Since the start of runway modeling, the catwalk has seen some of the most iconic moments in fashion history. Runway modeling was founded in the 1860s but didn’t become popular until the mid 1900’s. Many models have left their mark on the fashion industry, whether for their unique walks, looks, or even controversies. However, these following moments have made the biggest impact on the catwalk and will foerver be remembered in fashion history.
Bella Hadid for Coperni
In 2022, Bella closed the season 23 show for Coperni, stunning the audience by having the dress painted on her. In a mere 15 minutes, Hadid presented us with a spray-on, white dress that was not just for show, but also moved with her as she continued her walk down the runway.
Naomi Campbell for Versace
Naomi presented us with one of the most historic hair flips while walking for Versace in 1999. In an attempt to show off the back of the stunning, black slip dress, Naomi flawlessly timed her hair adjustment with her pose at the end of the runway.
Gisele Bündchen for Victoria’s Secret.
During the 2002 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, Gisele was accompanied on stage by not only the other models but also protesters holding signs saying, “Gisele: Fur Scum”. Despite the hate, Bündchen did not bat an eye and continued her way down the catwalk.
Adriana Lima closing Victoria’s Secret
In 2018, the fashion community shed tears for Adriana, as this was her final show for VS after 20 years of modeling. Victoria’s Secret, along with the audience, gave her a special goodbye and thanked her for the impact she had made over the last few years. However, after taking 5 years away, Lima announced her return for the VS “Icon Collection”.
Shalom Harlow and Amber Valletta for Todd Oldham
Shalom and Amber took to the runway in 1995 and had, what appeared to be a feud while on the runway together. When Amber made it to the end of the runway to pose, Shalom wasted no time to step in front of her and have her moment. As the pair walks back up the runway, they turn for one last pose for the cameras. Despite the seeming conflict between the two supermodels, Shalom cleared the air during an interview with Vogue stating, “You can see as we were walking back, I turn to her and say a few things, the first thing I say is ‘keep up with me’ and then you see me turn and say ‘ok now turn.”
Male Runway Crashers during Milan Fashion Week
In 2001, during the IceBerg spring/summer show, two men quickly make their way onto the stage, walk down the runway, and pose for a picture. This moment is still often talked about and will forever be iconic.
Alek Wek for Betsey Johnson
Alek Wek made her mark on the runway in 1998 by throwing off her blonde wig at the end of the catwalk. While many believe this is a protest to European beauty standards, it was never confirmed whether this was an act of rebellion or a part of the show.
Moschino 2003
Moschino shows were known for opening in ridiculous ways, such as walking backward and wardrobe malfunctions, as a way to loosen up the audience before the clothes were presented. In 2003, not all the models made it down the runway after proceeding to trip over one another. This show was particularly iconic due to how much of a disaster it was.
Shalom Harlow and Brandi Quinones for Versace
During the Versace Spring show in 1995, Shalom, wearing black, and Brandi, wearing white, collided shoulders in the middle of the runway, representing yin and yang. This stunt was a genius way of incorporating the statement, “opposites attract”. However, at the time, this connection was not made by all, and yet another Shalom controversy was born.
Gigi Hadid for Jacquemus
In Fall, 2020, Gigi took to the catwalk wearing an open-back, beige dress paired with the classic mini Jacquemus bag. While walking, Hadid adjusted her hair to the front to show off the asymmetrical straps that were presented in the back. This moment proved just how good Gigi is at her job by turning a simple movement of her hair, into an iconic moment.
