Naomi Campbell – 90s supermodel

Possibly one of the most famous and talked about fashion models of the 1980s and 1990s has to be Naomi Campbell. Not only recognisable for her role as one of the five original supermodels. Her vibrant reputation as a diva was also a hot topic of conversation. Alongside other big names in fashion during the reign of the supermodel, she certainly created a talking point in and out of the fashion world.

Naomi Campbell

Her recent ventures have seen Naomi Campbell embark on appearances in film and television. Yet she still makes appearances in some of the biggest fashion designer catwalks collections today. Although she has made the number of headlines in a number of ways during her career. Naomi Campbell is also involved in several charitable ventures and continues to use her role in fashion to actively work with others to bring issues and charities to the forefront.

Her early years

Born in London, Naomi Campbell first hit the scene during her early years in Bob Marley’s music video ‘Is This Love’. Whilst studying at the famous Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts, she was scouted by her founding model agency Synchro. Her career soon took off from this moment, as she graced the cover of Elle magazine just before turning 16.

Infamous career

During the 1980s Naomi Campbell formed part of an elite group of supermodels. Joined by Christy Turlington, Linda Evangelista, Cindy Crawford, Claudia Schiffer and Kate Moss. These top supermodels were in demand and every designer wanted them to front top campaigns. Although her career didn’t start without controversy and discrimination, in 1988 Naomi Campbell made an appearance as the first black women to grace the cover of Vogue since 1966. After this her career went from strength to strength fronting campaigns and walking runways for the biggest names in fashion.

Infamous reputation

Although Naomi Campbell has enjoyed a successful and rewarding career in the fashion industry and beyond. She has certainly created a reputation in other controversial ways. From highly publicised assault convictions and drug addiction, this has seen this super model in the limelight for less than glamourous reasons.

Appearances

On her own and alongside her fashion model counterparts, Naomi Campbell didn’t just showcase the latest collections during fashion weeks across the globe. She also appeared in several notable music videos, campaigns and charity appeals. Starring in top music idol videos including Michael Jackson’s ‘In the Closet’ and George Michael’s hit ‘Freedom’. She had certainly made a name for herself as a star alongside other supermodels at the time.

Naomi campbell

For more than two decades as an international supermodel, Naomi Campbell has walked the catwalks of several fashion designers. Her career spans catwalk appearances for collections such as Marc Jacobs, Yves Saint Laurent, Prada, Burberry, Versace and Christian Dior to name a few. She has also appeared in many advertising campaigns including Fendi, Escada, Victoria’s Secret and Ralph Lauren. Although she has taken a back seat from her modelling career in recent years, she has still made appearances in statement anniversary collections for Zac Posen and Burberry.

Naomi campbell – Charitable ventures

Due to Naomi Campbell’s success, she has used her standing as a notable fashion figure to raise awareness for several charities. She is involved in numerous campaigns and charity work including support for the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, Fashion for Relief and the White Ribbon Alliance for Safe Motherhood. She has also since received several awards for her contribution and recognition to these worthy causes.

Steal her style

Naomi Campbell is no stranger to looking glamorous, even her notable community service hours she opted for designer clothing ensembles. In the past her style choices may have been seen as excessive due to her love of designer brands. Yet with recent appearances showcasing a chic and sophisticated take on excess. There’s so much to love about this supermodels fashion choices.

Naomi campbell – 90s inspiration

From her days of supermodel stardom during the 1990s, Naomi Campbell loves a sleek body con style dress. She quite literally knew to outshine her fashionable counterparts with stunning dresses and dazzling jewellery. Her bodycon styles and spectacular little black dress outfits were a statement look before the likes of the Kardashians. Her impeccable beauty regime and luscious mermaid inspired hair is an inspiration to modern day styling. Naomi wore everything from tartan skirts, double denim to gingham. Each of these key fashion trends have been recreated in the recent 90s revival.

Glamorous gowns

No stranger to spectacular red carpet gowns, Naomi always wows in beautiful designer outfits. In recent years dresses have included a stunning midnight blue gown worn at Elton John’s Oscars After Party and dazzling Roberto Cavalli gown for the 2014 BAFTA Awards. She’s also a big fan of including colour into her outfits. Often bright shades including reds, purples and tangerine offer a statement look with sophisticated style. Another of Naomi’s fashion choices highlight her love of metallic and shimmering colour. She’s often seen in sparking ensembles including an Atelier Versace dress at the Fragrance Foundation Awards in June 2015 and her golden Burberry gown at the Evening Standard Theatre Awards.

So when we think of this iconic supermodel of the 80s and 90s, we may remember back to her days of unquestionable style and memorable reputation. It’s key to remember that Naomi Campbell shaped the fashion industry with a sharp attitude and work ethic that help carve a career for women in the industry.

• 1980s
• 1990s
• Icon
• Iconic
• WOMEN