She burst onto the fashion scene in the 1980s and remains one of the most legendary supermodels of all time
Born in Czechoslovakia and raised in Sweden, model and writer Paulina Porizkova is amongst the most recognisable faces of the 1980s and 1990s. One of the original supermodels, Porizkova has starred in countless campaigns, graced numerous Vogue covers, and walked the runways for the most major players in the fashion industry. And that’s before we even mention how, in 1988, she scored the highest-paying modelling contract of the time with Estée Lauder.
Today, at 57, Porizkova still dabbles in modelling and for our February - March 2023 issue, she is Vogue Scandinavia’s latest cover star. Porizkova is also a published author (her book, No Filter: The Good, the Bad, and the Beautiful, came out in 2022) and an occasional motivational speaker known for her honest and encouraging output on Instagram.
Honouring Porizkova’s illustrious modelling career, Vogue Scandinavia looks back at her most iconic runway moments.
Calvin Klein autumn/winter 1981
Photo: Getty
One of Porizkova’s first major runway appearances was for Calvin Klein’s autumn/winter 1981 showcase in New York. Donning an oversized, belted wool coat and suede boots, the then 16-year-old Porizkova quickly became the model du jour.
Donna Karan autumn/winter 1985
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In 1985, 20-year-old Porizkova strutted down the runway at Donna Karan’s autumn/winter 1985 fashion show in New York wearing a black turtleneck dress paired with an oversized, cropped shirt and a typical 1980s cinched waist. It was Porizkova’s first gig for Donna Karan, kicking off many catwalk appearances and campaigns for the legendary designer.
Perry Ellis spring/summer 1987
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In 1986, Porizkova charmed again in New York, this time at Perry Ellis’ spring/summer 1987 show. Sporting a quintessential 1980s look, Porizkova wore a charcoal trouser suit with power shoulders teamed with a crisp white shirt and lemon yellow gloves.
Donna Karan spring/summer 1987
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Later in the summer of 1986, Porizkova appeared in Donna Karan’s spring/summer 1987 fashion show at the designer’s studio in New York City. In a beautiful A-line dress complete with a chiffon scarf and ballet flats, Porizkova was the epitome of elegance.
Oscar de la Renta spring/summer 1987
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The summer of 1986 was a busy time for Porizkova, and at Oscar de la Renta’s spring/summer 1987 show in New York, she emerged in another classic 1980s ensemble. This time, it was a power skirt suit paired with a striped shirt and a matching headpiece. The collection was a huge success, lauded for its sophisticated, modern and feminine designs.
Calvin Klein spring/summer 1988
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In 1987, Porizkova stunned at another Calvin Klein fashion show. At the American brand’s spring/summer 1988 spectacle, Porizkova appeared donning a long-sleeved, shimmery lace mini dress with a square neckline.
Calvin Klein spring/summer 1990
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At the turn of the decade, with Calvin Klein in its golden age, Porizkova’s career was in full swing too. She was already a regular at the designer’s fashion shows, and at the spring/summer 1990 spectacle, Porizkova was clad in the ultimate classic: the little black dress.
Donna Karan spring/summer 1990
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Appearing on Donna Karan’s spring/summer 1990 collection runway, Porizkova didn’t just don a sleek outfit; she also flaunted her new hairstyle, complete with a 1970s-style fringe. Wearing an embroidered, loose skirt suit with a matching scarf, Porizkova resembled a young Jane Birkin.
Jiri Kalfar autumn/winter 2018
Photo: @paulinaporizkov
In 2018, Porizkova made a glorious comeback to the runway, closing Czech designer Jiri Kalfar’s autumn/winter 2018 fashion show at London Fashion Week. The collection was aptly titled ‘The Return of the Queen’, signalling that Porizkova was back, better than ever. Donning a gilded, embroidered dress swathed in sequins, Porizkova’s ethereal ensemble was perfect for her return.
Jiri Kalfar autumn/winter 2019
Photo: Getty
In 2019, Porizkova walked for Jiri Kalfar again. This time, it was for the designer’s autumn/winter show at London Fashion Week. Donning a head-to-toe Ferrari red look comprising a silk turtleneck blouse, tulle and lace ruffled skirt and over-the-knee boots, Porizkova’s flamboyant, second appearance after a break from modelling was another one to remember.