The Most Gorgeous American Models

Julian Jefferson
Updated August 22, 2019 715.5K views 98 items
Ranked By
79.4K votes
5.7K voters

American fashion models and supermodels: Every well-known American top model and female models from the US are listed here. Like Cindy Crawford who was the first notable American fashion model to have a striking effect on and off the ramp. This list includes the names of American female models along with the best American model pictures. The US is known for producing a number of the world's top models. American model search agencies are always keen on getting many actresses with supermodel type bodies into modeling, and being asked to model for some US ads. On the other hand, only a small number of American top models have gone on to be successful actresses.

This list includes famous beautiful (not just the hottest or the sexiest) actresses that have also done modeling work as well.

  • 1
    1,219 VOTES
    Hannah Jeter
    Photo: Frazer Harrison / Getty Images
    Hannah Jeter (née Davis; born May 5, 1990) is an American model and television host best known for her appearances in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, including the cover of the 2015 edition.
    1,219 votes
  • 2
    1,568 VOTES
    Brooklyn Decker, an American model and actress, has carved a distinctive path in the entertainment industry. Born on April 12, 1987, she grew up in Kettering, Ohio, before her family relocated to Charlotte, North Carolina. A chance encounter at a shopping mall led to her discovery by a talent scout, which marked the beginning of her modeling career at the age of 16. She swiftly climbed the modeling ladder, working for prominent brands such as Victoria's Secret and The Gap, further enhancing her credibility in the fashion world. Decker's breakthrough moment arrived in 2010 when she graced the cover of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. This high-profile recognition not only amplified her popularity but also opened doors for her transition into acting. She made her acting debut in 2011 with the film Just Go With It, sharing screen space with renowned actors like Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston. Her performance was well-received, and she continued to build her acting portfolio with roles in movies and television series such as Battleship, What to Expect When You're Expecting, and Grace and Frankie. Beyond her professional achievements, Brooklyn Decker is also known for her philanthropic activities. She is a dedicated advocate for the Special Olympics, an organization close to her heart due to her aunt's participation as an athlete. Additionally, she is involved in environmental causes, particularly focusing on ocean conservation.
    1,568 votes
  • 3
    710 VOTES
    Kim Smith
    Photo: Featureflash Photo Agency / Shutterstock
    Kimberly Katherine "Kim" Smith (born March 3, 1983) is a former American fashion model and actress.
    710 votes
  • 4
    873 VOTES
    Joanna Krupa, a Polish-born American model and actress, has made a name for herself both on the runway and on the screen. Born on April 23, 1979, in Warsaw, Poland, she immigrated to the United States with her family while she was just a child. She was raised in Chicago, Illinois, before moving to Los Angeles in her early career years. A testament to the power of determination and hard work, Krupa's career rose from modeling gigs to international stardom. Krupa's striking beauty propelled her into the world of modeling, initially making waves as a lingerie model for Frederick's of Hollywood. Her international breakthrough came when she graced the covers of globally acclaimed magazines such as Maxim and FHM. In 2004, Krupa earned recognition from Playboy, being named the world's sexiest swimsuit model. This commendation solidified her status in the modeling industry and opened up opportunities in the world of television and film. Beyond the realm of modeling, Krupa showcased her versatility by venturing into television and film. She competed in the ninth season of the popular reality show Dancing with the Stars and hosted Poland's Next Top Model. Additionally, she appeared in television series such as Las Vegas and CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, and films including Planet of the Apes and Scary Movie 4. An ardent animal rights activist, Krupa uses her fame to advocate for animal welfare, having posed for numerous PETA campaigns. A multifaceted personality, Joanna Krupa continues to inspire with her diverse career and dedication to causes close to her heart.
    873 votes
  • 5
    550 VOTES
    Amanda Hearst
    Photo: Metaweb (FB) / Fair use
    Amanda Randolph Hearst (born January 5, 1984) is an American socialite, activist, fashion model, and heiress to the Hearst Corporation, William Randolph Hearst's media conglomerate. She is an associate market editor at Marie Claire and the founder of Friends of Finn, an organization dedicated to stopping the inhumane treatment of dogs in puppy mills. She also served as a co-chair of Riverkeeper's Junior Council.
    550 votes
  • 6
    516 VOTES
    Sarah Shahi
    Photo: Gregg DeGuire / Getty Images
    Sarah Shahi, born Aahoo Jahansouz Shahi, is a renowned actress and former NFL cheerleader with an intriguingly diverse background. Born on January 10, 1980, in Euless, Texas, Sarah is of Iranian and Spanish descent. This multi-talented personality has established herself as a formidable presence in Hollywood through her versatile roles in television and film. Shahi's journey into the limelight started as a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader, a position she held from 1999-2000. However, her passion for acting led her away from the football field and onto the stage. Shahi made her acting debut in 2000 with a guest role in the popular television series, City Guys. Over time, she has depicted a wide range of characters, earning critical acclaim for her performances in popular TV shows like The L Word, Life and Person of Interest. Notwithstanding her successful television career, Shahi didn't relegate herself to one medium. She made several appearances in films, including Old School and Bullet to the Head. Her performance in these movies further demonstrates her ability to inhabit diverse roles seamlessly. Moreover, Shahi has also played integral parts in several independent films, proving her dedication to the craft even outside mainstream cinema. Throughout her career, Shahi has consistently demonstrated the depth of her talent and continues to captivate audiences with her performances.
    516 votes
  • 7
    640 VOTES
    Emily DiDonato
    Photo: Michael Stewart / Getty Images
    Emily DiDonato (born February 24, 1991) is an American model.
    640 votes
  • 8
    543 VOTES

    Nicole Linkletter

    Nicole Linkletter Nathanson (born February 27, 1985) is an American fashion model and the winner of Cycle 5 of America's Next Top Model. Her prizes were a contract with Ford Models, a $100,000 contract with CoverGirl, and her photo appearing in a Ford Fusion (Americas) national advert. She is the first of two America's Next Top Model winners from North Dakota, the second being CariDee English, winner of America's Next Top Model, Cycle 7.
    543 votes
  • 9
    437 VOTES
    Wendy Starland
    Photo: Wendystarland / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
    Wendy Starland is an American singer, songwriter and music producer from Los Angeles. Starland was honored by The Songwriters Hall of Fame, was named VH1's, “Best Emerging Artist,” was featured on Moby's Grammy nominated album, Last Night, and opened for multi-platinum artists, Sheryl Crow and Jack White at the Michigan International Speedway. In addition, Starland discovered and developed nine time Grammy winner, two time Golden Globe winner, and Oscar winner, Lady Gaga.
    437 votes
  • 10
    903 VOTES
    Lily Aldridge
    Photo: Frazer Harrison / Getty images
    Lily Maud Aldridge (born November 15, 1985) is an American model. She is a Victoria's Secret Angel and a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue model, appearing as a rookie alongside Chrissy Teigen and Nina Agdal in 2014 for the cover of the issue's 50th anniversary.
    903 votes
  • 11
    669 VOTES
    Marisa Miller, born on August 6, 1978, in Santa Cruz, California, is a celebrated American model and actress. She rose to international prominence in the late 1990s following her appearances in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, and her work for Victoria's Secret. Her all-American looks and natural appeal quickly garnered her a strong fan base, and she soon became one of the most recognized faces in the modeling industry. Miller's professional journey began at an early age when two Italian modeling agents discovered her at a San Francisco café. From there, she rapidly ascended in the fashion world, working with notable brands such as Marc Jacobs, Ralph Lauren, and Tommy Hilfiger. However, it was her tenure as a Victoria's Secret Angel from 2007 to 2010 that cemented her status as a global icon. Besides modeling, Miller also ventured into acting, making her film debut in the 2013 action thriller R.I.P.D. Despite her fame and success, Miller remained grounded and devoted much of her time to philanthropy. She has been involved with the USO, the American Cancer Society, and the Pedigree Adoption Drive, among other charitable organizations. Furthermore, she used her platform to advocate for healthy body image and self-esteem, becoming a role model for many young women around the world. Marisa Miller's life story serves as an inspiration, highlighting how passion, perseverance, and authenticity can lead to remarkable achievements.
    669 votes
  • 12
    564 VOTES

    Heidi Cortez

    Heidi Cortez (born March 11, 1981) is an American entrepreneur (business owner, model, producer, writer, & manager). In November 2005, Cortez was hired by Howard Stern to be the radio host and co-writer on his Sirius XM satellite channel. On the show, Cortez would read comical, saucy bedtime stories to the listeners at the end of the day. As of August 2006, the segment was canceled. She released her first book Heidi’s Bedtime Stories on November 7, 2006, through Simon & Schuster. The book immediately made the Barnes & Noble's Best Sellers List. In June 2007, the book was published again in paperback. Her acting and modeling career took off internationally in print, including Maxim Magazine, and several TV commercials, and music videos. In 2007–2008 Cortez was cast and appeared on the hit American reality television show Sunset Tan on the E! Network for two seasons, which at the time helped escalate the success of her business, Cabana Tans in Reno, which was one of the largest tanning salons in northern Nevada. She wrote her second book titled, “For Somebody Who Knows Nobody: how to start your modeling career” in 2014.
    564 votes
  • 13
    468 VOTES
    Mircea Monroe (born March 11, 1982) is an American model and actress, known for her roles on the TV series Episodes as Morning Randolph (2011–2017), Hart of Dixie as Tansy Truitt (2011–2015), Impastor as Alexa Cummings (2015–2016) and Sing It! as Stacey Needles (2016). She has also starred in films including Cellular (2004), House of the Dead 2 (2005), Just Friends (2005), The Change-Up (2011) and Magic Mike (2012).
    468 votes
  • Cameron Richardson (born September 11, 1979) is an American producer, actress and model, who portrayed Chloe Carter on the CBS television series Harper's Island.
    395 votes
  • 15
    489 VOTES
    Erin Heatherton
    Photo: fervent-adepte-de-la-mode / flickr / CC-BY 2.0
    Erin Heather Bubley (born March 4, 1989), known professionally as Erin Heatherton, is an American model known for her work as a Victoria's Secret Angel from 2010 to 2013.
    489 votes
  • 16
    1,289 VOTES
    Cindy Crawford
    Photo: Frazer Harrison / Getty Images
    Cindy Crawford, born on February 20, 1966, in DeKalb, Illinois, is an iconic American supermodel who has made a significant impact on the world of fashion. With her trademark mole just above her lip and her striking features, she became one of the most recognizable faces of the 1980s and 1990s, gracing more than 400 magazine covers throughout her career. Her rise to fame began when she was discovered by a local newspaper photographer at the age of 16, leading to her participation in Elite Model Management's Look of the Year contest where she secured the runner-up position. Crawford's modeling career saw her walk the runway for major global brands such as Versace, Calvin Klein, and Chanel, among others. Beyond fashion, she ventured into television as the host of MTV's House of Style, a show that explored the intersection of the fashion industry with popular culture. This venture into broadcasting expanded her reach beyond modeling, establishing her as a versatile figure in the entertainment industry. Additionally, Crawford starred in several high-profile advertising campaigns, including those for Pepsi and Revlon, further solidifying her status as a global fashion icon. Crawford's influence even extends beyond the realms of fashion and entertainment. She has been active in philanthropy, using her platform to support childhood leukemia research after losing her younger brother to the disease. She also co-founded the skincare line Meaningful Beauty and the home goods line Cindy Crawford Home, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit. Despite the numerous roles she has taken on, Crawford's legacy is firmly rooted in her groundbreaking work as a supermodel, setting a precedent for models transitioning into successful careers in business and entertainment. Through her diverse career, Cindy Crawford exemplifies the power of versatility and adaptability in the ever-evolving world of fashion and entertainment.
    1,289 votes
  • 17
    370 VOTES
    Ava Gardner
    Photo: Lexinatrix / Flickr
    Ava Gardner, born on December 24, 1922, in Smithfield, North Carolina, was a force to be reckoned with in the golden era of Hollywood. With her striking beauty and raw talent, she quickly rose to become one of the most iconic actresses of her time. Her journey from a humble upbringing as the youngest of seven children to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood is nothing short of remarkable. Long before her death on January 25, 1990, Gardner left her mark on the film industry. Gardner's career took off when she signed a contract with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) in 1941. She became known for her compelling performances in a string of successful films throughout the 1940s and 50s. Some of her most recognized roles include her Oscar-nominated performance in Mogambo (1953), alongside Clark Gable, and The Night of the Iguana (1964), directed by John Huston. Her acting prowess, combined with her distinctive allure, made her a beloved figure in Hollywood and beyond. Away from the silver screen, Gardner led a colorful life, marked by high-profile relationships and a spirited personality that often challenged societal norms. She was married three times, most notably to Frank Sinatra, with whom she shared a tumultuous bond. Despite the controversies and struggles that often surrounded her personal life, Gardner remained unapologetically herself, living life on her own terms. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of actresses, embodying the timeless appeal of a true Hollywood star.
    370 votes
  • Jacqueline Honulik
    Photo: Metaweb (FB) / Public domain
    The Miss Connecticut USA competition is the pageant that selects the representative for the state of Connecticut in the Miss USA pageant. The state pageant directors are: Crown Productions from 2003 to 2008 Sanders & Associates, Inc., dba- Pageant Associates based in Buckhannon, West Virginia from 2009 to 2017 Five Crown Pageant Productions based in Washington, D.C. from 2018 to 2019 Ewald Productions from 2020Despite a number of semi-finals placements in the 1960s, Connecticut is overall one of the least successful states at Miss USA. From 1969 until 2002, not one Miss Connecticut USA had placed at the national competition. In 2002, this spell was broken by Alita Dawson, who placed 4th runner-up. Dawson was one of three former Miss Connecticut Teen USAs to win the Miss crown (although a former Miss Wisconsin Teen USA also won this competition). This was not until 2013 when Erin Brady became the first Miss USA ever from the state of Connecticut when she was crowned Miss USA 2013. Acacia Courtney of Hamden was crowned Miss Connecticut USA 2019 on January 5, 2019 at The Palace Theatre in Stamford. She represented Connecticut for the title of Miss USA 2019 on May 2, 2019 in Reno, Nevada.
    284 votes
  • Christie Brinkley, born on February 2, 1954, in Monroe, Michigan, is a renowned American model and actress who has made a significant impact in the entertainment industry. Her career took off in the late 1970s when she landed a record 20-year contract with CoverGirl, one of the longest modeling contracts in history. This partnership propelled her to international fame, making her face recognizable across the globe. Beyond her CoverGirl success, Brinkley has appeared on over 500 magazine covers worldwide, including Vogue, Rolling Stone, and Esquire, demonstrating her versatility as a model. Brinkley's influence extends beyond the realm of modeling. She ventured into the world of acting and showcased her talent in various television shows and films. Notably, she had a significant role in National Lampoon's Vacation and its sequel, Vegas Vacation. Brinkley also showcased her theatrical talents on Broadway, participating in the musical Chicago, where she played Roxie Hart. This diverse range of roles highlights Brinkley's versatility as an entertainer, proving her ability to transcend different forms of media. In addition to her entertainment career, Brinkley is also recognized for her entrepreneurship and humanitarian work. She launched her skincare line, Christie Brinkley Authentic Skincare, and eyewear collection, both of which have been successful in the market. Brinkley is also a dedicated environmental activist and animal rights advocate, using her platform to champion for these causes. She has received numerous awards for her charitable efforts, including the Humanitarian Award from the United Nations Environment Programme. Christie Brinkley's remarkable journey from a small-town girl to a global icon is testament to her talent, resilience, and compassion, making her a truly inspirational figure.
    519 votes
  • 20
    394 VOTES
    Born in Illinois, Jenny McCarthy is a multifaceted personality known for her work as an actress, model, television host, author, and screenwriter. Beginning her career as a Playboy model, she swiftly transitioned into television and film, showcasing her versatility and charm. Over the years, she has gained fame not only for her on-screen performances but also for her candidness and wit, which have made her a popular figure in the entertainment industry. McCarthy's acting career took off with her role in MTV's game show Singled Out. In addition to this, she has been part of several other television shows, including her own self-titled show The Jenny McCarthy Show. Her success on television opened doors for her in Hollywood, leading to roles in films such as Dirty Love and Scream 3. Despite being primarily known for her comedic roles, McCarthy's acting prowess extends beyond comedy, evident in her performances in a variety of genres. Apart from her work in entertainment, McCarthy is a well-published author with multiple books to her name. These include memoirs, self-help books, and even children's literature. Her writing often reflects her personal experiences and insights, making them relatable to a wide audience. Moreover, McCarthy is recognized for her advocacy work in autism awareness, a cause close to her heart due to her son's diagnosis. Throughout her career, she has used her platform to raise awareness and promote research about the condition, making significant contributions to the cause.
    394 votes
  • 21
    192 VOTES
    Jennifer Marie Shakeshaft (born December 26, 1984) is an American actress and model living in Los Angeles, California.
    192 votes
  • 22
    335 VOTES
    Teri Harrison
    Photo: Toglenn / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
    335 votes
  • 23
    304 VOTES
    Taylor Cole
    Photo: Jerritt Clark / Getty Images
    Taylor Cole (born April 29, 1984) is an American actress and former fashion model.
    304 votes
  • 24
    262 VOTES
    Tamie Sheffield (born July 27, 1970) is an American film actress, model and former professional wrestler. She was born in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania and graduated from Mechanicsburg Senior High School in 1988. Her birth name was Tammy Weber.
    262 votes
  • 25
    677 VOTES
    Molly Sims is a multi-talented personality in the entertainment industry, best known for her modeling work and acting roles. Born on May 25, 1973, in Murray, Kentucky, Sims had an early inclination towards modeling. Her ambitious spirit led her to drop out of Vanderbilt University in 1993 to pursue a modeling career. This bold move paid off when she was signed by NEXT Model Management, catapulting her into the world of high fashion, where she achieved significant success, including appearing in the coveted Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue for multiple years. Apart from making waves in the modeling industry, Sims also showcased her prowess as an actress. She successfully transitioned from modeling to acting with her breakthrough role as Delinda Deline in the hit television series Las Vegas which aired from 2003 to 2008. This was followed by appearances in several other TV shows and films like Yes Man, The Benchwarmers, and Fired Up!. Her versatility as an actress is impressive, with her roles ranging from comedic performances to dramatic turns. Aside from her professional achievements, Molly Sims is also an active philanthropist. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a dedication to giving back to the community. She is involved with several charities such as Operation Smile, which provides medical procedures for children with facial deformities, and Baby2Baby, which supplies basic necessities to children living in poverty.
    677 votes
  • 26
    218 VOTES
    Jennifer O'Neill
    Photo: Warner Bros. Pictures / Wikimedia Commons
    Jennifer O'Neill (born February 20, 1948) is a Brazilian-American actress, model, author and speaker, known for her role in the 1971 film Summer of '42 and modelling for CoverGirl cosmetics starting in the 1970s.
    218 votes
  • 27
    856 VOTES
    Ali Landry
    Photo: Frazer Harrison / Getty Images
    Ali Germaine Landry (born July 21, 1973) is an American actress, model, and beauty pageant titleholder who won Miss USA 1996. She played Rita Lefleur on the UPN sitcom Eve and was the Doritos Girl in a 1998 Super Bowl commercial. In 1998, she was named by People magazine as one of 50 most beautiful people in the world.
    856 votes
  • 28
    620 VOTES
    Kathy Ireland
    Photo: carrie-nelson / Shutterstock
    Kathy Ireland, born Kathleen Marie Ireland in 1963, is an American model and actress turned entrepreneur and businesswoman. Raised in Santa Barbara, California, Ireland's journey into fame began in high school when she was discovered by an agent from the Elite Model Management at the age of 16. Subsequently, she appeared on covers of numerous renowned magazines, including the coveted Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue for a record-breaking three consecutive years (1989-1991). Her modeling career spanned more than a decade, gracing the runways for top fashion houses and appearing in a variety of television commercials. In addition to her successful modeling career, Ireland demonstrated her versatility by venturing into acting. She made appearances in a number of television series and films, including Melrose Place and National Lampoon's Loaded Weapon 1. Despite her success in front of the camera, Ireland's ambitions extended beyond the entertainment industry. In the mid-90s, she founded Kathy Ireland Worldwide (KIWW), a brand marketing company, which expanded into various industries such as fashion, home furnishings, and even publishing. Ireland's entrepreneurial journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Under her leadership, KIWW became a global powerhouse, with products selling in over 50 countries. Her business acumen and dedication have earned her recognition as one of the 50 most powerful women in U.S. business by Forbes Magazine. Furthermore, Ireland is a noted philanthropist, supporting numerous charitable causes, including the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation and Feed the Children. A dynamic personality, Kathy Ireland's life story is a testament to her resilience, entrepreneurship, and a relentless pursuit of diverse interests.
    620 votes
  • 29
    304 VOTES
    Vanessa Minnillo
    Photo: Vanessa Lachey / Facebook
    Vanessa Minnillo, born on November 9, 1980, in Angeles City, Pampanga, the Philippines, is a multitalented personality known for her contributions to television hosting, acting, and beauty pageantry. Her career began in a blaze of glory when she was crowned Miss Teen USA in 1998, becoming the first individual of Filipino descent to receive this accolity. However, it was her role as a host on MTV's popular video countdown show, Total Request Live, that solidified her place in the limelight. Minnillo's early years were marked by constant relocation, largely due to her father's military career. Despite the challenges, these experiences helped shape her resilience and adaptability, traits that would later prove invaluable in her career. After her parents' divorce, Minnillo and her older brother moved to Turkey with their mother, eventually settling in South Carolina, USA. Her cultural background and diverse upbringing played a significant role in her worldview and approach towards her career. In addition to her hosting duties, Minnillo has also made significant strides in acting. She starred in the popular television series True Beauty, and made guest appearances on shows like 30 Rock and Hawaii Five-0. However, her most notable role was in the movie Disaster Movie, where she showcased her versatility as an actress. Off-screen, Minnillo is equally accomplished. In 2011, she married multi-platinum recording artist Nick Lachey, with whom she shares three children. Vanessa Minnillo's life story is a testament to her determination, talent, and ability to juggle multiple roles with grace and finesse.
    304 votes
  • 30
    532 VOTES
    Rebecca Romijn, a household name in the entertainment industry, has built an illustrious career as an actress and former model. Born on November 6, 1972, in Berkeley, California, Romijn's career trajectory began with her modeling career in the early 1990s. During this time, she graced the covers of renowned magazines like Sports Illustrated, Elle, and Marie Claire, among others. Her striking features and charismatic personality made her one of the most sought-after models of her generation. Romijn's transition from the runway to the screen was seamless. She first gained mainstream recognition for her role as Mystique in the X-Men franchise, a role that showcased her versatility and commitment as an actress. Following her success in X-Men, Romijn went on to demonstrate her acting prowess in other successful films such as The Punisher and Godsend. Her television credits are just as impressive, with significant roles in hit shows like Ugly Betty and The Librarians. Beyond her professional life, Romijn is also known for her personal endeavors. She married actor John Stamos in 1998, though the couple parted ways in 2005. In 2007, she tied the knot with actor Jerry O'Connell and the couple have twin daughters. A strong advocate for animal rights, Romijn has been involved in various charity works throughout her life, demonstrating her commitment not just to her craft, but also to making a difference in the world. From her early days in the fashion industry to her successful acting career and dedicated philanthropy, Rebecca Romijn has proven herself to be a versatile and influential figure in the entertainment world.
    532 votes