1. Gigi Hadid
Gigi Hadid, born April 23, 1995 in Los Angeles, really represents the modern supermodel at the intersection of fashion, celebrity and social media. Wikipedia+1
She began modelling very young (even as a child) and signed with IMG Models in 2013. Biography+1 Since then she’s walked major fashion weeks, landed countless campaigns, covers and been recognised as “International Model of the Year” by the British Fashion Council. Wikipedia
Her appeal combines high-fashion credentials (Versace, Chanel, Fendi) with a social-media savvy presence; she’s often a go-to for brands wanting both style credibility and global reach.
Why she stands out: A strong blend of runway credentials + global brand appeal + social influence.
Fun fact: Before modelling full-time she was a volleyball player and competitive horseback rider. Biography
2. Bella Hadid
Born October 9, 1996 in Washington, D.C., Bella Hadid has become a fixture of high-fashion and luxury campaigns. Encyclopedia Britannica+1
Her modelling career accelerated after 2014, signing with IMG, and she has walked for major houses such as Tom Ford, Chanel, Dior. Biography+1
In 2022 she was named “Model of the Year” by the British Fashion Council. Wikipedia
Why she stands out: Her distinctive look, strong brand associations, and broad global visibility.
Interesting angle: She has spoken publicly about her struggles (Lyme disease, mental health) which adds a layer of real-life narrative beyond the runway. Biography
3. Kendall Jenner
Kendall Nicole Jenner (born November 3, 1995) is both a model and media personality who has leveraged her family’s fame, but also carved out a major modelling career. Wikipedia+1
She began modelling early (signed with Wilhelmina at age 13) and has walked the runways of Chanel, Givenchy, Prada, etc. Wikipedia
Why she stands out: Cross-over appeal (fashion + entertainment), very high visibility, and a strong commercial presence.
Controversial/interesting note: Some critique that her rise is aided by celebrity status rather than purely modelling merit. For example:
“Kendall is a model of influence… she used her family’s fame and her statuesque height to fuel her career.” Le Monde.fr
Whether you view that as advantage or just part of the modern landscape, it’s part of her story.
4. Liu Wen
Liu Wen, born Jan 27, 1988 in Hunan, China, is widely regarded as China’s first supermodel. Wikipedia
She was the first Chinese model to walk the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, the first East Asian spokesmodel for Estée Lauder, and the first model of Asian descent to appear solo on the cover of French Vogue. Wikipedia
Why she stands out: She’s broken significant cultural and regional barriers in the modelling industry, representing Asian representation at the highest levels.
Impact: Shows how fashion is increasingly global, and how models can serve as bridges across markets.
5. Vittoria Ceretti
Vittoria Ceretti, born June 7, 1998 in Brescia, Italy, is a newer-generation model but already one of the standout names in the high-fashion world. Wikipedia
By 2024 she had walked over 400 shows and appeared on 24 international covers of Vogue editions. Wikipedia
Why she stands out: She possesses the “runway model” credentials in full — volume of shows, high-fashion houses, global presence — combined with the youthful energy and fresh face of a new generation.
Note: Her career is still rising, which makes her one of the best to watch.
6. Edita Vilkevičiūtė
Edita Vilkevičiūtė (born January 1, 1989 in Kaunas, Lithuania) has long been a respected figure in the modelling industry. Wikipedia
She’s appeared on 25 Vogue covers, and for years ranked as one of the highest-paid models globally. Wikipedia
Why she stands out: Consistency, longevity and finesse. She may not always grab tabloid headlines like some superstars, but her resume is strong, and she’s respected for her craft.
Tip for readers: If you’re interested in the “model’s model” style — high-fashion without the extra celebrity frills — she is a great reference.
7. Adriana Lima
Brazilian model Adriana Lima is one of the iconic names of recent decades in modelling. Although fewer recent headline picks list her among the “top-earning” models as the newer generation rises, her influence remains strong.
(See general lists of highest paid models where “Adriana Lima” appears among the top 10. Databoks+1 )
Why she stands out: Her long-term presence at the top of modelling, her “angel” status with Victoria’s Secret, high-profile campaigns, and cross-over into media make her a benchmark for success in the industry.
8. Cara Delevingne
Cara Delevingne (born August 12, 1992) is another model-turned-multi-faceted figure — beyond just the runway. She has walked major shows and also branched into acting and brand collaborations.
Her name appears in multiple “top models” lists, such as for 2025. trendstalky.com
Why she stands out: She epitomises the multi-talented model who can shift between high-fashion, editorial, activism, media presence. For anyone interested in models who cross over into cultural influence, she is a standout.
9. Gisele Bündchen
Gisele Bündchen (born July 20, 1980) may belong to an earlier era of the “supermodel”, but her legacy and ongoing influence make her an essential inclusion. According to earnings lists, she still ranks among top models. Databoks+1
Why she stands out: She helped define what a modern supermodel could be: runway legend, major campaigns, global brand, media presence, personal brand, philanthropic work. For anyone looking to understand the evolution of modelling in the last 20-30 years, she is a pivotal figure.
