Jean Shrimpton: The Original Supermodel of the Swinging Sixties

Jean Shrimpton, born in 1942 in Buckinghamshire, England, is widely considered one of the first supermodels and a true fashion icon of the 1960s. With her delicate features, long legs, and effortless charm, she redefined the image of the modern woman and helped usher in a new era of style and culture.

Shrimpton began modeling in her late teens and quickly rose to fame through her work with legendary photographer David Bailey. The two formed a creative and romantic partnership that fueled much of the visual energy of “Swinging London.” Her look was fresh, natural, and unpretentious, in stark contrast to the heavily styled glamour of the 1950s.

She appeared on the covers of Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and countless international magazines, and became the face of a generation. Jean’s presence helped launch the miniskirt into the mainstream, especially after she famously wore one to the 1965 Melbourne Cup in Australia, causing global headlines and challenging conservative fashion norms.

Despite her massive success, Shrimpton disliked the fame and superficiality of the fashion world. She left modeling in the early 1970s and eventually opened a countryside hotel with her husband. Today, she’s remembered not only for her beauty but for her quiet influence on fashion and culture.