TOP 10 • BEAUTY ICONS • 2010s
The decade also saw the rise of Latina and Hispanic beauty in Hollywood, with Ana de Armas showcasing her acting talents in Blade Runner 2049 (© 2017) and gaining the attention of the Hollywood elite. Eiza González emerged as a powerhouse, gaining global recognition with Baby Driver (© 2017) and solidifying her status in A-list action films. The decade debuted Victoria Justice in Victorious (© 2010-2013) and capitalized on the demand for a multi-platform presence, remaining relevant as a musician, actor, and influencer. Evangeline Lilly delivered a captivating performance as Kate Austen in Lost (© 2004-2010), seamlessly balancing vulnerability and strength, making her one of the most compelling characters in the award-winning series. These women personified the new age of entrepreneur, icon, independent, and global. They embraced the digital revolution, proving that influence wasn’t just about acting or modeling but building strong personality brands.
Hannah Palmer gained significant followers throughout the decade and became synonymous with Instagram. Katharina Mazepa and Rachel Cook became “modern muse” symbols, reflecting the evolving nature of celebrity status. Emily Ratajkowski’s presence in fashion and social media made her a modern-day sex symbol while advocating for body positivity and female empowerment. The rise of digital superstars dramatically transformed the landscape, further elevating the influence of social media personalities. Models like Elizabeth Turner, and Romee Strijd gained international fame beyond traditional print and runways. Romee Strijd, continued the legacy of supermodels dominating the decade’s lingerie and fashion industry, while Elizabeth Turner embodied a new era of glamour modeling. This shift marked a decade where achieving global reach through direct digital engagement was more important than dawning the cover of magazines.
Victoria’s Secret superpower ultimately became its kryptonite through a beauty shaming movement highlighting the unrealistic standards set by supermodels. The brand’s provocative advertising strategies were rejected by their target consumers who increasingly focused on body positivity, inclusivity, and diversity. The company faced backlash for its inability to align with this evolving feminist movement, significantly eroding its once-dominant market position. After a 40% stock nosedive in 2018, they announced the closure of 53 stores in the U.S., which led to the resignation of their Chief Marketing Officer, Ed Razek, a year later. The downfall of Victoria’s Secret was underpinned by the #MeToo which spotlighted the systemic sexual abuse and rape culture experienced by women across multiple industries.