Helena Christensen
Helena Christensen is a well known Danish model and photographer, celebrated for her work as a former Victoria’s Secret Angel and a beauty queen. She co-founded and served as the original creative director for Nylon magazine. Christensen’s career began with her winning the Miss Universe Denmark title in 1986 and representing Denmark in the Miss Universe 1986 pageant. She gained further recognition in the Look of the Year 1987 competition, where she was a finalist. Christensen’s modeling career took off in Paris, leading to her becoming one of the leading figures in the fashion industry during the 1990s.
Christensen’s rise to fame was marked by her appearance in the music video for Chris Isaak’s “Wicked Game,” which received significant acclaim and recognition. She became a prominent face in the fashion world, appearing on the covers of major magazines like Vogue, Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, and W, and featuring in campaigns for high-profile brands such as Revlon, Chanel, Versace, Lanvin, Prada, Sonia Rykiel, Hermès, Valentino, and Karl Lagerfeld. Christensen’s work with Victoria’s Secret as one of the original “Angels” further solidified her status in the modeling industry.
Helena Christensen has collaborated with renowned photographers like Peter Lindbergh, Herb Ritts, and Patrick Demarchelier has produced iconic images that have defined fashion photography. Collaborations with fashion designers such as Gianni Versace, Karl Lagerfeld, and John Galliano have seen her bring their creative visions to life on the runway and in print. Christensen’s partnerships with fellow supermodels, including Claudia Schiffer, Naomi Campbell, and Cindy Crawford, particularly in the 1990s, epitomized the era’s supermodel phenomenon.
In addition to modeling, Christensen co-founded Nylon magazine, launched her own clothing line, and created a lingerie collection for Triumph. Her photography work has been featured in exhibitions and publications, demonstrating her artistic talent beyond modeling.