Global icons continued to influence pop culture. Supermodels like Adriana Lima, Miranda Kerr, and Marisa Miller were at the forefront, defined by their striking looks and international appeal. Victoria’s Secret Fashion Shows became massive televised events, showcasing ‘Angels’ as enduring symbols of sensuality. Marisa Miller’s dominance on the cover of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit contributed to the era’s “California girl” archetype. Meanwhile, Cheryl Cole’s rise as a UK pop star and TV personality made her a style icon, reinforcing the influence of British music and celebrity in pop culture. In America, Jennifer Aniston’s portrayal of Rachel Green in Friends (© 1994-2004) made her a style icon, and a transition into romantic comedies solidified her appeal. Nina Dobrev gained massive fame with The Vampire Diaries (© 2009-2017), fueled by the decade’s fascination with supernatural romance. 

Cinematically, the decade celebrated strong yet seductive female leads, with Katherine Heigl and Nina Dobrev making their mark. Heigl became a romantic queen with films like Knocked Up (© 2007) and 27 Dresses (© 2008), helping to redefine the modern rom-com heroine. Halle Berry’s career flourished as Storm in X-Men (© 2000) and her Oscar-winning performance in Monster’s Ball (© 2001). Jessica Alba’s roles in Dark Angel (© 2000) and Fantastic Four (© 2000) cemented her as a sex symbol and superheroine. Jessica expanded her reach by building a successful public trading corporation, The Honest Company. Meanwhile, Megan Fox became a cultural phenomenon with Transformers (© 2007), embodying the ultimate femme fatale. The influence of these women shaped an era and paved the next generation of digital superstars.