10 Underrated Models from the 1990s You Should Know But Probably Don't

When you think of '90s supermodels, names like Naomi Campbell, Linda Evangelista, and Cindy Crawford instantly come to mind. These fashion powerhouses ruled the runways and graced countless magazine covers, cementing their status as industry icons. Some of their outfits remain references to this day, like Campbell's Versace butterfly dress or Crawford's Hervé Léger bandage dress. Behind the bold headlines and unforgettable campaigns were other faces just as captivating. There were models whose influence shaped the decade, too, but whose names aren't as frequently celebrated.

These models walked for the same legendary designers, posed for the same high-profile photographers, and played pivotal roles in making the ‘90s a golden age of fashion. Yet, they’ve somehow slipped through the cracks of mainstream nostalgia, including names like Pakistani-German model Yasmeen Ghauri who walked Chanel, Thierry Mugler model Nadja Auermann, Jamaican model Georgianna Robertson who walked Ralph Lauren, and many more.

While Tyra Banks, Christy Turlington, Kate Moss, and Claudia Schiffer continue to dominate conversations (and catwalks), a roster of equally stunning talents was redefining beauty standards and breaking barriers. It’s time to shine a light on these underrated trailblazers who were just as pivotal in defining an era.

Keep scrolling to learn the names and faces of important yet underrated models to know from the '90s, including some of their most memorable runway moments.

Yasmeen Ghauri

Yasmeen Ghauri was a trailblazing force in the '90s, redefining the runway with her sultry gaze and signature strut. When she was walking, Ghauri was so powerful it was almost like her hips dislocated. The Canadian supermodel of Pakistani-German descent captivated the fashion industry with her exotic allure and unparalleled presence. Ghauri became a muse for legendary designers like Gianni Versace, Jean-Paul Gaultier, and Valentino, gracing the catwalks of Chanel, Dior, and Hermès. If the one and only Tyra Banks dubs your runway strut as the “walk of life,” you’re likely a bonafide icon.

Eva Herzigová

There are few who fully embody that '90s model look like Eva Herzigová. The Czech supermodel became an icon with her unforgettable "Hello Boys" campaign for Wonderbra, which launched her into superstardom. Herzigová graced the runways for legendary designers such as Thierry Mugler, Christian Dior, and Vivienne Westwood.

Karen Mulder

Imagine being such a force of nature on the runway that you have your own Barbie doll—Karen Mulder did just that. The Dutch supermodel captivated the fashion world with her ethereal beauty and poised elegance. Mulder walked for the most prestigious designers, including Victoria’s Secret, Chanel, and Thierry Mugler.

Nadja Auermann

First discovered in a Berlin café in 1989, Nadja Auermann quickly ascended the fashion world, gracing the covers of both Vogue and Harper's Bazaar in September 1994. Known for her striking appearance and record-setting long legs, Auermann became a muse for renowned photographers like Peter Lindbergh. Throughout her career, she walked the runway for esteemed designers such as Thierry Mugler, Dolce & Gabbana, Fendi, and Yves Saint Laurent. Her influence extended beyond the catwalk, and she fronted advertising campaigns for luxury brands including Prada, Chanel, and Hermès.

Amber Valletta

Rising to fame as one of the original “it” girls, Amber Valletta graced countless magazine covers and became a muse for renowned designers like Versace, Prada, and Calvin Klein. Her commanding walk on the runways of Paris, Milan, and New York solidified her legend status in the '90s fashion landscape. Beyond her modeling prowess, Valletta has been quite the trailblazer over the years as an advocate for sustainability in fashion.

Beverly Peele

Beverly Peele burst onto the fashion scene in the late 1980s, swiftly rising to prominence as one of the most sought-after models of her time. Known for her striking beauty and captivating presence, Peele became a trailblazer, gracing the covers of top magazines like Vogue and Elle. She broke barriers for Black models in an industry still grappling with diversity. Peele’s runway career was nothing short of legendary, walking for iconic designers such as Versace, Todd Oldham, and Fendi.

Georgina Grenville

Discovered at just 14 years old, Georgina Grenville quickly rose to prominence in the 90s fashion scene for her striking features, gracing the runways of iconic designers such as Versace, Michael Kors, and Bill Blass. The South African supermodel became a muse for Tom Ford during his transformative era at Gucci, embodying the sleek, sensual aesthetic that defined his collections. With her timeless beauty and commanding presence, Grenville not only dominated editorials and campaigns but also influenced a new wave of minimalist sophistication in fashion.

Debra Shaw

Rising to prominence in the 1990s, Debra Shaw became a muse for some of the world’s most influential designers, including Alexander McQueen, John Galliano, and Jean-Paul Gaultier. Shaw’s distinctive look and powerful runway presence redefined beauty standards, paving the way for more diversity on the catwalk.

Georgianna Robertson

A trailblazing Jamaican model, Georgianna Robertson was discovered at just 15 years old while shopping in her hometown of Kingston. Her striking features and statuesque presence quickly caught the attention of the fashion figures, leading her to the runways of Paris and New York. Robertson became a prominent face in campaigns for high-end brands such as Yves Saint Laurent, Ralph Lauren, and Thierry Mugler, while also gracing the pages of Vogue, Elle, and Harper's Bazaar. She broke barriers for Caribbean models and inspired a new generation to embrace their heritage in fashion.

Roshumba Williams

Roshumba Williams burst onto the modeling scene in the late 1980s after being discovered by legendary designer Yves Saint Laurent in Paris. Her statuesque frame, striking beauty, and natural afro immediately set her apart, later gracing the pages of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition multiple times and walking the runway for top designers like Giorgio Armani, Versace, and Isaac Mizrahi.