Linda Evangelista is a supermodel and fashion icon who became one of the most prominent and influential figures in the fashion world during the 1980s and 1990s.
Known for her striking looks, incredible versatility, and legendary ability to transform in front of the camera, Evangelista helped shape the era of the “supermodel.” Her iconic statement, “We don’t wake up for less than $10,000 a day,” cemented her as a symbol of glamour and power in the fashion industry.
Early Life and Beginnings
Linda Evangelista was born on May 10, 1965, in St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada, to Italian immigrant parents. Raised in a modest, close-knit family, Evangelista developed an early interest in fashion and beauty. At the age of 16, she entered the Miss Teen Niagara beauty pageant, where her potential as a model was discovered.
After signing with Elite Model Management, she moved to New York City to pursue modeling full-time. Her big break came in the early 1980s when she moved to Paris to work in the European fashion scene, quickly gaining attention for her striking features and professionalism.
Rise to Supermodel Stardom
By the late 1980s, Evangelista had become a household name in the fashion world. She was a favorite of designers like Karl Lagerfeld, Gianni Versace, and Valentino, walking the runway for their shows and becoming the face of their campaigns. Her chameleon-like ability to transform her look set her apart from her peers, making her one of the most versatile and sought-after models of her time.
Evangelista’s collaboration with photographer Steven Meisel resulted in some of the most iconic images in fashion history, further solidifying her status as a supermodel. She graced the covers of hundreds of magazines, including Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and Elle, and became a muse for makeup artist François Nars and hairstylist Oribe Canales.
The Supermodel Era
Linda Evangelista was one of the “Big Five” supermodels of the 1990s, alongside Naomi Campbell, Christy Turlington, Cindy Crawford, and Claudia Schiffer. Together, they dominated runways, campaigns, and magazine covers, becoming global celebrities who transcended the fashion industry.
Her iconic moment in George Michael’s “Freedom! ’90” music video, alongside other supermodels, remains a defining cultural moment of the era. Evangelista was known for her ever-changing hairstyles, including the bold decision to cut her hair short in 1988, which sparked a trend and demonstrated her influence on fashion and beauty.
Later Career and Challenges
Although the supermodel era began to wane in the late 1990s, Evangelista continued to work in fashion, appearing in campaigns for Prada, L’Oréal, and more. In recent years, she has spoken openly about personal struggles, including a high-profile lawsuit over a cosmetic procedure that caused physical and emotional distress. Her candidness has sparked discussions about beauty standards and the pressures faced by women in the public eye.
Personal Life
Linda Evangelista has one son, Augustin James, born in 2006. She has maintained a relatively private personal life, choosing to focus on her family and her health.
Legacy and Influence
Linda Evangelista’s influence on the fashion industry is immeasurable. Her ability to redefine beauty and set trends, coupled with her professionalism and work ethic, helped elevate modeling to an art form. She remains a symbol of empowerment and elegance, inspiring generations of models and fashion enthusiasts.
