Discover the figures who have revolutionized the runway and the fashion industry globally. This ranking explores the influence of iconic models, from the original supermodels to new generations, including those leading the charge towards more sustainable fashion and the impact of artificial intelligence. We analyze their careers, their activism, and how they have left an indelible mark on global culture. Get to know the women who have defined and redefined beauty and style standards across decades.
Accumulated one of fashion's most powerful platforms
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Bella Hadid possesses a chameleon-like ability to adapt to diverse styles, from streetwear to haute couture, showcasing her exceptional versatility. Her strong runway presence and influence on global fashion trends make her a key figure in the industry.
Became one of the world's top supermodels
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Gigi Hadid has solidified her position in the fashion industry through her consistent presence in high fashion campaigns and her role as a spokesperson for global brands. Her influence extends beyond the runways, impacting street style and trends with her collaborations and her own clothing line.
Changed the fashion industry
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Naomi Campbell is a pioneering figure who broke significant barriers in the fashion industry, being the first black woman to appear on the covers of Time and Vogue France. Her impact extends to opening doors for generations of Black models, maintaining her influence in global fashion for nearly three decades.
Fast rising global star
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Adut Akech has redefined industry standards with her commanding presence on high-fashion runways and campaigns. Her journey, from refugee to global supermodel, inspires and demonstrates significant cultural influence within the fashion world.
Featured in editorials and on covers of major fashion magazines
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Kaia Gerber has demonstrated significant impact on global fashion through her consistent presence in high-profile campaigns for luxury brands and her recognition as Model of the Year at the British Fashion Awards. Her ability to capture social media attention with daring looks and her participation in various campaigns, including collaborations with Vuori and Versace, maintain her as an influential figure in the industry. Furthermore, her foray into acting has broadened her reach and cultural relevance.
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Successful breakout star of 2018
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Vittoria Ceretti has solidified her position in the global fashion industry through her impressive career, which includes over 400 fashion shows and numerous Vogue covers. Her ability to front campaigns for luxury brands like Chanel, Prada, and Givenchy demonstrates her influence and relevance in current trends. She is a key figure in fashion due to her versatility and her representation of 'quiet luxury'.
Promotes diversity within the industry
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Imaan Hammam has appeared on the cover of Vogue 27 times, including four times on the American edition, showcasing her prominence in the industry. Her presence on models.com's "Industry Icons" and "Top Sexiest Models" lists underscores her status as an influential and sought-after figure in global fashion.
Discovered by Pat McGrath
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Paloma Elsesser has redefined beauty standards in global fashion, becoming the first plus-size model to win Model of the Year at the Fashion Awards in 2023. Her presence on high-profile runways, such as the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show in 2024, and her activism for inclusivity and body positivity, establish her as a transformative force in the industry.
Redefines beauty standards
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Ashley Graham has redefined beauty standards in global fashion, being one of the first plus-size models to make a significant impact in high fashion. Her appearance on the Sports Illustrated cover in 2016 was a milestone that opened doors for greater inclusion and diversity in the industry, inspiring millions through her body positivity activism.
Swiftly climbed the ranks in the fashion world
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Lila Moss has demonstrated significant global fashion impact through her high-profile runway appearances and international Vogue covers. Her ability to maintain her own style and carve out her identity in the industry, while upholding her mother's legacy, positions her as an influential figure in the sector.
First Sudanese model to open a Prada show
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Anok Yai has made a significant global impact in fashion by becoming the first Black model to open a Prada show since 1997, breaking barriers and setting a new standard. Her presence on multiple Vogue covers, high-profile campaigns, and her recognition as Model of the Year in 2025 demonstrate her influence and relevance in the industry.
Solidified status as a global fashion force
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Mona Tougaard has demonstrated significant impact in global fashion since her 2019 debut, walking for major houses and starring in high-profile campaigns. Her inclusion in Models.com's 'New Supers' list in 2025 and her nomination for Model of the Year at the 2024 Fashion Awards underscore her relevance and consistent presence in the industry.
Made a notable impact on the fashion runway
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Penelope Ternes has demonstrated a dominant presence on the runways of major Fashion Weeks, walking for luxury brands such as Saint Laurent, Chanel, and Dior. Her versatility and ability to embody the vision of diverse fashion houses have established her as an influential figure in global fashion.
This ranking is compiled to highlight models who have left a significant mark on global fashion, considering their influence across various aspects of the industry. It is not based on a scientific formula, but rather on an editorial assessment of their impact and relevance.