The modeling industry has traditionally been youth-obsessed, with agencies and brands favoring fresh-faced teenagers and twenty-somethings. However, in recent years, there has been a welcome shift towards greater age inclusivity on the runways and in fashion campaigns.
As we move into 2024, it’s exciting to see an increasing number of mature models aged 40 and above gracing the covers of magazines, walking in high-profile shows, and landing lucrative endorsement deals.
As the fashion world evolves to reflect the diversity of its consumers better, mature models are proving that style and relevance have no expiration date.
Here are the top 10 mature models to keep an eye on in 2024:
1. Kristen McMenamy (59 years old)
Kristen McMenamy, the undisputed queen of mature modeling, has been a force to be reckoned with since the 1980s. With her striking angular features, androgynous appeal, and inimitable presence, McMenamy has graced the runways of prestigious fashion houses like Chanel, Valentino, and Versace well into her 50s.
She is known for her daring, avant-garde looks. She continues to push boundaries and redefine conventional beauty standards. In 2024, she shows no signs of slowing down, continuing to book major campaigns and editorials that celebrate her timeless, edgy beauty.
2. Paulina Porizkova (58 years old)
Paulina Porizkova first rose to fame as a swimsuit model in the 1980s, but her career has only grown more impressive with age.
Now in her late 50s, the Swedish-born beauty has become an outspoken advocate for age positivity and body confidence, frequently sharing unretouched photos on social media to inspire her millions of followers.
With her natural radiance and elegant, sophisticated looks, Porizkova is a refreshing face in an industry often criticized for its unrealistic portrayals.
In 2024, she is set to star in several high-profile campaigns, proving that her self-assurance and inner beauty are more alluring than ever.
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3. Yasmin Le Bon (59 years old)
British model Yasmin Le Bon has been a fixture in the fashion industry for over three decades, having graced the covers of countless magazines like Vogue and Elle and walked for iconic designers such as John Galliano and Vivienne Westwood.
As she approaches her late 50s, Le Bon’s timeless elegance, poise, and striking, exotic features continue to captivate. Major luxury brands are clamoring to book her for campaigns and runway shows in 2024, valuing her sophistication and longevity in the business.
4. Carolyn Murphy (49 years old)
At 48 years old, Carolyn Murphy is a shining example of how to age gracefully in the modeling world. The former Sports Illustrated swimsuit cover star has transitioned seamlessly into the realm of high fashion over the past decade, walking for luxury brands like Michael Kors and Dolce & Gabbana and appearing in prestigious magazines like Harper’s Bazaar.
With her alluring mix of classic American beauty and edgy sophistication, Murphy continues to be in high demand. In 2024, she is set to appear in several prestigious fashion editorials and campaigns, showcasing her enduring beauty and versatility across genres.
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5. Maye Musk (75 years old)
Defying all conventional notions of what a model should look like, Maye Musk is a true trailblazer and inspiration.
At 75 years old, the mother of tech mogul Elon Musk has enjoyed a remarkable renaissance in her modeling career over the past five years. She has landed major campaigns with accessible brands like Covergirl and Belk and high-fashion clients like Valentra Vegan Perfumes.
With her signature silver hair, bright smile, and ageless, elegant looks, Musk proves that true beauty transcends age. In 2024, she shows no signs of slowing down, continuing to inspire with her confidence, energy, and unwavering sense of self-worth.
6. Jacky O’Shaughnessy (66 years old)
Jacky O’Shaughnessy first made waves in the modeling world in the 1970s as a free-spirited, bohemian beauty, but her career has experienced a remarkable resurgence in recent years thanks to the embrace of age diversity.
At 66 years old, the striking American model with her trademark long, gray hair has walked for major designers like Marc Jacobs and Moschino, proving that age is truly just a number when it comes to fashion.
Her unique, instantly recognizable look makes her a muse for visionary designers and photographers seeking individuality. In 2024, O’Shaughnessy is set to appear in several high-profile campaigns and avant-garde editorials, cementing her status as an icon of mature modeling.
7. Evelyn Sharma (42 years old)
While she may be one of the younger models on this list, Evelyn Sharma’s journey to success has been anything but conventional.
After taking an extended break from modeling in her early 30s to focus on starting a family, the German beauty made a triumphant return to the industry in her late 30s, instantly booking major runway shows and campaigns.
Now 42, Sharma’s exotic looks and toned physique are in high demand, having walked for major luxury brands like Fendi and Valentino in recent seasons. In 2024, she is set to continue her remarkable career renaissance, inspiring women everywhere to chase their dreams at any age.
8. Marie Sophie Wilson (64 years old)
Marie Sophie Wilson is living proof that true beauty transcends age, size and conventional norms. At 64 years old, the Jamaican-born curve model has enjoyed a career renaissance in recent years, appearing in high-profile lingerie and swimwear campaigns for inclusive brands like Rag & Bone and J.Crew.
With her striking features, lush silver curls, and confident, body-positive demeanor, Wilson is helping to redefine beauty standards and representation in the fashion industry. In 2024, she is set to appear in several high-profile editorials and runway shows, further solidifying her status as an inspiration to mature women everywhere.
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9. Beverly Johnson (71 years old)
At 71 years old, Beverly Johnson remains a true force to be reckoned with in the modeling world.
As the first Black model to grace the cover of American Vogue in 1974, Johnson paved the way for greater diversity and representation in fashion. Now, decades later, she continues to inspire with her confidence, grace and enduring good looks.
In 2024, Johnson is poised to star in several groundbreaking campaigns and editorials that celebrate her trailblazing legacy and the timeless beauty of mature models.
10. Montserrat Alvarez (55 years old)
Rounding out our list is Montserrat Alvarez, a true pioneer and icon in the mature modeling movement.
At 60 years old, the statuesque Spanish beauty with her trademark silver mane has graced the covers of top fashion magazines like Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar, proving that age is no barrier to success and visibility in the fashion industry.
With her elegant yet striking features, graceful presence, and unwavering self-confidence, Alvarez is set to continue inspiring women of all ages in 2024 and beyond as she walks major runways and stars in prestigious campaigns.
Conclusion
As we move into 2024, it’s clear that the mature modeling movement is more than just a passing trend. It’s a long-overdue celebration of the beauty, wisdom, individuality, and timeless allure that comes with age.
These ten models, each with their unique looks, personalities, and journeys, are helping to redefine conventional beauty standards and paving the way for greater age, size, and racial inclusivity in the fashion industry.
