Ann Turkel: A Glimpse into the Glamour and Grace of Her Modeling Days

Ann Turkel wasn’t always the glamorous face gracing the covers of fashion magazines. In the late 1960s, a chance encounter on the streets of New York City set her on a path that would transform her into one of the most sought-after models of the era.

A Turning Point: Spotted by a Vogue Editor

While details of her pre-modeling life remain scarce, fate intervened when a keen eye from Vogue Magazine spotted Turkel’s statuesque figure and striking beauty. This wasn’t just any editor; it was Diana Vreeland, the legendary editor-in-chief known for her bold vision and ability to spot future stars. Vreeland didn’t hesitate, and Turkel soon found herself thrust into the world of high fashion photography.

Taking the Fashion World by Storm

Turkel’s modeling career took off like a rocket. Photographers clamored to work with her, capturing her elegance and charisma on film. Renowned photographer Patrick Lichfield, known for his innovative style, shot her on location in exotic locales like the Bahamas and Italy, further solidifying her status as a rising star. Her face became synonymous with luxury and sophistication, gracing the covers of top fashion magazines and captivating audiences worldwide.

Beyond the Runway: International Success

Turkel’s appeal wasn’t limited to the American market. Her success quickly transcended borders, and she soon found herself in high demand across Europe and Japan. Major cosmetic giants like Max Factor, Revlon, and Chanel saw her as the perfect embodiment of their brands, and she became the face of their advertising campaigns. This international recognition cemented her reputation as a global fashion icon.

Despite her meteoric rise, Turkel’s reign at the top of the modeling world was surprisingly short-lived. At the age of 27, she made a bold decision. Hollywood beckoned, and she couldn’t resist the allure of the silver screen. Landing a role opposite Richard Harris in the film “99 and 44/100% Dead,” she not only embarked on a new career path but also married her co-star. While she continued to act for several years, her modeling career took a backseat.

#1 Ann Turkel wore Roman-striped evening pajamas by Galanos and sandals by Dal Co, 1966.

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#2 Ann Turkel in pale blue crepe embroidered with silver paillettes by Norman Norell, 1966.

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#3 Ann Turkel in a silver-pailletted full-length dress by Norman Norell, 1966.

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#4 Ann Turkel in silvered stretch jeans and a shirt by Lynn Stuart, 1966.

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#5 Ann Turkel in silvered stretch jeans and a shirt by Lynn Stuart, 1966.

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#6 Ann Turkel wore dinner pajamas by Dominic for Matty Talmack, 1966.

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#7 Ann Turkel photographed for Vogue, 1966.

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#8 Ann Turkel wearing striped dinner pajamas by Galanos on a red couch, 1966.

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#9 Ann Turkel from the series ‘Furs’ in Leningrad, 1967.

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#10 Ann Turkel in a Pinwheel print shift by Vanity Fair, 1967.

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#11 Ann Turkel in a yellow crêpe jumpsuit by Givenchy, 1967.

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#12 Ann Turkel in a crèpe-georgette mini-dress by Pierre Cardin, 1967.

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#13 Ann Turkel in sky-blue silk charmeuse crêpe dinner-pyjamas by Stella, 1967.

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#14 Ann Turkel in a gold dinner coat by Originala, 1967.

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#15 Ann Turkel in a silk crêpe dress by Sophie of Saks Fifth Avenue, 1967.

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#16 Ann Turkel in a tailored shirtdress by Samuel Winston, 1967.

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#17 Ann Turkel in a tiger color combination dress by Oscar de la Renta Boutique, 1967.

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#18 Ann Turkel on the domes of the Catherine Palace in Pushkin, 1967.

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#19 Ann Turkel in a short brown linen dress by Susan Small in Tunis, 1967.

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#20 Ann Turkel in a chrome-yellow mink coat by Maximilian, 1968.

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#21 Ann Turkel in a cutout sea coral suit by Cole of California, 1968.

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#22 Ann Turkel in a deep plush cotton evening dress by Murray Nieman for Hannah Troy, 1968.

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#23 Ann Turkel in a geranium-red wool coat by Bardley, 1968.

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#24 Ann Turkel in a SAGA mink jacket by Reiss & Fabrizio, 1968.

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#25 Ann Turkel wearing a print dress by Originala, January 1968.

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#26 Ann Turkel in a coral bodysuit by De Weese, 1968.

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#27 Ann Turkel wearing a gold chain pendant by Madame Grès, 1969.

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#28 Ann Turkel in little brass grommets by Originala with a hat by Adolfo, 1969.

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