Forbes has released its annual list of the highest-paid models in the world, highlighting the impressive careers of top models from the Hadid sisters to Kendall Jenner and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley. These models are not only household names but also key players in the modeling industry, working with top brands and model agencies globally.
Doutzen Kroes, the face of Piaget and L'Oréal Cosmetics, earned £6.4 million in 2018, showcasing how a strong modeling career can be both lucrative and influential. Joan Smalls, tied in earnings with Bella Hadid at £6.8 million, demonstrates the value of experience on international runways, with contracts from Moschino to Estée Lauder. Bella Hadid, the youngest Hadid sister, has similarly capitalized on high-profile deals with Dior Beauty, Tag Heuer, and Bulgari.
Gigi Hadid earned £7.5 million, thanks to collaborations with Reebok, Messika Jewellery, Vogue Eyewear, and Maybelline, along with her ongoing partnership with Tommy Hilfiger. Gisele Bündchen, who remains one of the most iconic models, made £8 million through endorsements and her bestselling autobiography, while Cara Delevingne, now balancing acting and modeling, also earned £8 million with campaigns for Puma, Burberry, Tag Heuer, and Rimmel.
British top-model Rosie Huntington-Whiteley pulled in £9 million this year, boosted by her Marks & Spencer lingerie line and her beauty website, while American favorite Chrissy Teigen earned £9 million from TV, cookbooks, accessories, and modeling promotions. Karlie Kloss came in at £10.3 million, representing Estée Lauder, Adidas, Swarovski, and serving as host for Project Runway.
Finally, Kendall Jenner tops the list as the highest-paid model in the world, earning around £18 million. From her contracts with Adidas, Calvin Klein, and Estée Lauder to selective runway appearances including Burberry and Victoria’s Secret, Kendall’s career illustrates the modern model’s potential to combine brand endorsements with strategic modeling engagements. Across these careers, professional guidance from model agencies has been crucial in maximizing earnings, securing contracts, and building global recognition.
