Top Five Models of All Times

They’re all gorgeous, sassy and successful. They live glitzy and glamorous lives that we ordinary mortals can only dream about. What’s admirable about them is the fact that they managed to keep a good head on their shoulders and continue their blazing success in other fields. In no particular order, here are my top supermodels:

1. Cindy Crawford

   This American beauty was an icon in my youth. At the peak of her career, she bagged almost all major modeling contracts. She was host of MTV’s House of Style from 1989 to 1995. She even tried the movies briefly. Moreover, this beauty has brains too. She was a high school valedictorian and actually won an academic scholarship to Northwestern University. She was married to the hollywood hunk of that time, Richard Gere. Though that union didn’t last, she definitely rebounded by marrying Gerber heir, Rande. Today, they have two beautiful, fashion savvy children. She is also an official supporter of the Ronald Mcdonald House Charities.

2. Tyra Banks

   One of the few very successful African-American models, Tyra has definitely made her mark in the business. She was the first African American woman to grace the covers of GQ and Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. After reigning the ramps and countless magazine covers, she has crossed over to the small screen. She of course went on to conquer this medium, becoming one of TV’s favorite talk show host. Her show has in fact been nominated for an Emmy. She is also a thriving entrepreneur. She has also repeatedly ranked among the world’s most influential people by Time magazine.

3. Kate Moss

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   The British idol changed the norms of the modeling world, dramatically ushering in the era of waifs. She went on to become an international fashion icon. Though she has had her share of controversies, she overcame all these and even reportedly earns more money than before her cocaine scandal. 2007 was a big year for Kate, her first foray into designing was hugely successful. Her Topshop collection has been lauded by British fashion critics. More importantly, she is an active supporter of Breakthrough Breast Cancer charity and War Child.

4. Gisele Bundchen

   The Brazilian supermodel is the sixteenth richest woman in the entertainment world according to Forbes. She also holds the title of world’s richest supermodel in Guinness Book of World Records. The face of more than 20 international brands is dedicated to protecting the Amazon Rainforest, donating a percentage of profits of her Ipanema Gisele Bundchen sandals for this cause. Other charities and humanitarian causes she supports are the I Am African Campaign, American Express Red Card both for HIV African victims, St. Jude Children’S Hospital and Fashion Targets Breast Cancer. She was in a relationship with Hollywood heartthrob Leonardo Dicaprio for years and is now dating New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady. “Nuff said.

5. Heidi Klum

   The stunning supermodel started out as the winner of Germany’s Model ‘92 contest. She has since then earned a niche for herself in the highly competitive world of modeling. Best known for her work with Victoria”s Secret, she is also an actress, television producer, fashion designer, artist, occasional singer and TV host. Germany’s Next Top Model and Project Runway cemented her fame. Amazingly, Heidi is able to balance a busy career and a stable and happy family life. She is constantly photographed spending time with her three children at the beach, park and amusement centers. She and husband Seal are as sweet and loving as when they first came out as a couple.

These highly successful women are not your typical bland beauties, they’re bold enough to go beyond their good looks and venture into other undertakings that would test their smarts and skills. They are today’s celebrity figures worth emulating, women with beauty, brains and heart.