents extended far beyond the realm of modeling.
From films like Blue Velvet to her recent one-woman show Darwin's Smile, exploring animal emotions, she proves that age is just a number. Despite setbacks in her career, Isabella's resilience and passion have led her to pursue her dreams fearlessly.
Cindy Crawford
Cindy Crawford wasn't just a pretty face; she was the valedictorian of her college, proving that brains and beauty go hand in hand. After dropping out of chemical engineering at Northwestern University, she took the modeling world by storm. She dominated the industry and became a commercial powerhouse. Nowadays, she's approaching her sixties, and she's still modeling, unapologetically embracing her life experience, shutting down society's obsession with looking 25 forever.
Cindy is still busy as ever! She is an entrepreneur with a home collection, several books under her name and has even dabbled in acting!
Farida Khelfa
Farida Khelfa, the French-Algerian, was scouted in a Paris cafe at only 16 years old and quickly became one of the most highly regarded models of her time. She dominated the runway and even dabbled in acting and directing. She was also adamant about breaking boundaries and defying stereotypes for Middle Eastern women. Now in her 60s, this age-defying beauty is shaking up the industry by continuing to strut her stuff on the catwalk.
Farida still models to this day and, in 2023, was even the face of a campaign for Taller Marmo. Nothing can stop this model!
Jerry Hall
Jerry Hall was a blonde bombshell who ruled the fashion scene, appearing in countless magazines and strutting her stuff for Chanel. But that's not all—she also caught the eye of none other than rock legend Mick Jagger, leaving all the ladies at that time green with envy. Fast forward to today, and Jerry's love life has hit a rough patch with a devastating divorce from media mogul Rupert Murdoch only six years after being married.
From clashes over lifestyle choices to preferred locations, it's been a rollercoaster ride for this glamorous diva. Some people even rumored that he dumped her because of her cigarette habit.
Iman
Discovered by Peter Beard in 1975, this statuesque beauty took the fashion world by storm. With her campaigns, magazine features, and muse status for renowned designers like Calvin Klein, Iman reigned supreme. But her talents don't end there! In 1994, she launched IMAN Beauty, revolutionizing the industry for black women everywhere. Fast forward to today, Iman has decided to embrace the single life after losing her beloved husband, David Bowie.
Though she no longer models, she is very involved in the fashion world behind the scenes but prefers a quieter life embracing being a mother and grandmother.
Inès De La Fressange
Inès De La Fressange burst onto the scene in the late '70s, becoming the very first supermodel to secure an exclusive contract with Chanel in 1983. But fame comes with its fair share of drama, and Ines found herself entangled in a highly publicized feud with the legendary Karl Lagerfeld, the creative director of Chanel. With a career spanning over four decades, Inès De La Fressange shows no signs of slowing down.
Setting the standard for French girl style, Inès has become an integral part of French culture. It comes as no surprise that she has also lent her creative touch to a Uniqlo collaboration still pioneering the fashion world.
Kim Alexis
Supermodel Kim Alexis has had an incredible career that is worth talking about! She was discovered by Elite Model Management when she was just 18 years old and quickly made a name for herself in the fashion industry. While she gained fame for her work as a cover model and as the face of Revlon's Ultimate II line, she also took on new challenges, like participating in VH1's But Can They Sing? reality show.
Despite stepping away from the spotlight to focus on her family, Kim's passion for health and fitness never wavered, and now she's making a comeback.
Naomi Campbell
Supermodel sensation Naomi Campbell has been a trailblazer in the fashion world, smashing barriers and making history. She's the first Black supermodel to grace the covers of top-notch magazines like Time, France Vogue, and Russian Vogue, turning heads and redefining beauty standards. Even today, Campbell continues to dominate the Paris Fashion Week runways, strutting her stuff for brands like Valentino. But that's not all—she's also been busy with her own YouTube TV show, No Filter with Naomi, where she spills the tea in captivating interviews.
Only two years ago, at age 51, she became a proud mom to a little girl and, in 2022, launched an initiative to promote diversity among the next generation of creatives.
Brooke Shields
Brooke Shields was the ultimate child star turned supermodel extraordinaire! With jaw-dropping performances in flicks like Pretty Baby and Blue Lagoon, she set the world ablaze before even hitting her teens. From gracing the covers of fashion's finest to sparking controversy in those Calvin Klein denim ads, Shields reigned supreme with her fierce brows and flowing blonde locks. And guess what? Shields isn't slowing down! She's now dipping her toes into the world of entrepreneurship with her bold venture, Beginning Is Now.
It's a wellness brand focused on empowering women; Shields Shields is here to show that age is just a number. Plus, she's still in the acting game, starring in Netflix hits like A Castle for Christmas.
Anna Bayle
Anna Bayle, the esteemed model known as "Asia's first supermodel," made waves in the fashion industry. She captivated audiences by walking the runways for prestigious fashion houses like Valentino, Christian Lacroix, and Oscar de la Renta. Gracing the covers of Harper's BAZAAR and other renowned magazines further solidified her status as a fashion icon. Despite her initial pursuit of a premed education at the University of the Philippines, Bayle left an indelible mark on the modeling world. Today, she leverages her expertise as the beauty editor for lookonline.com.
Additionally, Bayle is set to host a television show called The Next Anna Bayle, a thrilling quest to discover the next Asian supermodel.
Christie Brinkley
Christie Brinkley never thought she'd trade her graphic design gig for the runway, but fate had other plans. She graced the covers of Sports Illustrated three times in a row, and since then, her rise to stardom has been unstoppable. Now she's approaching her seventies and may not be modeling as much but is facing other life experiences. She battled glaucoma, had eye surgery, and even underwent hip replacement surgery.
She's always been known for her blonde hair, but now she's starting to embrace her age and let her gray hairs come out!
Linda Evangelista
Linda Evangelista was a huge celebrity in the 80s, known as one of the top supermodels of the era. She was on the covers of countless magazines and walked the runways for famous fashion designers like Chanel, Giorgio Armani, and Versace. But now, she's facing a difficult time in her life. After undergoing a popular fat-freezing procedure called CoolSculpting, Linda claims it left her permanently disfigured and unable to work. She filed a lawsuit seeking $50 million in damages.
In an emotional interview, she reveals the physical and emotional pain she has endured, hiding away and feeling ashamed. She's desperately trying to get back to what it used to look like.
Denise Richards
Denise Richards rose to fame in the 1980s as a famous model and actress, and it was just the beginning of her rise to fame. Years later, Denise fearlessly embraced her post-baby body, gracing the pages of Playboy a mere five months after giving birth. Fast forward to the present, and Denise continues to shine as a versatile and multi-talented star. While taking a break from the spotlight, she re-emerged as a beloved figure in reality television, captivating viewers with her show, Denise Richards: It's Complicated.
She even joined the cast of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, but after it became too dramatic, she decided to quit the show.
Gia Carangi
The fashion world mourned the loss of Gia Carangi, a trailblazing beauty who captivated audiences with her fierce personality and groundbreaking style. Rising to fame in the late '70s and early '80s, Carangi defied conventions with her androgynous looks and unapologetic attitude. While her career may have been short-lived, her impact on the modeling industry was undeniable. When she passed away at only 26, apparently, no one from the fashion world would attend because she died of AIDS-related complications.
Carangi's striking features caught the attention of renowned designers such as Versace and Dior, and her collaborations with legendary photographers like Richard Avedon solidified her status as one of the industry's brightest stars.
Renée Simonsen
Supermodel Renée Simonsen has had quite the journey from the catwalk to her current career as a psychologist and writer! After winning the Face of the Eighties model competition, she quickly rose to fame in the fashion world, appearing in major campaigns and publications. But at the age of 24, she made a bold decision to leave modeling behind and pursue her education. Today, Renée is a well-respected journalist and an agony aunt for Femina magazine, offering valuable advice to Danish women.
She has also found success as a writer, with her children's book series becoming beloved classics. She's written over twenty books and, more recently, decided to tackle the topic of aging and vulnerability.
Elle Macpherson
This Australian bombshell didn't just conquer the modeling world to fund her law school dreams - she became an international sensation. Elle graced the covers of every major magazine, earning her the fitting nickname "The Body." But her success didn't stop there. From strutting the runways for top designers to starring in high-profile campaigns, she dominated the fashion industry. And let's not forget her iconic Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition appearances.
But what has this ageless beauty been up to lately? Well, she focuses mostly on being a mom and even serves as an unofficial ambassador for the Australian government's tourist commission.
Tyra Banks
Supermodel turned business mogul Tyra Banks has come a long way since her humble beginnings in the City of Angels. With a modeling career that kicked off in her teens, Banks defied the odds after being rejected by multiple agencies. But boy, did she prove them wrong! From her role as the host of America's Next Top Model to her own talk show and appearances in films like Life-Size, Banks has been a force to be reckoned with.
Now, at 49, she's ready to take on new challenges, transitioning from the dance floor to the stock market floor. While she focuses on her booming business empire and producing TV magic behind the scenes.
Helena Christensen
Helena Christensen continues to wow us with her age-defying beauty and fashion sense. From gracing over 600 magazine covers to being a Victoria's Secret Angel, she's genuinely a fashion force to be reckoned with. But it's not just her stunning looks that have us obsessed. Christensen's love for the great outdoors and her dedication to self-care keep her glowing from within. Whether taking a dip in cold water or enjoying the wind and sun on her face, Helena knows how to stay strong and healthy.
At 54, she's still turning heads and proving she has what it takes to slay the runway. And let's not forget her memorable moments, like strutting alongside other '90s supermodels at the Versace tribute show.
Kate Moss
Kate Moss, the ultimate fashion rebel, has been causing a stir in the industry since she was discovered at the age of 14. Dubbed the queen of "edgy chic," Moss took the fashion world by storm when she signed a mega-deal with Calvin Klein. Now, at 49, she's still a force to be reckoned with, not only as a model but also as a savvy businesswoman. She really knows how to steal the spotlight!
Moss has collaborated with major brands like Topshop and Longchamp, and she's even launched her own fragrances. Her gorgeous daughter, Lila Moss, is following in her fashionable footsteps, gracing the cover of British Vogue too!
Heidi Klum
Heidi Klum entered the fashion world after winning a modeling competition in her native Germany. The blonde bombshell made her way to the Big Apple and quickly rose to fame, gracing the cover of Sports Illustrated's Swimsuit edition and modeling for Victoria's Secret. But Klum didn't stop at modeling - she became the ultimate fashion guru as the longtime host of "Project Runway." This multi-talented star has even added an Emmy Award to her impressive resume.
And let's not forget about her love life! Klum has had her fair share of high-profile relationships and marriages, including her recent union with Tokio Hotel rocker Tom Kaulitz who is 16 years younger than her.
Tatjana Patitz
Supermodel Tatjana Patitz, known for her distinct beauty and intense presence, has sadly passed away at the age of 56. According to her family, the cause of her death was revealed to be metastatic breast cancer. Patitz rose to fame in the late 1980s and early '90s as one of the original supermodels, gracing the runways and magazine covers and even starring in the music video for George Michael's Freedom! '90.
One lesser-known fact about Tatjana Patitz is her love for nature and wildlife conservation. Beyond the glitz and glamour of the fashion world, she dedicated her time and efforts to a nonprofit for wild horses.
Kathy Ireland
From runway diva to business mogul, Kathy Ireland has undergone a sensational career makeover! Remember her famous Sports Illustrated covers in the '80s and '90s? Well, this bombshell babe is now making waves in the world of entrepreneurship. Her company, Kathy Ireland Worldwide, has raked in a jaw-dropping $2 billion in annual sales! Talk about a cash queen! She's proof that beauty and brains can go hand in hand! But that's not all—this savvy lady has also conquered.
The literary scene with self-help books and a steamy novel, Fashion Jungle, inspired by her glamorous modeling days. It seems now the 60-year-old isn't slowing down any time soon.
Stephanie Seymour
Stephanie Seymour, the ultimate fashion diva, ruled the modeling world as a Victoria's Secret Angel long before the rest. From Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition to Playboy, she set pulses racing with her sizzling shoots. But Stephanie's star power didn't stop there. In 2014, she became the face of Estée Lauder, oozing glamour and sophistication. And guess what? She's now the boss lady of her very own lingerie brand, Raven & Sparrow.
Though she once had a juicy romantic entanglement with rock god Axl Rose, she's settled down since with real estate tycoon Peter Brant.
Kelly LeBrock
Kelly LeBrock, the epitome of '80s allure and the ultimate fantasy girl, continues to captivate us with her timeless beauty. From gracing the covers of top magazines to landing a coveted contract with Christian Dior, her modeling career skyrocketed alongside her rise to silver-screen stardom. After a well-publicized divorce from Steven Seagal, LeBrock retreated from the Hollywood scene to find solace in a picturesque ranch and lay low from the fame.
At 62 years old, this model and actress exudes grace and holds an estimated net worth of $2 million, proving that true beauty and success never fade.
Christy Turlington
Supermodel sensation Christy Turlington has been a force to be reckoned with since her discovery at the tender age of 14. However, it was at 18 that she truly skyrocketed to fame, making her mark in the fashion world through collaborations with Maybelline and gracing the covers of renowned magazines like Vogue. Now at 54, Turlington has transitioned her focus from striking poses to behind-the-scenes endeavors and is having a blast doing so.
From her compelling acting debut in No Woman, No Cry to the launch of her empowering maternal advocacy foundation, Every Mother Counts, she continues to make a difference.
Kelly Emberg
Kelly Emberg, the stunning model from Houston, has undoubtedly blossomed in her career. From her days as a college cheerleader to gracing the glossy pages of Harper's BAZAAR, Emberg knows how to turn heads. She was with star Rod Stewart once, and the couple had a daughter! However, nowadays, she's very different and has a hobby you wouldn't expect. Kelly has a green thumb and a flair for interior design.
Her passion for gardening has led her to become "The Model Gardener," offering advice and tips on growing your own organic veggies. And if that's not enough, she even has her own radio show!
Yasmin Le Bon
In the glamorous era of the 1980s, Yasmin Le Bon reigned as one of the highest-paid models. Hailing from Britain, she posed on the covers of renowned magazines like Elle, Vogue, Marie Claire, and Cosmopolitan. Her career especially skyrocketed when she became the face of Guess? in 1987. Today, Yasmin continues to captivate with her timeless beauty and represents esteemed fashion houses such as Dior, Versace, Chanel, and Calvin Klein.
Despite her incredible success and a career spanning over four decades, Yasmin remains grounded, prioritizing family and cherishing her almost 40-year-long marriage.
Jill Goodacre
Jill Goodacre's modeling career soared to new heights when she became one of the esteemed ambassadors for Victoria's Secret. Her beauty and charm contributed to the brand's remarkable success. Jill's presence on Victoria's Secret runway and in their campaigns solidified her status as a supermodel. She made a mark in the modeling world and found love in the arms of musician Harry Connick Jr. Their relationship has spanned over three decades, proving that their bond is unbreakable!
Lately, Jill has admitted to facing her own challenges, including weight gain caused by medication. She really leans on her husband for support and to learn how to feel confident with an ever-changing body.
Cristina Cordula
Cristina Córdula, the Brazilian sensation, took the fashion world by storm long before Gisele Bündchen and Alessandra Ambrosio entered the scene. With her mesmerizing beauty and innate sense of style, Córdula quickly caught the attention of fashion's elite. The turning point in her career came when she took a daring leap and chopped off her luscious locks, instantly becoming a fashion icon. She was a powerhouse for Chanel, Christian Dior, and Yves Saint Laurent.
Today, she is not only a renowned TV presenter in France but also an author and personal shopper, captivating audiences with her fashion expertise and undeniable charisma.
Carla Bruni
In the dazzling world of fashion, Carla Bruni stole hearts as one of the most sought-after models in the '80s and '90s. Born in Italy and later settling in France, she became synonymous with elegance and grace on the runways of renowned designers like Saint Laurent, Chanel, Dior, and Versace. But Bruni's talents extended far beyond the catwalk. She embarked on a successful career as a singer-songwriter and still makes music to this day.
Her journey took an unexpected turn when she married Nicolas Sarkozy, the former President of France, in 2008, bringing her into the spotlight as the nation's stylish First Lady.
Claudia Schiffer
Claudia Schiffer catapulted to stardom in 1987 thanks to a persuasive manager who recognized her dazzling potential. The stunning beauty became the face of fashion giants Chanel and Guess, gracing countless magazine covers that have landed her a Guinness World Record for the most appearances by a model. While millennials might recall her iconic Love Actually cameo, nowadays, she's much more low-key and lives in the countryside of Oxfordshire with her filmmaker hubby Matthew Vaughn and their three kids.
But don't think she's retired just yet! Schiffer has recently unveiled her own sensational collection of "Claudia" clothing and accessories, proving she's still the queen of style.
Elaine Irwin
In the 80s, Elaine Irwin became a renowned supermodel after gracing the pages of Seventeen magazine in 1985. With her long blonde hair and captivating blue eyes, she embodied the classic American beauty. She made a name for herself as one of the original Victoria's Secret runway models and also walked for high-profile fashion brands like Chanel, Versace, and Ralph Lauren. Irwin appeared on over 50 magazine covers, including Cosmopolitan and Vogue, working with top photographers of the time.
Although she has since stepped away from the spotlight, Elaine Irwin remains an enduring symbol of elegance and beauty in the fashion world.