From supermodels to actors: the end of an era
![From supermodels to actors: the end of an era From supermodels to actors: the end of an era](https://images.thedailystar.net/sites/default/files/styles/big_202/public/images/2023/05/30/untitled_design_83.jpg)
In the modern era, women, fashion, and glamour are intricately intertwined. However, during the mid- to late 1980s, this association reached unprecedented heights, giving birth to a cultural icon that would captivate the world: the supermodel. What started as a mere term soon became a symbol of celebrity status within the modelling industry.
The term 'supermodel' gained immense popularity in the 1980s, as models transcended their role on the catwalks to become stars in their own right. By the 1990s, they had solidified their position as icons, captivating media attention and commanding the equivalent of superstar status in the modelling realm.
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Evoking a sense of nostalgia, the mention of supermodels instantly transports us back to the 1990s, the heyday of their influence. These iconic figures held remarkable power, dictating the labels they collaborated with, photographers they worked alongside, and campaigns they graced with their presence.
With their names adorning numerous magazine covers and contracts with esteemed fashion houses like Chanel and Louis Vuitton, they ascended to the zenith of their profession. Supermodels transcended the boundaries of the fashion world, becoming celebrated idols admired for their charisma and allure. Even today, the fame of these iconic supermodels remains unbroken, as they continue to be highly sought after for the most prestigious campaigns, representing the epitome of glamour and achievement.
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Within the realm of supermodels, a group of exceptional individuals emerged as true trailblazers in the 1990s. Dubbed "The Big Six," these supermodels captivated the world with their beauty, talent, and charisma. Naomi Campbell, Cindy Crawford, Linda Evangelista, Kate Moss, Claudia Schiffer, and Christy Turlington formed this elite group, showcasing their prowess on runways, gracing the covers of gossip magazines, and even venturing into the world of movies. They became the epitome of success and wealth, leaving an indelible mark on the fashion industry and shaping the concept of supermodels.
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However, like all great eras, the reign of the supermodel eventually came to a close. Time magazine pinpointed 1998 as the turning point that marked the end of this memorable chapter in fashion history.
While supermodels once graced the covers of every magazine and commanded attention on runways worldwide, it is not necessarily a negative development that actors are now being celebrated as modern-day icons. The realm of acting requires immense talent and dedication, making actors valuable role models to look up to.
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Even now, as the 90s supermodels have taken a step back from the limelight, they have also given rise to a discourse, which brings in a comparison to today's 'supermodels'. The term itself is a juxtaposition in its connotative meaning, with many contributing it to models who were self-made.
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The issue and discussion of nepotism has somewhat taken the modelling industry under its thrall, which could be one of the many silent reasons behind magazines choosing actors to grace their covers. Individuals who appeal to the audience's visual aesthetics as well as intellectual ones, have pushed aside the modern supermodels to ramps and fashion weeks, even taking over social media.
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