Best Supermodels: Who Rules the Runway and Why

If you scroll through Instagram, you’ll see a handful of faces that pop up everywhere – from luxury ads to the red carpet. Those are the best supermodels, the ones brands fight over and agencies brag about. In this guide we’ll name the current top names, break down what makes them so valuable, and give you a few clues if you want to walk that path.

Who’s on the List Right Now?

At the moment the leaderboard looks like this:

  • Kendall Jenner – Consistently the highest paid, thanks to big beauty contracts and a massive social following.
  • Gigi Hadid – A classic runway star who also lands TV gigs and high‑end fashion deals.
  • Bella Hadid – Represents IMG Models, books luxury campaigns, and is praised for her runway walk.
  • Adut Akech – Known for her unique look and strong presence on editorial spreads.
  • Hailey Bieber – Uses her celebrity status to pull in eyewear, fragrance, and fashion endorsements.

These five dominate the news, snag the biggest contracts, and often appear on “most followed on Instagram” lists.

Why Brands Pay Them Big Money

It’s not just about looks. Agencies like IMG, The Society, and Elite track a model’s reach, engagement, and vibe. A supermodel who can draw millions of eyes to a campaign instantly boosts a brand’s sales. That’s why you see numbers like $20‑30 million a year for the top earners. Luxury houses also value a model’s ability to travel, attend events, and stay on camera under pressure.

Another factor is versatility. Kendall, for example, can switch from a high‑fashion runway to a casual street‑style shoot without missing a beat. That flexibility lets agencies book her for multiple projects in a single week, stacking up the income.

Finally, legal and safety awareness matter. The best supermodels understand their contracts, work with reputable agencies, and keep a professional team around them. That reduces risk for brands and keeps the partnership smooth.

So, what can an aspiring model learn from these stars? First, build a solid social presence – brands love numbers you can verify. Second, sign with a reputable agency that can push you into the right market, whether it’s editorial, runway, or commercial. Third, be reliable: show up on time, keep a professional attitude, and protect your image.

In short, the best supermodels earn their spot by mixing striking looks, a strong personal brand, and a business‑savvy mindset. Keep an eye on the names above, watch how they handle deals, and you’ll have a realistic picture of what it takes to join their ranks.

Models 4
By Mason Fairchild 20 September 2025

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