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Naomi started takin acting roles as the tender age of five, coinciding with her education in theatre but it was when she was 15 years old that her renowned career in fashion took off.
In 1986 she was discovered as a model by then head of the Synchro talent agency, Beth Boldt.
It wasn’t long until the world began to see Naomi on magazine covers and in fashion shows. And the first major designer to work closely with Naomi was celebrated couturier Azzedine Alaïa, who built a strong bond with her.
READ MORE: Celebrating iconic couturier Azzedine Alaïa with summer dress inspiration you can shop today
Naomi told British Vogue that Azzedine was the father figure she never had, as a result she started calling him ‘Papa’ soon after they met. And over the years, their bond manifested some of the most incredible fashion moments – Naomi as his muse. Famously know for constructing his creations on a model or mannequin, Azzedine’s designs all fit like a glove.
Naomi also built a long-lasting friendship with the late Italian fashion designer Gianni Versace. According to [Italian] Vogue, their ten-year companionship started in 1987 at a dinner in New York. She tells Vogue that Gianni was both a brother and a mentor to her.
Apart from being the muse of these fashion greats and building a legendary modelling career, Naomi has cemented her name in fashion by simply being herself and her far from simple fashion choices. With the seal of approval from the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) in the form of the Fashion Icon award, Naomi has had some impressive fashion moments.
She’s known for her long ultra-sleek tresses but during Paris Fashion Week Men's Naomi debuted a short curly do that was an accessory to her gender-neutral outfit. At the Dior show, Naomi sported head-to-toe pieces from the Dior men’s collection.
At the 2019 Oscar's Vanity Fair party she appeared in a floral backless Alexander McQueen dress.
Attending Marc Jacobs wedding this month, Naomi sparkled in a Balmain polka dot outfit.
Not only is she a contributing editor for British Vogue, according to the CFDA Naomi has graced the covers of more than 500 magazines – and with no signs of retirement yet, it’s safe to say 500 and counting.
British Vogue
GQ
Vanity Fair
...and north of 500 more magazine covers.
Reflecting on her career that spans more than three decades, Naomi relayed her future plans: “My friends are always telling me to slow down and rest but I’m at a point in my career where my vision is crystal clear, and for now I’m on a mission. A mission to nurture the new and next generation. A mission to ensure that my industry - the fashion industry - is a place that's diverse and of equal opportunity and I’m on a mission to change the narrative and perception of the great continent of Africa!”
We look forward to what’s more to come from supermodel and activist, Naomi Campbell.
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