The supermodels of the 1980s defined an era of luxury, glamour, and high fashion. Their faces adorned magazine covers, and their walks ruled the runways. But what happened to these iconic figures after their time in the spotlight? Many have pursued fascinating new careers, embraced activism, or continued redefining beauty standards. Here’s a look at how some of the most memorable ’80s supermodels have transformed their lives today.
Katoucha Niane
Katoucha Niane’s journey from a small town in Guinea to the top runways of Yves Saint Laurent and Paco Rabanne was nothing short of extraordinary. Her striking features set her apart in the industry, but beyond modeling, she became a passionate activist against female genital mutilation. Tragically, her life was cut short in 2008 when her body was discovered in the Seine River under unclear circumstances. Her legacy as a fearless advocate continues to inspire many.
Carol Alt
Discovered by Elite Model Management, Carol Alt quickly became a household name, gracing over 700 magazine covers and appearing in 45 films. But her ambition didn’t stop at modeling. She ventured into entrepreneurship, launching a successful skincare line and becoming a wellness advocate. As the host of A Healthy You & Carol Alt on FOX News, she shared insights on nutrition and health, proving that beauty goes far beyond appearances.
Paulina Porizkova
Paulina Porizkova’s rise to fame began when a modeling scout spotted her in Sweden. She soon became the face of major brands like Estée Lauder and Maybelline. Apart from modeling, she pursued acting and established herself as a writer, contributing to publications like Modelinia and The Huffington Post. Her book No Filter: The Good, the Bad, and the Beautiful offers an unfiltered look at aging and self-acceptance, resonating with women worldwide.
Janice Dickinson
A trailblazer in the industry, Janice Dickinson challenged traditional beauty standards with her bold personality and striking looks. While she’s widely known for her role as a judge on America’s Next Top Model, she has also faced personal challenges, including a serious on-set accident. At 68, she continues to inspire with her resilience, proving that strength and confidence define a true supermodel.
Isabella Rossellini
Born into Hollywood royalty, Isabella Rossellini’s career naturally gravitated toward the arts. While her timeless beauty made her the face of Lancôme for 14 years, she also embraced acting, starring in films like Blue Velvet. Today, she explores creative endeavors like her one-woman play Darwin’s Smile, blending science and storytelling. Her continued reinvention highlights her artistic depth and intellectual curiosity.
Cindy Crawford
Beyond being one of the most recognizable supermodels of all time, Cindy Crawford balanced beauty and intellect, initially pursuing chemical engineering before finding her true calling in modeling. Even in her 60s, she continues to model while running her home collection and writing books about her life and career. She’s a shining example of how one can embrace aging gracefully while staying relevant in the industry.
Farida Khelfa
Discovered in a Paris café, Farida Khelfa quickly rose to prominence with her striking looks and boundary-pushing presence. She expanded her career into acting and directing, becoming a role model for Middle Eastern women in fashion. Still active in the industry, she continues to challenge norms and inspire younger generations with her confidence and talent.
Jerry Hall
Jerry Hall’s captivating presence made her a muse for top designers and rock legends alike. While her high-profile relationships kept her in the public eye, she also faced personal setbacks, including a recent divorce from media mogul Rupert Murdoch. Despite this, she remains a resilient and iconic figure, navigating the worlds of fashion, love, and reinvention with grace.
