Czech Female Models - Famous Fashion Models from Czech Republic

The Czech Republic, a small yet culturally rich nation in Central Europe, has made an outsized impact on the global fashion industry through its remarkable female models. Known for their striking beauty, versatility, and resilience, Czech models have become synonymous with elegance and innovation on runways and in campaigns worldwide. From the glamorous heights of the '90s supermodel era to the digital age of 2025, these women have not only shaped fashion trends but also challenged norms, broken barriers, and inspired generations. This blog dives into the allure of Czech female models, their contributions to the industry, and why they continue to captivate the world.

Czech female models first gained international prominence in the late 20th century, a time when the fashion world was dominated by a select few names. The fall of the Iron Curtain in 1989 opened doors for Eastern European talent, and Czech women seized the opportunity. Paulina Porizkova, born in 1965 in Prostějov, was among the pioneers. As the first Central European woman to grace the cover of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue in 1984, she shattered regional boundaries and set the stage for others. Her sharp features and confident demeanor made her a standout, earning her a lucrative Estée Lauder contract and cementing her as a global icon.

50+ Czech Female Models List

1. Paulina Porizkova - First Central European on SI Swimsuit Issue cover (1984).
2. Eva Herzigová - Known for the iconic 1994 Wonderbra “Hello Boys” campaign.
3. Karolína Kurková - Former Victoria’s Secret Angel, Vogue cover star.
4. Petra Němcová - Sports Illustrated star, Victoria’s Secret model, survived the 2004 tsunami.
5. Daniela Peštová - Nicknamed “The Chameleon,” Victoria’s Secret Angel, Sports Illustrated cover model.
6. Hana Soukupová - Supermodel with over 80 magazine covers (Vogue, Elle), walked for Victoria’s Secret.
7. Tereza Maxová - High-fashion model for Gucci, Chanel, and founder of a children’s charity.
8. Veronika Vařeková - Eight-time Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue model, worked with Chanel, Guess.
9. Alena Šeredová - Miss Czech Republic 1998 runner-up, modeled in Italy, worked with European brands.
10. Taťána Kuchařová - Miss World 2006, modeled for Versace, Weleda, and Czech fashion houses.
11. Helena Houdová - Miss Czech Republic 1999, modeled for Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, later focused on charity.
12. Linda Vojtová - High-fashion model, walked for Prada, appeared in Vogue and Elle.
13. Hana Jiřičková - Known for campaigns with Gucci, Alexander McQueen, and Vogue covers.
14. Tereza Fajksová - Miss Earth 2012, transitioned into modeling with international exposure.
15. Zdeňka Podkapová - Former gymnast turned model, featured in Playboy and fashion shoots.
16. Markéta Jánská - Playboy Playmate (July 2003), worked in commercial modeling.
17. Krystyna Pyszková - Miss World 2023, modeled in Czech Fashion Week 2024.
18. Natálie Kočendová - Miss Czech Republic 2020, walked in Czech Fashion Week 2024.
19. Elisa Bloksova - Czech Fashion Week 2024 model, Miss Tourism World 2024 finalist.
20. Iva Kubelková - Vice-Miss Czech Republic, modeled and worked as a TV presenter.
21. Lucie Hadašová (Bednářová) - Czech Miss 2007, pursued modeling post-pageant.
22. Eliška Bučková - Česká Miss 2008, modeled and ventured into singing.
23. Andrea Kalousová - Česká Miss World 2015, modeled and appeared on Czech TV.
24. Denisa Dvořáková - Winner of Elite Model Look 2006, worked with Prada, Versace.
25. Simona Krainová - Popular Czech model and TV personality, worked with local brands.
26. Jitka Nováčková - Česká Miss 2011, modeled for Czech fashion campaigns.
27. Agi Lisková - Emerging model, featured in Czech fashion editorials.
28. Anna-Marie Mařáková - Rising star in Czech fashion, known for editorial work.
29. Veronika Fasterová - Erotic and glamour model, Playboy Czech feature (2007).
30. Nikol Švantnerová - Swimsuit model, worked with Czech and international brands.
31. Sarka Hajdúková - Aspiring model and student, known for swimsuit shoots.
32. Petra Černocká - Modeled in the '90s, worked with European designers.
33. Jana Doleželová - Miss Czech Republic 2004, pursued modeling afterward.
34. Kateřina Sokolová - Miss Czech Republic 2007, modeled locally.
35. Gabriela Laškorová - Česká Miss 2013, transitioned into modeling.
36. Michaela Hlaváčková - Miss Czech Republic 2016, worked in fashion shoots.
37. Aneta Vignerová - Miss Czech Republic 2009, modeled and acted.
38. Ivana Trump (née Zelníčková) - Early modeling career before business ventures.
39. Barbora Podzimková - Elite Model Look contestant, worked in high fashion.
40. Michaela Karasová - Emerging Czech model, featured in local campaigns.
41. Kristýna Schicková - Modeled for Czech designers, active in the 2010s.
42. Lucie Kovandová - High-fashion model, worked with international brands.
43. Denisa Domanská - Glamour model, featured in Czech magazines.
44. Monika Leová - Commercial model, known for Czech brand endorsements.
45. Tereza Budková - Walked in Prague Fashion Week, emerging talent.
46. Kateřina Průšová - Miss Czech Republic 2002, modeled post-pageant.
47. Petra Minářová - Worked with Czech and European fashion houses.
48. Lenka Láskorádová - Modeled in the early 2000s, local fame.
49. Martina Gavriely - High-fashion model, worked with Dolce & Gabbana.
50. Silvie Tomčalová - Commercial and editorial model in Prague.

The '90s and early 2000s saw an explosion of Czech talent. Eva Herzigová’s 1994 Wonderbra campaign, with its cheeky “Hello Boys” tagline, became a cultural phenomenon, propelling her to supermodel status. Her statuesque frame and playful charm redefined lingerie modeling, while her work with Versace and Chanel showcased her versatility. Meanwhile, Daniela Peštová, dubbed “The Chameleon” for her ability to transform her look, brought a fresh energy to Sports Illustrated and Victoria’s Secret, proving Czech models could dominate both editorial and commercial spheres.

Top 5 Czech Republic Female Fashion Models

Paulina Porizkova

Born April 9, 1965, in Prostějov, Paulina Porizkova is a Czech-born model, actress, and writer who broke barriers as the first Central European woman on the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue cover in 1984. Discovered in Sweden after her family fled Czechoslovakia’s 1968 invasion, she moved to Paris and then New York, where her career soared. Her 1988 Estée Lauder contract made her the highest-paid model of the time. Known for her sharp cheekbones and candid personality, she’s appeared in films like Anna (1987) and TV shows like Dancing with the Stars. At 59 in 2025, Porizkova remains a vocal advocate for aging gracefully, influencing beauty standards beyond her modeling prime.

Paulina Porizkova

Eva Herzigová

Born March 10, 1973, in Litvínov, Eva Herzigová became a household name with her 1994 Wonderbra “Hello Boys” campaign, a defining moment in '90s fashion. Discovered at 16 in Prague, she moved to Paris, where her 5’11” frame and sultry charm caught the eye of brands like Versace, Dolce & Gabbana, and Chanel. A frequent Vogue cover star, she’s also acted in films like Modigliani (2004). Herzigová’s ability to blend sensuality with sophistication made her a '90s supermodel alongside Naomi Campbell. At 52 in 2025, she remains a fashion staple, embodying Czech elegance.

Karolína Kurková

Born February 28, 1984, in Děčín, Karolína Kurková is a supermodel celebrated as a former Victoria’s Secret Angel (2005–2008) and Vogue cover star. Discovered at 15, she moved to New York, where her blonde locks and vibrant energy earned her accolades from Anna Wintour and Mario Testino. Forbes listed her among the top-earning models in 2007, with $5 million in earnings. Her work spans Louis Vuitton, Dior, and H&M, while her navel-less physique became a unique trademark. At 41 in 2025, Kurková advocates for wellness and sustainable fashion, extending her influence beyond the runway.

Karolína Kurková

Petra Němcová

Born June 24, 1979, in Karviná, Petra Němcová blends modeling with profound humanitarian impact. Discovered at 16 via a talent search, she worked with Victoria’s Secret and Gucci before surviving the 2004 tsunami, which killed her fiancé and left her with a broken pelvis. Her resilience inspired the Happy Hearts Fund, founded in 2005 to rebuild schools post-disaster, now part of All Hands And Hearts. Němcová’s warm smile and 5’10” stature have graced Elle and TV hosting gigs. At 45 in 2025, she’s a beacon of beauty and purpose.

Daniela Peštová

Born October 14, 1970, in Teplice, Daniela Peštová earned the nickname “The Chameleon” for her transformative looks. Discovered at 19 by Madison Modeling Agency, she moved from Prague to Paris and then New York, appearing on Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue covers in 1995, 2000, and 2006. A Victoria’s Secret Angel from 1998–2001, her blonde hair and versatile appeal also landed her L’Oréal campaigns. At 54 in 2025, Peštová’s enduring career highlights her ability to adapt, making her a Czech modeling legend. 

Daniela Peštová

The Czech Signature: Versatility and Grace

What sets Czech female models apart? It’s a blend of natural beauty—often characterized by high cheekbones, expressive eyes, and lithe figures—and an adaptability that allows them to excel across genres. Take Karolína Kurková, a former Victoria’s Secret Angel whose ethereal blonde locks and dynamic presence earned her praise from Vogue editor Anna Wintour as “the next supermodel.” Her ability to shift from high fashion (Yves Saint Laurent, Chanel) to mainstream appeal (Victoria’s Secret) exemplifies the Czech knack for versatility.

This adaptability stems partly from the Czech Republic’s rich cultural heritage. A nation with a history of resilience—through wars, occupations, and political upheaval—has bred women who are not just beautiful but bold and determined. Petra Němcová, for instance, survived the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, clinging to a tree for eight hours despite severe injuries. Her subsequent founding of the Happy Hearts Fund (now part of All Hands And Hearts) reflects a strength that transcends the runway, making her a model of both beauty and compassion.

Breaking Barriers and Redefining Standards

Czech models have consistently pushed boundaries. Eva Herzigová’s Wonderbra ad wasn’t just a marketing triumph—it challenged perceptions of femininity in advertising, blending allure with empowerment. Similarly, Paulina Porizkova’s outspokenness about aging in the industry—she’s been candid about embracing her 50s—has sparked conversations about beauty beyond youth. These women don’t just follow trends; they set them.

Inclusivity has also been a Czech contribution. While the fashion world has historically favored a narrow aesthetic, Czech models have brought diversity in their own way. Karolína Kurková’s lack of a navel (due to a childhood surgery) became a quirky signature rather than a flaw, celebrated by designers like Mario Testino. Meanwhile, newer faces like Hana Soukupová, with her towering 6’1” frame and striking features, have kept Czech talent at the forefront of high fashion, walking for Gucci, Dior, and Victoria’s Secret.

Hana Soukupová

The Modern Era: Influence Beyond the Runway

In 2025, Czech female models are more than just faces—they’re influencers, philanthropists, and entrepreneurs. Petra Němcová’s humanitarian work has inspired a generation, while Tereza Maxová’s foundation supports children in institutional care in the Czech Republic, blending glamour with social good. Social media has amplified their reach, with figures like Krystyna Pyszková—crowned Miss World 2023—using platforms to advocate for education and empowerment alongside their modeling careers.

The digital age has also seen Czech models embrace sustainability and innovation. Karolína Kurková, now a wellness advocate, promotes eco-friendly fashion, aligning with 2025’s push for greener runways. This adaptability ensures their relevance in an industry increasingly focused on purpose-driven branding.

Why Czech Models Matter

So why do Czech female models hold such sway? It’s their ability to merge beauty with substance, tradition with modernity. They bring a European elegance—rooted in Prague’s cobblestone streets and Bohemian artistry—infused with a fearless edge. From Paulina Porizkova’s groundbreaking covers to Eva Herzigová’s iconic campaigns, they’ve shown that modeling isn’t just about posing—it’s about storytelling.

The legacy of Czech models remains vibrant. Emerging talents like Linda Vojtová and Hana Jirickova continue to grace Vogue and runway shows, while veterans like Daniela Peštová inspire through their enduring careers. In a world where fashion evolves rapidly, Czech female models stand as a testament to timeless allure and unyielding spirit, proving that true beauty transcends borders.

Image Source:

1. https://www.whynotmodels.com/index.php/model/hana-soukupova
2. https://newyorklifestylesmagazine.com/articles/2016/06/paulina.html
3. https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Karolina_Kurkova_Shankbone_2009_Metropolitan_Opera.jpg
4. https://www.si.com/more-sports/2004/09/27/daniela-pestova