16 Actresses Who Started as High-Fashion Models

16 Actresses Who Started as High-Fashion Models

The runway has often served as a launching pad for many talented women who later conquered Hollywood. These actresses first captivated audiences with their striking looks and presence in the fashion world before showcasing their acting abilities on screen. Their journeys from catwalks to film sets demonstrate how skills developed in modeling—confidence, emotional expression, and camera awareness—can translate beautifully to acting careers.

1. Caitríona Balfe

Before capturing hearts as Claire Fraser in “Outlander,” Caitríona walked runways for Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Givenchy. Her modeling career spanned nearly a decade, making her one of the most successful Irish models internationally.

The leap to acting came when she landed a small role in the film “Super 8” before securing her breakthrough in “Outlander.” Her portrayal of the time-traveling nurse earned her multiple Golden Globe nominations and a dedicated fanbase.

Few fans realize she once shared catwalks with modeling legends like Naomi Campbell. Her recent performance in “Belfast” garnered critical acclaim, cementing her status as an actress with serious dramatic chops.

2. Rosie Huntington-Whiteley

Best known as a Victoria’s Secret Angel and the face of Burberry’s fragrance line, Rosie made waves when she replaced Megan Fox in the “Transformers” franchise. Her striking beauty and statuesque frame made her a natural for high-fashion campaigns with designers like Oscar de la Renta and Versace.

Despite initial skepticism about her acting abilities, Rosie surprised many with her screen presence. She later appeared in “Mad Max: Fury Road,” working alongside acclaimed actors in the action-packed dystopian film.

Beyond modeling and acting, she’s built a successful lingerie and beauty brand. Her entrepreneurial spirit shows how models can leverage their fashion expertise into diverse business ventures.

3. Milla Jovovich

The Ukrainian-born powerhouse began modeling at just 12 years old, gracing over 100 magazine covers before her 20th birthday. Her exotic features and fierce presence made her a favorite of photographers like Richard Avedon and Herb Ritts.

Milla’s breakthrough came with the sci-fi film “The Fifth Element,” where her portrayal of the orange-haired alien Leeloo won fans worldwide. She later dominated the action genre as Alice in the “Resident Evil” franchise, performing many of her own stunts.

Unlike many model-turned-actresses, Milla successfully reinvented herself completely. Most younger fans know her primarily as an action star rather than for her modeling past, a testament to her successful career transition.

4. Amber Valletta

During fashion’s golden age in the ’90s, Amber became a top supermodel, starring on Vogue covers and representing major brands like Versace, Calvin Klein, and Gucci. Her all-American look and versatility made her one of the era’s highest earners.

The transition to acting began with small roles before landing more substantial parts in films like “Hitch” and “Transporter 2.” Television proved to be her strongest medium, with memorable roles in series like “Revenge” and “Blood & Oil.”

Amber’s openness about overcoming addiction has made her a powerful voice for recovery. Her sustainability advocacy has also positioned her as one of fashion’s most environmentally conscious figures, proving her influence extends beyond modeling and acting.

5. Lily Cole

The porcelain-skinned redhead with doll-like features became one of the most recognizable faces in fashion during the 2000s. Lily’s unconventional beauty caught the attention of major brands like Alexander McQueen, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton while she was still a teenager.

While maintaining her modeling career, she pursued education at Cambridge University, studying History of Art. This intellectual foundation perhaps helped her transition to more complex acting roles in films like “The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus” and “Snow White and the Huntsman.”

Beyond entertainment, Lily has become known for her environmental activism and social entrepreneurship. Her platform Impossible.com promotes gift economy principles, showing her commitment to using her influence for positive change.

6. Cara Delevingne

British fashion royalty turned Hollywood sensation, Cara dominated runways for brands like Burberry and Chanel before pursuing acting. Her thick eyebrows and quirky personality made her a standout in the modeling world.

The transition to film came naturally as she landed roles in major productions like “Paper Towns” and “Suicide Squad.” Her performance in the fantasy series “Carnival Row” showcased her range beyond what modeling allowed.

Despite criticism that models can’t act, Cara proved doubters wrong with her dedication to the craft. She continues balancing both careers while being outspoken about mental health and LGBTQ+ rights.

7. Rebecca Romijn

In the 1990s, the statuesque blonde gained recognition modeling for Sports Illustrated and Victoria’s Secret. Standing 5’11” with an athletic build, she was perfect for the swimwear and lingerie campaigns that shaped the decade.

Rebecca’s acting breakthrough came with her role as Mystique in the “X-Men” films, where she underwent grueling makeup sessions to transform into the blue-skinned mutant. The physical demands of the role showcased her dedication to acting beyond her modeling background.

Television roles in “Ugly Betty” and “Star Trek: Discovery” further established her acting credentials. Unlike many who try to distance themselves from their modeling past, Rebecca has embraced her fashion background while building a respected acting career spanning over two decades.

8. Famke Janssen

The Dutch beauty dominated runways for Chanel and Victoria’s Secret before finding fame as a Bond girl in “GoldenEye.” Her modeling career began after moving to the United States, where her statuesque height and striking features quickly caught attention.

Famke’s portrayal of telepathic mutant Jean Grey/Phoenix in the X-Men franchise showcased her range as an actress. She balanced vulnerability and power in a role that required significant emotional depth beyond what modeling had demanded.

Unlike many model-turned-actresses, Famke pursued formal training at Columbia University and the HB Studio. This education, combined with her natural screen presence, allowed her to build a lasting career that includes directing and writing, proving her talents extend well beyond her striking appearance.

9. Emily Ratajkowski

Rising to fame after appearing in Robin Thicke’s controversial “Blurred Lines” music video, Emily leveraged her sudden visibility into a successful modeling career. Her distinctive features and confidence landed her campaigns with brands like DKNY and appearances in Sports Illustrated.

The transition to acting began with a supporting role in “Gone Girl” alongside Ben Affleck, where she played a college student involved with the main character. She has since appeared in various films including “I Feel Pretty” and “Cruise.”

Beyond entertainment, Emily has become known for her outspoken feminist views. Her book “My Body” explores the complexities of being a beauty symbol while advocating for women’s rights, demonstrating her desire to be recognized for more than just her appearance.

10. Olga Kurylenko

Discovered in Moscow at 13, the Ukrainian-born beauty quickly rose to prominence, becoming a staple in fashion capitals around the globe. By 18, she was featured on the covers of Elle and Vogue, solidifying her status with luxury brands.

Olga’s acting career gained momentum when she was cast as Bond girl Camille Montes in “Quantum of Solace.” Her intense performance opposite Daniel Craig showcased abilities that went far beyond just looking good on camera.

Fluent in Russian, English, and French, Olga has built an international acting career spanning Hollywood blockbusters and European art films. Her work with directors like Terrence Malick in “To the Wonder” demonstrates her commitment to artistic projects that challenge her as an actress rather than just capitalize on her beauty.

11. Jaime King

Known professionally as James King during her modeling days, Jaime conquered the fashion world as a teenager in the mid-1990s. Her all-American look and adaptability made her a favorite for designers like Chanel and Alexander McQueen, while her distinctive features graced numerous magazine covers.

The switch to acting came after personal struggles with addiction, which she overcame before landing roles in films like “Pearl Harbor” and “Sin City.” Television eventually provided her greatest success with the lead role in “Hart of Dixie.”

Jaime has been refreshingly candid about the dark sides of modeling at a young age. Her advocacy for endometriosis awareness and body positivity has made her a role model beyond her entertainment career, showing how former models can use their platforms for meaningful advocacy.

12. Jessica Hart

The Australian beauty with her signature gap-toothed smile became one of the most recognizable faces in fashion during the 2000s. Jessica’s breakthrough came when she won a modeling competition at 15, leading to contracts with major brands and a coveted spot modeling for Victoria’s Secret.

While less established in acting than others on this list, Jessica has made appearances in films and television shows. Her role in the 2017 film “Reef Break” showcased her interest in transitioning to acting while maintaining her modeling career.

Jessica’s entrepreneurial ventures include her skincare line LUMA Beauty, demonstrating how models can leverage their industry knowledge. Her authentic social media presence, sharing both glamorous shoots and motherhood moments, has helped her build a loyal following beyond traditional modeling.

13. Lara Stone

With her curvier figure and signature gap-toothed smile, the Dutch model challenged fashion’s size-zero norms, landing exclusive Calvin Klein contracts and appearing in all the major fashion magazines.

Her acting career has been more selective than extensive, with notable appearances in short films and supporting roles. The 2016 film “In Dubious Battle” directed by James Franco featured Lara in a small but memorable part.

Lara’s openness about her struggles with alcoholism and body image has made her a relatable figure in an industry often criticized for its superficiality. Her willingness to discuss these issues has helped change conversations around mental health in modeling, showing the human side behind the glamorous façade.

14. Chanel Iman

Named after the iconic fashion house, Chanel seemed destined for modeling greatness from birth. By her teenage years, she was walking runways for the biggest designers and became one of the youngest Victoria’s Secret Angels at just 19.

The transition to acting began with small roles before landing more substantial parts in films like “Dope” and “Mad Families.” Her natural charisma in front of the camera translated well to acting, though she continues to balance both career paths.

As one of the most successful Black models of her generation, Chanel has spoken about diversity challenges in both modeling and acting. Her persistence in both industries has helped open doors for other women of color, making her influence extend beyond her personal career achievements.

15. Kate Bosworth

Though her modeling career was briefer than others on this list, Kate’s striking different-colored eyes (one blue, one hazel) made her memorable in campaigns for Calvin Klein and other brands in her teens. Her unique look helped her stand out in an industry full of beautiful faces.

Kate’s acting breakthrough came with the surfing film “Blue Crush,” where her athletic abilities and screen presence earned critical praise. She later balanced mainstream roles in films like “Superman Returns” with independent projects that showcased her range.

Unlike many who started in modeling, Kate has fully established herself as an actress first in public perception. Her fashion background now serves primarily to enhance her red carpet appearances and designer collaborations, rather than defining her professional identity.

16. Alexa Chung

The British fashion icon began modeling as a teenager before becoming known for her distinctive personal style that influenced a generation. Though never a traditional runway model, Alexa’s work with brands like Mulberry and Madewell made her a fashion industry fixture.

Her transition wasn’t to traditional acting but to television presenting, where her natural wit and charm made her successful on shows like “Popworld” and “It’s On with Alexa Chung.” This media presence allowed her to showcase personality dimensions that modeling alone couldn’t express.

Alexa eventually returned to fashion as a designer rather than just a face, launching her eponymous clothing line. Her career evolution demonstrates how modeling can be a starting point for creative individuals to explore various aspects of entertainment and design.