The United States has long been a global powerhouse in the fashion and modeling world, launching the careers of some of the most recognizable and successful models in history. From luxury runways to international campaigns and social media domination, American models continue to shape the global beauty standard and revolutionize the fashion landscape.
Below is a comprehensive list of the top models in the USA who have not only risen to stardom through modeling but have also become influential cultural icons.
1. Gigi Hadid – The Runway Royalty
Born: April 23, 1995
Hometown: Los Angeles, California
Gigi Hadid is one of the most prominent American models of the 21st century. Discovered at a young age by Guess, she quickly transitioned to high fashion, becoming a runway favorite for Versace, Chanel, Fendi, Prada, and Victoria’s Secret.
Highlights:
- Over 35 Vogue international covers
- Named International Model of the Year by the British Fashion Council (2016)
- Major brand ambassador for Maybelline, Reebok, and Tommy Hilfiger
- Featured in campaigns for Valentino, Burberry, and Moschino
Why She’s a Top Model: Gigi combines classic beauty with modern charisma, making her a dominant force on runways and social media.
2. Kendall Jenner – Fashion’s Reality Royal
Born: November 3, 1995
Hometown: Los Angeles, California
Starting out on “Keeping Up With The Kardashians,” Kendall Jenner transitioned into high fashion with an impressive runway debut at Marc Jacobs. Today, she is a global ambassador for top luxury brands and one of the highest-paid models in the world.
Highlights:
- Walked for Balmain, Givenchy, Dior, and Chanel
- Campaigns for Estée Lauder, Calvin Klein, and Adidas
- Over 200 million Instagram followers, making her a top influencer
- Regular on Forbes’ Highest-Paid Models list
Why She Stands Out: Kendall’s blend of mainstream fame and modeling credibility makes her a unique, high-value figure in the fashion world.
3. Bella Hadid – The Editorial Maven
Born: October 9, 1996
Hometown: Washington, D.C. / Malibu, CA
Bella Hadid, sister of Gigi Hadid, has carved her own distinctive path in the modeling world. Known for her angular features, smoldering gaze, and editorial versatility, she is a staple on the covers of fashion magazines and international catwalks.
Highlights:
- Voted Model of the Year by Models.com (2022)
- Muse for Dior Beauty and frequent collaborator with Alexander Wang, Mugler, and Versace
- Noted for her dramatic transformations and high-fashion adaptability
- Over 60 Vogue covers worldwide
Why She’s a Leader: Bella’s fearless experimentation and chameleon-like presence set her apart as a high-fashion icon.
4. Karlie Kloss – The Powerhouse Philanthropist
Born: August 3, 1992
Hometown: Chicago, Illinois
Karlie Kloss is more than a supermodel—she’s a tech advocate, entrepreneur, and role model. After dominating the catwalks in the 2010s, Karlie founded Kode With Klossy, a nonprofit teaching young girls to code, redefining what it means to be a modern model.
Highlights:
- Former Victoria’s Secret Angel
- Brand ambassador for L’Oréal Paris, Adidas, and Swarovski
- Walked for Oscar de la Renta, Louis Vuitton, and McQueen
- Known for blending intelligence, elegance, and activism
Why She’s Influential: Karlie uses her platform to drive change, making her one of the most respected models in and beyond the fashion industry.
5. Ashley Graham – The Trailblazer for Body Positivity
Born: October 30, 1987
Hometown: Lincoln, Nebraska
Ashley Graham broke barriers as the first plus-size model to appear on the cover of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition. She is a powerful voice for inclusivity, body confidence, and diversity in fashion.
Highlights:
- Featured in campaigns for Levi’s, Lane Bryant, and H&M
- TED Talk speaker and author of the book A New Model
- Advocate for self-love, mental health, and motherhood
- Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People
Why She Inspires: Ashley redefined beauty standards, opening doors for a broader range of representation in modeling.
6. Kaia Gerber – The Next-Gen Supermodel
Born: September 3, 2001
Hometown: Los Angeles, California
Daughter of legendary model Cindy Crawford, Kaia Gerber is following in her mother’s footsteps, bringing her own modern twist to the runway. Her elegant poise and youth appeal have made her a designer favorite.
Highlights:
- Walked for Saint Laurent, Miu Miu, Prada, and Marc Jacobs
- Campaigns for Jimmy Choo, Omega, and Celine
- Vogue covers and editorial spreads from Paris to Tokyo
- Winner of the Model of the Year at the Fashion Awards (2018)
Why She’s Promising: With lineage and talent, Kaia is shaping the future of modeling with both grace and ambition.
7. Hailey Bieber – The Brand Builder
Born: November 22, 1996
Hometown: Tucson, Arizona
Hailey Bieber (née Baldwin) brings a combination of style and business acumen. Apart from gracing top fashion magazines, she launched her own skincare brand, Rhode, earning accolades for her entrepreneurial vision.
Highlights:
- Modeled for Tommy Hilfiger, Ralph Lauren, and Guess
- Cover star for Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, and Vogue
- Social media powerhouse with over 50 million followers
- CEO and founder of Rhode Skincare
Why She’s Relevant: Hailey is not just a model—she’s a brand, redefining how models engage with business and lifestyle industries.
Conclusion
The top models in the USA today are redefining what it means to be a model in the 21st century. With talent, vision, and purpose, they transcend the runway to influence beauty, business, culture, and activism. Whether you’re watching fashion week or scrolling social media, these women are the faces—and voices—shaping tomorrow’s fashion industry.