In celebration of Kate Moss’s 43rd Birthday, we’ve taken a look at some of her most iconic moments.
Kate Moss is one of the most prestigious supermodels of all time. Fact. Rising to fame in the early ‘90s, her face remains recognisable all over the world. She’s had her moments of controversy but also been a coveted cover girl, and after nearly 30 years in the industry, she’s proved why she always comes out on top.
As she inevitably plans one of her incredible parties for her 43rd Birthday (we wish we had an invite!), we chart some of her best moments. From that Calvin Klein ad with Marky Mark, to emerging from the Thames with a cig and glass of champagne on the go, we’re looking at the moments that have established Ms Moss as the coolest chick in fashion.
The Face
While returning from holiday at age 14, Moss was spotted by Storm Models founder Sarah Doukas at JFK Airport. Two years later, she would appear on the cover of seminal fashion publication, The Face. These photos would launch her career and have us all wondering why we weren’t as cool at that age (It’s okay guys, most of us aren’t cool when we’re 14).
Moss and Marky Mark
Moss’s debut Calvin Klein ad established her as one to watch. Shot with buff rapper Marky Mark, aka Mark Wahlberg, the advert saw Moss in provocative positions, sans top. The images sparked backlash over Moss’s weight and the “heroin chic” trend, with then-president Bill Clinton even addressing it. Although the images were controversial, they marked the beginning of Moss’s long relationship with the Calvin Klein brand, which is still going strong.
Sheer Shock
Kate was “freeing the nipple” before Instagram and hashtags were even a thing. In 1993, at just 19, she rocked a knickers-on-nips-out look in a metallic sheer dress to an Elite Model’s party. Still influential over 20 years later, Fleur du Mal announced last year that they would be recreating this classic ‘90s look for their Resort 2017 lineup.
Glasto Goddess
Kate showed us all that you can still look good after three nights in a tent when she attended Glastonbury Festival in 2005 with, then boyfriend, Pete Doherty. Cheering on Babyshambles, she stole the show in hot pants and Hunter wellies, accessorised with a beer and cigarette in hand. Although she’s a notable regular at the Worthy Farm event, it was this look that made “festival chic” a thing. In classic Kate style, she probably rolled out of her tent looking instantly glam, whereas the rest of us struggle in a half-sunken tent in a muddy field fighting over the only mirror and trying to figure out how to successfully use dry shampoo. Sigh.
Golden Girl
As one of GB’s most seasoned supermodels, it was only natural that Moss would take centre stage in the fashion segment of the London 2012 Olympics Closing Ceremony. Soundtracked by the late great David Bowie and leading the rest of the supermodel pack, all eyes were on her as she strutted across the giant Union Jack flag stage. It was fitting that the Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen dress she was wearing was gold, because she is definitely still number one.
Absolutely Fabulous
From talking on television about pulling a diamond necklace from Johnny Depp’s bum crack, to appearing in a Little Britain sketch as Vicky Pollard’s twin sister, Kate certainly enjoys a laugh. And last year she outdid herself with her cameo in the Ab Fab movie. Cue Kate emerging from the River Thames in a full length green sparkly gown with a champagne flute in one hand and a cigarette in the other. Iconic.
Mario’s Muse
No one has captured Kate’s essence quite like photographer Mario Testino. In 2010 the exhibition celebrating their numerous collaborations, “Kate Who?” opened at Phillips de Pury & Company’s London galleries and the Saatchi gallery, and their two decade long friendship was documented in Testino’s 2014 coffee table book dedicated to his muse. What was shown were stunning photographs capturing the spirit and beauty of Kate that we have all come to admire.
