In the fashion world, uniqueness often leads to recognition, and nothing quite catches the eye like the rare shimmer of red hair. Redhead models, with their striking tresses, naturally draw attention and admiration.
Considering that red hair is the least common natural hair color, these models bring a vibrant splash of color to the runway and editorial shoots.
From the iconic Karen Elson to the captivating Rianne van Rompaey, we’ve curated a list of ten renowned fashion models who are celebrated for their fiery locks.
Redhead Models
Lily Cole
Lily Cole, an English model and red-haired actress, has made a significant mark in the fashion industry by starring in campaigns for prestigious brands, including Tiffany & Co., Prada, Rimmel, and Hermès.
Beyond her modeling career, Lily is deeply passionate about environmental causes. She’s appeared in films like The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus, The Moth Diaries, and Snow White & The Huntsman.
Alexina Graham
Alexina Graham launched her modeling career in 2008 by winning the Ford Modeling competition and quickly rose to prominence.
Her portfolio boasts appearances in publications like Vogue Italia and campaigns for notable brands such as Burberry and L’Oreal Paris. Alexina has also graced the runway for designers like Emporio Armani and Jean-Paul Gaultier.
Her career reached new heights in 2017 and 2018 with her walks in the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, culminating in her becoming a Victoria’s Secret Angel in 2019. No doubt, she is one of the sexiest redheads to model.
Karen Elson
Karen Elson is one of the most accomplished models with red hair in the fashion industry. Her illustrious career is highlighted by starring roles in campaigns for luxury brands such as Celine, Louis Vuitton, and Versace, making her a definitive face in the world of high fashion.
Beyond the catwalk and photo shoots, Karen showcases her versatile talents as a musician making indie music with three albums and one EP to her name.
Tess Holliday
Tess Holliday, a redhead American plus-size model, author, and body positivity advocate, has challenged the conventional beauty standards in the fashion industry. Rising to prominence through social media, Tess became the first model of her size to sign with a major modeling agency.
She has since graced the pages of Vogue Italia, People, and Cosmopolitan UK, among others.
Rianne van Rompaey
Rianne van Rompaey, a distinguished Dutch model with striking ginger locks, hails from Wageningen and initially pursued her studies before fully dedicating herself to the fashion industry.
Discovered after sending her photos to Paparazzi Models, Rianne’s career catapulted when Nicolas Ghesquière selected her as a Louis Vuitton exclusive in 2014. Since then, she has worked with designer brands like Miu Miu, Moschino, Versace, and Marc Jacobs.
Renowned for gracing the covers of Vogue Paris multiple times, as well as the Italian and German editions, making her a modern supermodel.
Cintia Dicker
Cintia Dicker, a Brazilian model, has garnered international recognition for her appearances in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue and her role in the iconic Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show.
Beyond her modeling career, Cintia has also ventured into acting, with a notable role in the Brazilian soap opera Meu Pedacinho de Chão. Demonstrating her entrepreneurial spirit, she expanded her professional portfolio by launching her own swimwear label and, later, a line of candles.
Julia Hafstrom
Hailing from Sweden, model Julia Hafstrom has headlined campaigns for top brands, including Dior Cosmetics, Gucci, Tommy Hilfiger, and MAC Cosmetics. Her career took a notable turn when she made her runway debut at Prada’s resort 2010 show, wearing a shift dress.
Sabina Karlsson
Sabina Karlsson, a Swedish model of Gambian and Swedish descent, has carved a notable niche in the fashion industry by embracing her natural curves and advocating for diversity. Known for her signature curly hairstyle, she transitioned from a size 2 to a plus-size model.
She has graced the runways for designers like Michael Kors and Christian Siriano and has been featured in campaigns for major brands such as Levi’s, H&M, and L’Oréal Paris.
Sara Grace Wallerstedt
Sara Grace Wallerstedt, with her distinct elfish looks, has captivated the fashion world since her debut. This American model’s unique features have made her a muse for top designers and brands.
Sara Grace’s career took off after she walked for Proenza Schouler in her first season. She quickly became a runway staple for prestigious labels like Prada, Valentino, and Givenchy. She’s modeled for the pages of glossies like Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and W Magazine.
Tess McMillan
Tess McMillan is a curve model who has broken barriers in the industry. The fiery-haired model captured attention on international runways, walking for esteemed designers such as Marc Jacobs and Simone Rocha, challenging conventional norms.
Beyond the catwalk, Tess has been featured in high-profile editorials for Vogue, Teen Vogue, and i-D, among others.
The Power of Red
Through the years, redhead models have carved a niche that transcends conventional beauty, embodying uniqueness and the power of standing out.
These female models have showcased their distinctive looks and used their platforms for greater causes, from environmental activism to promoting body positivity.
They remind us that fashion goes beyond clothing and is a canvas for storytelling.