The Most Famous Fashion Models of the 1950s

Dovima, born as Dorothy Virginia Margaret Juba, was a highly successful American model during the 1950s. She began her modeling career in the late 1940s but gained widespread recognition during the 1950s as one of the most popular and sought-after models of the time.

Dovima's striking looks and impeccable sense of style made her a favorite of many notable photographers, including Richard Avedon and Irving Penn. She is perhaps best known for her iconic images in a Christian Dior dress with elephants taken by Avedon at the Cirque d'Hiver in Paris, which became one of the most celebrated fashion photographs of all time.

Dovima's modeling career continued into the 1960s, but she eventually retired from the industry to focus on raising her children. Despite her relatively short time in the spotlight, her impact on the fashion industry was significant, and her images continue to inspire and influence models and photographers today.

Suzy Parker was an American model and actress who rose to fame during the 1950s. She was one of the first models to achieve celebrity status, appearing on the cover of Time magazine in 1957 and even signing a contract with Revlon as the first "face" of the brand.
Parker's stunning looks and natural elegance made her a favorite of many prominent fashion photographers, including Richard Avedon, Irving Penn, and Milton Greene. She worked with some of the biggest names in fashion at the time, such as Coco Chanel and Christian Dior, and was known for her ability to bring life and personality to the clothing she wore.

Parker's success in modeling led to a career in Hollywood, where she starred in several films, including "Funny Face" with Fred Astaire and Audrey Hepburn. Despite her success in acting, Parker is best remembered for her contributions to the fashion industry and the influence she had on the modeling profession during the 1950s.

Jean Patchett was an American model who became one of the most recognizable faces of the 1950s. She was known for her distinctive look, which included high cheekbones, a short hairstyle, and a strikingly symmetrical face.

Patchett worked with many of the top photographers of the time, including Richard Avedon, Irving Penn, and Norman Parkinson. She appeared on the covers of numerous magazines, such as Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, and Life, and became a favorite of designer Hubert de Givenchy, who considered her his muse.

Patchett was also a trailblazer in the modeling industry, negotiating higher fees for models and insisting on more rights and protections for their work. Her influence on the industry was significant and helped pave the way for future models to demand better treatment.
Although she retired from modeling in the 1960s, Jean Patchett's impact on fashion and modeling during the 1950s continues to be felt today, and her timeless beauty continues to inspire photographers and models alike.

Sunny Harnett was an American model who became a popular fashion icon during the 1950s. She was known for her classic good looks and natural elegance, which made her a favorite of many prominent fashion photographers.

Harnett worked with some of the most respected photographers of the time, including Richard Avedon and Irving Penn. Her images graced the pages of top fashion magazines, such as Harper's Bazaar and Vogue, and she became known for her ability to bring a sense of sophistication and refinement to the clothing she wore.

Harnett also had a successful career as a television presenter and game show host. She used her fame and influence to advocate for various causes, such as breast cancer research and the rights of working women. Although her career in modeling was relatively short-lived, Sunny Harnett's impact on the industry during the 1950s was significant, and her timeless beauty and charm continue to inspire models and photographers to this day.

Carmen Dell'Orefice is an American model who began her career in the 1940s but rose to fame during the 1950s. She was known for her striking features, including her high cheekbones and dramatic eyebrows, as well as her ability to exude a sense of sophistication and glamour.

Despite facing many challenges throughout her career, including personal struggles and changes in the modeling industry, Dell'Orefice persevered and continued to work as a model into her 80s. She worked with many top photographers, including Richard Avedon and Irving Penn, and appeared on the covers of numerous magazines, such as Vogue and Harper's Bazaar. Dell'Orefice also dabbled in acting, appearing in films such as "The Curse of the Jade Scorpion" and "The Tempest."

Today, Dell'Orefice is considered a living legend in the modeling industry and an inspiration to many. Her enduring career and commitment to staying true to herself have made her an icon of grace, beauty, and resilience.

Lisa Fonssagrives was a Swedish model who became one of the most successful and influential models of the 1950s. She was known for her tall, slender frame and elegant, regal demeanor, which made her a favorite of many top fashion designers and photographers.

Fonssagrives worked with many of the most prominent photographers of the time, including Irving Penn, Richard Avedon, and Horst P. Horst. She appeared on the covers of numerous magazines, such as Vogue and Harper's Bazaar, and was a muse to some of the biggest names in fashion, including Christian Dior and Coco Chanel.

Fonssagrives was also a skilled dancer and worked as a costume designer and artist. She retired from modeling in the 1960s to focus on her art, but her influence on the industry during the 1950s continued to be felt for many years.

Dorian Leigh was an American model who became one of the most popular and successful models of the 1950s. She was known for her stunning beauty, sharp features, and bright blue eyes, which made her a favorite of many top photographers and designers.
Leigh worked with some of the biggest names in the fashion industry at the time, including Christian Dior, Hubert de Givenchy, and Coco Chanel. She was featured in numerous magazine spreads and advertisements, appearing on the covers of Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, and other top publications.

In addition to her work as a model, Leigh was also known for her entrepreneurial spirit. She co-founded the Ford Modeling Agency with her brother, and she was instrumental in shaping the modeling industry into what it is today.

Leigh retired from modeling in the 1960s, but her impact on the industry during the 1950s continued to be felt for many years. Her timeless beauty and classic style continue to inspire models and fashion enthusiasts to this day.

Jean Shrimpton, also known as "The Shrimp", was an English model who rose to fame during the 1950s and 1960s. She was known for her fresh-faced beauty, slim figure, and long, blonde hair, which became iconic of the Swinging Sixties era.

Shrimpton worked with many of the top photographers of the time, including David Bailey and Richard Avedon, and appeared on the covers of numerous magazines, such as Vogue and Harper's Bazaar. She was also known for her unconventional and daring fashion choices, which helped to redefine the traditional image of a model.

Shrimpton was also an actress, appearing in several films and television shows. She was also an early advocate for women's rights and used her platform to speak out on issues such as equal pay and the objectification of women.

Today, Jean Shrimpton is considered one of the most iconic models of all time and a symbol of the cultural and fashion revolution that took place during the 1960s. Her influence on the industry and society continues to be felt to this day.

Anne St. Marie was an American model who rose to fame in the 1950s and 1960s. She was known for her ethereal beauty, delicate features, and captivating presence on the runway and in front of the camera.

St. Marie worked with many of the top fashion designers of the time, including Christian Dior and Yves Saint Laurent, and appeared in numerous fashion spreads and advertisements for magazines such as Vogue and Harper's Bazaar. She was also known for her elegance and grace on the runway, setting the standard for models of her time.
St. Marie was also an actress, appearing in several films and television shows. She retired from modeling in the 1960s to focus on her acting career, but her impact on the industry during the 1950s and 1960s continued to be felt for many years.

Veruschka, whose real name is Vera Gottliebe Anna Gräfin von Lehndorff-Steinort, is a German model and actress who rose to fame in the late 1950s. She was known for her stunning and statuesque beauty, as well as her striking and unconventional poses.
Veruschka worked with many of the top photographers and designers of the time, including Richard Avedon and Irving Penn. She was a muse to many, and her image appeared on magazine covers and in advertisements around the world.
In addition to her work as a model, Veruschka was also an actress, appearing in several films and television shows. She was known for her unique and enigmatic presence on screen, as well as her unconventional beauty and style.

Evelyn Tripp was an American model who rose to fame during the 1950s. She was known for her classic and elegant look, which helped to define the fashion trends of the time.
Tripp worked with many of the top fashion photographers and designers of the era, including Richard Avedon and Christian Dior. She was also known for her distinctive style, which included elegant and feminine clothing that emphasized her natural grace and beauty.

Tripp was also an actress and singer, appearing in several films and television shows and recording several albums. She was known for her charm and sophistication both on and off the screen.

Jeanne Carmen was an American model, actress, and pin-up girl who rose to fame during the 1950s. She was known for her voluptuous figure, blonde hair, and sultry looks, which helped to define the pin-up style of the era.

Carmen worked with many of the top photographers and magazines of the time, including Playboy and Esquire. She was also known for her love of cars and became a popular figure in the hot rod and car culture scenes of the 1950s.

Carmen was also an actress, appearing in several films and television shows. She was known for her charm, wit, and sex appeal on screen, and her performances helped to cement her status as a cultural icon of the 1950s.

Today, Jeanne Carmen is remembered as one of the most iconic pin-up girls of the 1950s, known for her classic beauty, sultry style, and influence on popular culture of the era. Her legacy continues to be felt in the fashion industry and beyond.

Barbara Mullen was an American model who rose to fame during the 1950s. She was known for her classic and refined look, which helped to define the fashion trends of the time.

Mullen worked with many of the top fashion photographers and designers of the era, including Richard Avedon and Christian Dior. She was also known for her distinctive style, which included elegant and understated clothing that emphasized her natural beauty and sophistication.

Mullen was also an actress, appearing in several films and television shows. She was known for her poise and charm on screen, and her performances helped to further cement her status as a cultural icon of the 1950s.

Sandra Giles was an American model and actress who rose to fame during the 1950s. She was known for her striking beauty and sultry looks, which helped to define the pin-up style of the era.

Giles worked with many of the top photographers and magazines of the time, including Playboy and Esquire. She was also known for her work as a "cheesecake" model, appearing in suggestive poses and outfits that were popular at the time.

Giles was also an actress, appearing in several films and television shows. She was known for her seductive and alluring performances, and her on-screen presence helped to further cement her status as a sex symbol of the 1950s.

Gia Scala was an Italian-born actress and model who gained popularity in the 1950s. She was known for her striking beauty, glamorous style, and sophisticated looks.

Scala began her career as a model, appearing in several advertisements and magazines. She later transitioned to acting, appearing in films and television shows, and quickly became a rising star in Hollywood. Her most famous role was in the 1957 film "The Guns of Navarone," in which she played the character of Maria.

Scala was known for her poise and elegance on screen, and her performances helped to further cement her status as a cultural icon of the 1950s. She was also known for her humanitarian work, and was actively involved in various charitable organizations.

Unfortunately, Scala's promising career was cut short when she died suddenly in 1972 at the age of 38. Despite her untimely death, her legacy as a talented actress and model continues to be celebrated to this day.

Peggie Castle was an American actress and model who rose to fame in the 1950s. She began her career as a model, working with various fashion photographers and appearing in advertisements and magazines.

Castle later transitioned to acting, and appeared in numerous films and television shows throughout the 1950s. She was known for her versatility as an actress, and was able to portray a wide range of characters, from dramatic roles to comedic ones.

Castle's most famous film role was in the 1955 western "The Conqueror," in which she played the character of Princess Tana. She also appeared in a number of popular television shows, including "The Whistler" and "Zane Grey Theater."

Beryl Grey is an English ballerina and choreographer who had a successful modeling career in the 1950s. She was known for her stunning beauty, grace, and elegance both on and off stage.

Grey began her career as a ballet dancer at a young age and quickly rose to fame as a principal dancer in the Sadler's Wells Ballet (now the Royal Ballet). During the 1950s, she also worked as a model for various fashion photographers, appearing in magazines and advertisements.

Despite her success as a model, Grey remained dedicated to her career in ballet and continued to perform and choreograph for many years. She was known for her innovative choreography and her ability to blend classical and contemporary styles.

Sunny Harnett was a notable American model, actress, and casting director during the 1950s. She was known for her stunning beauty and was often featured in fashion magazines, including Vogue. She was a favorite model of fashion photographer Edgar de Evia and was frequently featured on his photographs.

Aside from her modeling career, Harnett also appeared in several films during the 1950s, including "A Life of Her Own" (1950), "Captain Pirate" (1952), and "The Glass Wall" (1953). She later transitioned to casting and worked on numerous film and television projects, including "The Big Valley," "The Streets of San Francisco," and "The A-Team."

Eve Meyer was an American model, actress, and film producer who rose to fame during the 1950s. She began her career as a pin-up model and was one of the most
photographed women of the era, appearing in numerous magazines and advertisements.
Meyer later transitioned to acting and appeared in several films, including "Running Wild" (1955) and "The Naked and the Dead" (1958). She also worked as a producer and co-owned the film production company, Eve Meyer Productions.

Meyer was known for her stunning beauty and voluptuous figure, which made her a popular model and actress during the 1950s. She was often photographed by famous photographers of the era, including Russ Meyer, who she later married.

Jinx Falkenburg was an American model, actress, and television personality who rose to prominence during the 1940s and 1950s. She was one of the most famous models of her time, and her stunning looks and charming personality made her a popular figure in the fashion industry.

Falkenburg began her career as a model in the 1930s and quickly became one of the most sought-after models of her time. She appeared on the covers of numerous magazines, including Life, Look, and Collier's.

In the 1950s, Falkenburg transitioned to acting and appeared in several films, including "The Big Clock" (1948), "We're Not Married!" (1952), and "The Last Time I Saw Paris" (1954). She also hosted her own television show, "The Jinx Falkenburg Show," which aired from 1951 to 1953.

Falkenburg was known for her athletic ability and was an accomplished tennis player and golfer. She was also a philanthropist and was actively involved in various charitable organizations throughout her life.

Betsy von Furstenberg was an American actress and model who gained popularity during the 1950s. She began her career as a model in the late 1940s and appeared in numerous fashion magazines such as Harper's Bazaar and Vogue.

Von Furstenberg's acting career took off in the early 1950s, and she appeared in several films, including "Invaders from Mars" (1953), "The Big Chase" (1954), and "The Blue Gardenia" (1953). She also appeared in several television shows, including "The Philco Television Playhouse" and "The United States Steel Hour."
von Furstenberg was also a writer and playwright. She wrote several plays, including "Slightly Scandalous" and "The Lonelyhearts."

Von Furstenberg was known for her classic beauty and sophisticated style. She was often seen wearing elegant and timeless clothing, which made her a fashion icon of the 1950s. Her legacy continues to inspire fashion enthusiasts and aspiring actresses today.

Mara Corday was an American model and actress who gained popularity during the 1950s. She began her career as a model and was discovered by Warner Bros. studios in the early 1950s. She signed a contract with the studio and appeared in several films during the decade.

Corday appeared in numerous Western films during the 1950s, including "Son of Geronimo: Apache Avenger" (1952), "The Black Scorpion" (1957), and "The Giant Claw" (1957). She also appeared in several films in other genres, including "Tarantula" (1955) and "Girls on the Loose" (1958).

Corday was known for her beauty and sex appeal, and she was often cast in roles that highlighted her physical attributes. She was a popular pin-up model during the 1950s, and her image was featured in many men's magazines of the time.

Tippi Hedren is an American actress and model who rose to fame during the 1950s. She began her career as a fashion model in New York City and appeared in numerous ads and fashion magazines.

Hedren's acting career took off in the early 1960s when she was discovered by filmmaker Alfred Hitchcock. He cast her in the lead role of his 1963 film "The Birds," which became a huge commercial success. She went on to star in another Hitchcock film, "Marnie" (1964), and several other films during the 1960s and 1970s.

Hedren's striking looks and elegant style made her a fashion icon of the 1950s and 1960s. She was known for her classic beauty and sophisticated style, and her image graced the pages of many fashion magazines.

Hedren is also known for her activism. She has worked tirelessly to advocate for animal rights and has established the Shambala Preserve, a wildlife sanctuary for big cats.

Betty Brosmer is an American model who became famous in the 1950s. She was one of the highest-paid models of her time and graced the covers of numerous magazines, including Playboy, Life, and Modern Man.

Brosmer was known for her hourglass figure, which was considered the ideal female body shape during the 1950s. She had a waistline of only 18 inches, which was achieved through a combination of diet, exercise, and the use of a corset.

In addition to her modeling career, Brosmer was also an author, fitness expert, and entrepreneur. She wrote several books on fitness and health and founded her own fitness and nutrition company, Shape-Up, Inc.

Joyce Holden was an American actress and model who rose to fame during the 1950s. She appeared in several films and television shows during her career, including "The Big Night" (1951), "Carnival Story" (1954), and "The Silent Service" (1957).
Holden's striking beauty and elegant style also made her a successful model in the 1950s. She appeared in numerous fashion magazines and advertisements, and her image graced the pages of many popular publications.

Holden was also known for her philanthropic work. She was involved with several charities and organizations and used her fame to raise awareness and funds for various causes.

Arlene Dahl is an American actress and former model who was prominent in the 1950s. She appeared in numerous films during her career, including "Three Little Words" (1950), "Slightly Scarlet" (1956), and "Journey to the Center of the Earth" (1959).
Dahl was also a successful model in the 1950s, appearing in magazines and advertisements for various brands. Her striking beauty and impeccable style made her a sought-after model, and she became known for her signature red hair and bright smile.
Dahl was also an author and businesswoman. She wrote several books on beauty and fashion, and she founded her own line of beauty products, Arlene Dahl Enterprises. Her legacy continues to inspire people today. She was a talented actress and model who helped shape the fashion and beauty standards of the 1950s.

Elaine Stewart was an American actress and model who rose to prominence during the 1950s. She appeared in numerous films during her career, including "Brigadoon" (1954), "The Bad and the Beautiful" (1952), and "The Adventures of Hajji Baba" (1954).
Stewart's striking beauty and elegant style also made her a successful model in the 1950s. She appeared in numerous fashion magazines and advertisements, and her image graced the pages of many popular publications.

Stewart was also involved in several philanthropic organizations. She was a prominent supporter of the March of Dimes and the Arthritis Foundation, and she used her fame to raise awareness and funds for various causes.

Barbara Nichols was an American actress and model who gained fame during the 1950s. She appeared in numerous films during her career, including "The Naked and the Dead" (1958), "Sweet Smell of Success" (1957), and "Pal Joey" (1957).

Nichols' striking beauty and charisma also made her a popular model in the 1950s. She appeared in various advertisements and magazine spreads, and her image became synonymous with the glamorous lifestyle of the era.

Nichols was also a dedicated philanthropist. She was a vocal advocate for animal rights and supported various animal welfare organizations throughout her life.

Audrey Hepburn was a British actress and fashion icon who gained fame during the 1950s. She appeared in numerous films during her career, including "Roman Holiday" (1953), "Sabrina" (1954), and "Funny Face" (1957).

Hepburn's unique beauty and elegant style made her an instant sensation in the 1950s. Her trademark pixie haircut, tailored clothing, and delicate features set her apart from other actresses and models of the era.

Hepburn was also a dedicated humanitarian. She worked with UNICEF to improve the lives of children in developing countries and was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in recognition of her philanthropic work.