Modeling, as a profession, has been around for 169 years. It began when the legendary Charles Frederick Worth, known as the “father of haute couture,” asked his wife to model some clothes he had designed. Other fashion houses picked up on this and soon modeling became the norm. Over the years this has evolved greatly, as models don’t just stride down catwalks. They have also become part of pop culture, with models appearing on the covers of magazines, starring in films and TV shows, and trying their hand at all types of media. A lucrative career, some of the most famous models have made their mark over the past 30 years and become superstars.

The likes of Naomi Campbell, Kate Moss, and Gig Hadid have made a career from their face and body. But they aren’t the only models to crack the big time. Read on to find out the 16 most famous models the world has ever seen.

1. Claudia Schiffer

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One of the OG models, Claudia Schiffer made her presence felt during the 90s. The German beauty was everywhere and soon become known as a supermodel, one of those rare models who transcended the modeling world and became a star in their own right. Schiffer holds the record for the most magazine covers as listed by Guinness Book of World Records, with over 1,000 covers. She got her big break as the face of Guess and soon found herself on the cover of Elle, Vogue, Cosmopolitan, and Rolling Stone. She even posed for Playboy in 1997, causing quite the stir. 

Along with modeling, Schiffer has tried her hand at acting and launched her own fashion line of cashmere clothing. While she still models, these days Schiffer is more concerned with charity work and being a mum. 

2. Gigi Hadid 

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Gig Hadid first started modeling at the age of two for Baby Gap. This continued during her childhood until she took a break to finish her schooling. Once complete, Hadid became a full-time model and quickly took the world by storm. One of the world’s most in-demand models, Hadid has strutted her stuff on the catwalk for a host of big time designers. She has modeled for the likes of Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors, Jean Paul Gaultier, and Max Mara. Hadid has also hosted the American Music Awards and appeared in several music videos. Hadid is part of the new breed of models who are making their mark on the world.