Side-By-Side Pics Of The Most Legendary '60s Models In Their Heyday And Decades Later
The '60s were defined by one of the world's largest cultural shifts. Mod fashion popularized unique silhouettes, bold haircuts, and bright clothing, while consumers started to experiment with their appearances more than ever before. As the vibrant Mod movement made room for endless beauty experimentation, a new generation of fashion icons emerged, and models were able to redefine the industry.
While some celebrity outfits from the '60s defined the era's style, fashion models became just as influential. Models even started to influence the music scene, not only through their on-again, off-again relationships with musicians, but also through their fashion choices, which changed the way singers dressed. The '60s were an exciting time for the beauty realm, and it was a golden age of the fashion model. As models became celebrities in their own right, they paved the way for the rise of the supermodel.
Decades later, many of the era's most legendary models are unrecognizable. While some retired from modeling after the '60s, pursuing careers in film or design instead, others stepped away from the spotlight altogether. Looking at side-by-side photos of these legendary '60s models highlights just how much they've changed, but they still look amazing.
Twiggy still draws attention to her beautiful big eyes
Twiggy was recognized for her sleek pixie cut, fake eyelashes, and dark eyeliner in the '60s. She shot to fame as a teen after the Daily Express dubbed her "The Face of '66." After retiring from modeling to become a fashion designer, Twiggy took a step away from the limelight that left us wondering: What does legendary '60s model Twiggy look like now? At 76, while attending the 2026 Girls On Film Awards, the former model wore a navy-and-white tailored ensemble that suggested she had maintained her signature androgynous aesthetic. Twiggy also still wears eyeliner, but this time, it's blue.
Jean Shrimpton looked almost unrecognizable after retirement
Jean Shrimpton was once considered "the face of the '60s." Shrimpton, also known as "The Shrimp," was one of the decade's leading cover girls who was recognized for rocking miniskirts and embodying the Swinging London movement. Shrimpton moved to the English countryside and retired from the limelight in the '70s. However, decades later, in 1998, the former supermodel was spotted at an event looking remarkably different. A gray lob had replaced her signature heavy fringe, and she wore a casual outfit, complete with a vibrant turquoise jacket and a hot pink handbag.
Peggy Moffitt maintained her signature look
Peggy Moffitt was best known for her avant-garde style and distinct appearance. Throughout the '60s, she donned a razor-sharp bowl cut and doll-inspired makeup. While she wore bold pieces on the runway, there was no denying that Moffitt had a unique approach to her personal style, too. Moffitt cut her glossy black hair into her signature hairstyle throughout her life. While the majority of her appearance was the same, at the "Decades: A Century Of Fashion" book party in 2012, she swapped her dark winged eyeliner for fake eyelashes and a smokey gray-blue eyeshadow.
Veruschka von Lehndorff still has it
With her side-swept blond locks and regal allure, Veruschka von Lehndorff is best remembered as a legendary '60s model for her elegant poise. Her angelic appearance was contrasted by her determined attitude, and it was her resilience that led to her retirement from modeling in the '70s. It's hard not to remember iconic '60s model Veruschka, given her uniquely ethereal look. In 2015, at the "Nobody Wants the Night" premiere, she took the red carpet by storm. The former model posed wearing a medieval-style metallic shawl and a statement silver headpiece that featured draping tassels.
Naomi Sims understood less is more
Due to her international success in the late '60s, Naomi Sims is often viewed as the world's first Black supermodel. Despite facing racism throughout her career, when she was booked, Sims' striking presence embodied the qualities of a high-fashion model. Pictured posing for her 1969 fashion feature for Vogue, she wore a fur trim Mod-style jacket and her slicked-back bun was decorated with a gold headpiece. When she wasn't on set, Sims embraced a slightly more natural look. In a 1983 portrait she wore an elegant short hairstyle with a bold red lip.
Marisa Berenson is still close to the fashion scene
Marisa Berenson is the granddaughter of renowned designer Elsa Schiaparelli. With her vibrant wardrobe and doll-inspired eyeshadow, she had an iconic modeling career throughout the '60s. Her Mod aesthetic even earned her the nickname "the Queen of the Scene" by Yves Saint Laurent. Over the years, Berenson has maintained a close relationship with the Schiaparelli brand. In 2026, she arrived at the Schiaparelli show during Paris Fashion Week wearing a significantly darker yet chic ensemble. While she kept her bob, Berenson opted for soft curls and a honey-blond shade.
Pat Cleveland is still experimenting with fashion
Pat Cleveland emerged as an iconic '60s model after she was scouted by a Vogue editor on the subway. After having had enough of the racial discrimination in the U.S., Cleveland moved to Paris, where she started modeling for fashion giants like Karl Lagerfeld. She quickly became a makeup artist's dream, favored for her unique facial features –- including her thin, arched eyebrows. In 2026, Cleveland attended Gucci's show during New York Fashion Week. Her unique leather shrug, complete with a fur trim, proved she was still willing to push fashion boundaries, even in her 70s.
Cybill Shepherd went on to have a successful acting career
Cybill Shepherd may be best known for her starring role in "Moonlighting," but before she was winning Golden Globe Awards, Shepherd was a legendary fashion model. She landed several magazine covers and even earned the title "Model of the Year" in 1968. She was considered the American it-girl, and her dimples and blond locks gave her a youthful glow. As of 2026, Shephard has established herself as an incredibly successful actor, writer, and producer. While the former model has taken to a brighter makeup look, featuring blush and red lipstick, her wide smile remains the same.