While beauty is in the eye of the beholder, there are some whose noteworthy looks have surpassed the test of time. Hollywood's most iconic faces, like Marilyn Monroe and Sophia Loren, have been renowned for their glamour and beauty. But our exploration goes beyond the superficial as we delve into the lives and legacies of these remarkable women. So, join us on this exclusive journey and discover the stories that prove these women's beauty is not only skin deep.
Michelle Pfeiffer
She's a Hollywood icon whose talent and beauty have captured the hearts of millions. A leading lady of the '80s and '90s, she gained recognition for breaking the mold of pretty-girl roles and tackling more serious and complex characters. Her memorable supporting role in Scarface helped catapult her to fame and opened doors to more challenging opportunities. Feiffer's beauty is unique, with her delicate features and captivating gaze leaving a lasting impression.
As one writer put it, her beauty is so mesmerizing that you'll find yourself pausing mid-conversation to marvel at her elegance.
Elizabeth Hurley
Elizabeth Hurley is a fashion and beauty icon whose style and grace have made her a household name. She first captured the world's attention as the stunning girlfriend of Hugh Grant during the heyday of his career. Her iconic black Versace dress, held together by safety pins, became a pop culture sensation and helped establish Versace as a major fashion brand. With no prior modeling experience, she landed a coveted contract as a spokesmodel for Estée Lauder, cementing her status as a beauty icon.
In Hollywood, Hurley has showcased her talents in iconic films like Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery and Bedazzled.
Claudia Cardinale
Claudia Cardinale's beauty and acting skills have captivated audiences for decades. Winning the "Most Beautiful Italian Girl in Tunisia" contest was just the beginning of her illustrious career, which included modeling and acting offers. Despite her early struggles with Italian, her talent and charm landed her numerous roles in films like The Leopard and 8½. Although her raspy voice and heavy accent required dubbing early in her career, Cardinale's beauty spoke for itself.
Beyond the screen, she is a passionate advocate for women's rights, serving as a UNESCO goodwill ambassador for the defense of women in 2000.
Sharon Tate
Sharon Tate may be remembered for her untimely and tragic death, but she was also an up-and-coming actress who left her mark on the silver screen. She captivated audiences with her performances in both comedic and dramatic roles, earning her critical acclaim as a promising talent. Unfortunately, she was also eight months pregnant with their child when the Manson Family brutally murdered her. Her beauty and life were cut way too short.
Tate's legacy is not just one of tragedy but also of her remarkable talent and the impact she made in the industry during her short time in the spotlight.
Kim Basinger
Kim Basinger began her career as a successful model in the 1970s and later turned to acting in Los Angeles. She made her debut in the drama Hard Country and went on to star in several made-for-television films. Basinger's breakthrough came as a Bond girl in Never Say Never Again, which cemented her status as a Hollywood icon. She continued to appear in many films throughout the 1990s, earning critical acclaim!
Once the it-girl of Hollywood, she rarely acts anymore but prefers to stay out of the limelight and focus her time on animal rights activism.
Jaclyn Smith
Actress and businesswoman Jaclyn Smith rose to fame as the stunning Kelly Garrett in the hit TV series Charlie's Angels. Her undeniable beauty and talent captivated audiences, propelling her and her co-stars to become pop culture icons. Smith's career continued to thrive beyond the series, with numerous TV films and mini-series to her credit. Her beauty and charm have also caught the attention of many admirers, leading her to be married four times.
Now she is 77 years old and the boss of a multi-million-dollar skincare and clothing business. She is so much more than a pretty face, but a successful entrepreneur too!
Audrey Hepburn
Celebrities come and go, but some icons never fade away. One such legend is Audrey Hepburn, a timeless beauty who captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. Best known for her stunning performance in Roman Holiday and Breakfast at Tiffany's, Audrey's unique looks and undeniable talent propelled her to fame. Throughout her career, she won numerous awards and accolades, including an Academy Award, a BAFTA, and a Golden Globe. And there is no doubt everyone wished they looked like her.
Beyond her on-screen success, Audrey was also a dedicated humanitarian who worked tirelessly to make the world a better place. Although she passed away in 1993, her influence can still be felt today, making her a true icon of style, grace, and compassion.
Elizabeth Taylor
Few Hollywood icons have had the lasting impact of Elizabeth Taylor. Born in England to American parents, Elizabeth's striking beauty was apparent from a young age. Her unique genetic mutation, which caused two rows of eyelashes, only added to her allure. She became one of the most sought-after actresses in the industry, starring in numerous hit movies like Cleopatra and Giant. She wasn't all beauty, though; her work beyond acting was just as powerful.
Later in life, Elizabeth turned her attention to philanthropy, advocating for Jewish causes and promoting AIDS awareness. What an absolute queen.
Charlize Theron
Charlize Theron's journey to Hollywood stardom is as unique as it is inspiring. Growing up on a farm in South Africa, Charlize dreamed of becoming a ballet dancer, but her natural beauty also caught the attention of modeling scouts. Eventually, she focused on acting, and her talent quickly shone through. In 2003, Charlize won an Academy Award for her stunning portrayal of serial killer Aileen Wuornos in the movie Monster.
Since then, she's become one of the most respected actresses in the industry, known for her versatility and dedication to her craft. Charlize is a true inspiration, proving that beauty is great, but hard work and talent can take you anywhere.
Tyra Banks
Few models have had as much of an impact on the fashion industry as Tyra Banks. After starting her career with Elite Model Management, Tyra quickly made a name for herself as one of the most sought-after models in the industry. She graced the covers of numerous magazines, including Vogue, GQ, and Victoria's Secret. But Tyra's impact wasn't limited to the runway. She also became a beloved television personality, hosting and executive producing the hit show America's Next Top Model.
Today, Tyra Banks continues inspiring new models, showing that beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Keep scrolling to discover more about the incredible women who have left their mark on the world!
Marilyn Monroe
There's only one Marilyn Monroe, and everyone loves her! She's the ultimate icon of glamour, beauty, and sex appeal, and every woman dreams of having just a fraction of her star power. With her sultry voice, hourglass figure, and captivating smile, Marilyn was the embodiment of Hollywood glamour in the 1950s. Her movies like The Seven Year Itch and How to Marry a Millionaire are still watched and adored today.
Not to mention how legendary her fashion choices, her blonde bombshell hair, and her iconic white dress have been in pop culture.
Catherine Deneuve
Catherine Deneuve is a true icon of French cinema and beauty. Her captivating presence on screen and stunning looks have made her a role model for generations of women. From her early beginnings in the film industry to her current status as a cultural icon, Deneuve has proven time and again that she is a force to be reckoned with. However, she recently got herself into some controversy regarding the #MeToo movement.
She shared a letter denouncing the movement and calling it a witch hunt which wasn't very aligned with the feminist values people would assume she would have.
Greta Garbo
Greta Garbo was known for her striking beauty and enigmatic persona. Her deep-set eyes and sharp features captivated audiences and made her an icon of glamour in the 1920s and 30s. But her talent went beyond her looks, as she also had a natural gift for acting that shone through in each of her performances. Fans still remember her for her unforgettable roles in classics like Anna Karenina and Grand Hotel.
With such a legendary career, it's no wonder that Garbo is still celebrated today as one of the greatest and most beautiful actresses of all time.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan
Aishwarya Rai's stunning beauty and elegant charm have captured the hearts of millions. Known as the "Queen of Bollywood," the Indian actress has won numerous awards for her performances and has been a favorite among fashion designers for her impeccable style. Despite her global fame, Aishwarya has managed to maintain a grounded and private persona, focusing on her family life and her work in the entertainment industry while dabbling in advocacy.
Her beauty is not just limited to her looks, as she is also known for her philanthropic work, including supporting the United Nations' HIV/AIDS program and working with Smile Train, an international children's charity that provides free surgeries for cleft lip and palate.
Vivien Leigh
Vivien Leigh was a stunning actress who had to fight to be taken seriously for her talent rather than her looks. Despite her struggles, she went on to star in some of the most iconic films of all time, including Gone with the Wind and A Streetcar Named Desire. While she is most known for her work in film, she actually had a more extensive career on the stage. Unfortunately, she battled tuberculosis for much of her life.
The disease ultimately claimed her life in 1967, but her iconic place in Hollywood remains, and her beauty is timeless.
Ursula Andress
Ursula Andress is a gorgeous Swiss actress who became a household name in the 1960s after playing the role of Honey Ryder in the James Bond film Dr. No. Her iconic scene of emerging from the ocean in a white bikini became an instant classic and solidified her place in pop culture history. Despite her limited English skills, she continued to appear in Hollywood films throughout the 1960s and 1970s.
Andress also graced the pages of Playboy magazine in 1965, further cementing her status as a sex symbol of the era.
Ann-Margret Olsson
Ann-Margret Olsson is a Swedish-American actress, singer, and dancer. She rose to fame in the 1960s and 1970s as a multi-talented performer. She started as a successful recording artist and transitioned into acting with her breakout role in Bye Bye Birdie and had a recurring role in Law and Order: SVU and Ray Donovan. She was even so popular in Japan during the '60s that she had her own comic book series!
Even today, five decades after her debut, she is still recognized for her beauty, talent, and lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
Gene Tierney
With piercing blue eyes and a stunning beauty that captivated audiences, Gene Tierney was one of a kind. She wasn't necessarily a household name, but she was definitely one of the most gorgeous ladies of her time! She even helped create the famous "femme fatale" character that was so common during the film-noir era of the 1940s and 1950s. Her role in Leave Her to Heaven even earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.
She passed away later in life, only two weeks away from her 71st birthday. However, she was a trendsetter and definitely a beauty that deserves to be on this list!
Jayne Kennedy
Jayne Kennedy is a true trailblazer, breaking barriers in the entertainment industry as the first African-American woman to win the Miss Ohio title. Her beauty and talent led to a successful modeling, acting, and sportscasting career, even appearing on The NFL Today, making her a recognizable face on television throughout the 1970s and 1980s. In addition to her on-screen success, Kennedy made waves in the fitness world by producing popular exercise videos.
Despite facing personal challenges, including divorce, she has remained a beloved icon, inspiring generations with her grace, poise, and determination to succeed in an industry that was not always welcoming to people of color.
Ava Gardner
Ava Gardner was more than just a stunning face in Hollywood. The South Carolina native was known for her sultry voice and captivating performances in films like The Killers, Show Boat, and Mogambo, which earned her an Academy Award nomination. Her personal life was just as fascinating as her career, with marriages to some of Hollywood's biggest names, including Frank Sinatra and Mickey Rooney. But she was also influential in her activism.
Gardner was also a trailblazer in her own right, breaking down racial barriers by advocating for the desegregation of Hollywood's studios and helping to form the Screen Actors Guild.
Barbara Eden
Barbara Eden's portrayal of the bubbly, mischievous genie in I Dream of Jeannie has become iconic in pop culture. The show was a hit in the '60s and remains a beloved classic to this day. But did you know that Eden was also a talented singer and dancer? She showcased her talents in numerous musicals, including The Sound of Music and The King and I. Though gorgeous, there's much more to her than her stunning looks!
If you're ready to hear about other powerful and talented women who have made their mark, keep reading for more fascinating stories!
Lauren Bacall
This legendary actress is none other than Lauren Bacall. From her iconic role in To Have and Have Not to her Academy Award-nominated performance in The Mirror Has Two Faces, Bacall left an indelible mark on Hollywood. But she was more than just a talented actress; she was a feminist icon and a philanthropist. Bacall worked with numerous charities, including the National Kidney Foundation, and was awarded the Kennedy Center Honors in 1997.
Apart from being a successful actress, this Hollywood starlet also had a passion for photography. She took thousands of photographs throughout her life, many of which were published in magazines and some even displayed in galleries.
Barbara Parkins
Barbara Parkins' role in Valley of the Dolls became her most famous, earning her legions of fans around the world. But did you know that she also appeared in a number of popular TV shows throughout the '70s and '80s, including The Love Boat and Fantasy Island? Her performances on these shows showed that her acting prowess extended beyond the big screen. She even became a skilled photographer and exhibited her work in galleries.
Parkins began her photography career in the early 1980s, capturing striking black-and-white portraits of her friends and colleagues in the entertainment industry.
Sophia Loren
Sophia Loren is one of Italy's most adored stars. She is absolutely stunning and exudes charm and beauty. She started acting at 14 years old and quickly became one of the most sought-after actresses in the world. Loren has appeared in over 100 films throughout her illustrious career, including Two Women, for which she won an Academy Award for Best Actress. Her signature dark hair, almond-shaped eyes, and full lips undoubtedly inspired countless imitations.
But Loren is more than just a pretty face - she is also a philanthropist, dedicating her time and resources to organizations that support children, the environment, and social justice causes.
Vanessa Williams
Vanessa Williams rose to fame after being crowned Miss America in 1984, becoming the first black woman to hold the title. Despite having to resign when nude photos of her were published without her consent, Williams continued to captivate audiences with her talents. She transitioned to acting, landing roles in films such as Eraser and Soul Food. However, her most memorable performance was as the lovable Wilhelmina Slater on the hit TV show Ugly Betty.
Williams also made a name for herself in the music industry, releasing several successful albums and receiving multiple Grammy nominations. She may be drop-dead gorgeous, but she is full of talent too!
Jane Birkin
Jane Birkin is a French/English actress, singer, and fashion icon who gained international recognition in the 1960s and 70s. She starred in several successful British and French films, but her relationship with the French singer and songwriter Serge Gainsbourg brought her lasting fame. Their collaboration produced several iconic songs and albums that remain influential today. But Birkin's influence on fashion is equally remarkable. Her effortless and timeless style inspired one of the most exclusive luxury handbags in the world.
The story goes that Birkin was seated next to the CEO of Hermès on a flight from Paris to London in 1981 when her straw bag broke, and she expressed her frustration with not finding a good leather weekend bag. The CEO then offered to create a bag that would meet her specifications; thus, the Birkin bag was born.
Britt Ekland
Swedish actress and singer Britt Ekland was the ultimate 'It' girl of the 70s, with her stunning looks and enviable lifestyle. She starred in many iconic films throughout the 60s and 70s, including the cheeky comedy The Night They Raided Minsky's and the gritty crime thriller Get Carter. Ekland even got to play a Bond girl in The Man with the Golden Gun, opposite the charming Roger Moore. Who didn't want to live a day in her life?
Ekland gained even more notoriety for her high-profile romance with actor Peter Sellers, who proposed to her after seeing her photograph in the paper and became one of the world's most photographed and talked-about celebrities.
Loretta Young
Loretta Young was a true Hollywood icon with more than three decades in the industry. She first graced the silver screen at age three and quickly became a household name, thanks to her captivating performances. With an Oscar nomination under her belt and an Academy Award win for Best Actress, Young was one of the most talented actresses of her time. However, it wasn't just her work on screen that made headlines - her tumultuous personal life was also a hot topic.
From a brief marriage to actor Grant Withers to a public affair with co-star Spencer Tracy, Young's love life kept audiences on their toes.
Grace Kelly
She was a fashion icon, and her sense of style was admired by many. Her wedding dress, designed by MGM costume designer Helen Rose, became an instant classic, inspiring generations of brides. Her effortless elegance and refined taste made her a muse to fashion designers like Edith Head and Christian Dior. Beyond her impeccable fashion sense, Grace Kelly was also a trailblazer, becoming one of the first Hollywood actresses to marry into royalty.
She became a philanthropist and a patron of the arts, devoting herself to charitable causes. Though her life was tragically cut short by a car accident, her memory lives on as an embodiment of grace and style.
Dorothy Dandridge
Dorothy Dandridge was a trailblazer who broke down barriers and paved the way for future generations of Black actresses. As a member of the Dandridge Sisters, she dazzled audiences with her singing and dancing skills. But it was her acting talent that genuinely shone through, earning her an Oscar nomination for her role in the 1954 film Carmen Jones. Dorothy Dandridge was not only a trailblazing actress but also a groundbreaking fashion icon.
She was known for her impeccable style and elegance, often wearing stunning gowns and accessories that turned heads wherever she went. She became one of the first black models to appear on the cover of Life magazine.
Jane Fonda
Jane Fonda's career has spanned over six decades and shows no signs of slowing down. A versatile performer, she has excelled in every medium she has tackled, from film to television to Broadway. But she's not just a Hollywood icon; Fonda has also been an outspoken activist, using her platform to promote social justice and environmental causes. Her involvement in politics has sometimes led to controversy, but she remains unafraid to speak her mind and stand up for what she believes in.
With a life as rich and varied as hers, it's no wonder that Jane Fonda is still a force to be reckoned with today.
Judy Garland
Judy Garland's legacy as a Hollywood icon continues to endure decades after her untimely death. From her unforgettable performance as Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz to her remarkable singing talent, Garland left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. And we can't forget she was absolutely gorgeous. But her success wasn't enough, and her personal life was marked by addiction and mental health struggles, ultimately leading to her tragic end at just 47 years old.
Judy Garland will forever be remembered as a star shining brightly in Hollywood's golden age. Keep reading to learn about more incredible women who have made their mark in Hollywood history.
Katharine Hepburn
Katharine Hepburn was a trailblazing actress and a fashion icon known for her chic style and penchant for menswear-inspired outfits. Her confidence and elegance continue to inspire women worldwide to embrace their unique style and challenge societal norms. From her iconic turtlenecks to her tailored pantsuits, Hepburn's fashion choices were a reflection of her bold and independent spirit. He was known for her natural and effortless beauty, often opting for minimal makeup and simple hairstyles that highlighted her strong cheekbones and piercing eyes.
Even as she aged, her beauty remained timeless and captivating, proving that true beauty comes from within. Despite the pressures of Hollywood to conform to certain standards of beauty, Hepburn stayed true to herself.
Jessica Lange
With her striking features and iconic blonde hair, it's no wonder why Jessica Lange is considered one of the most beautiful actresses of her time. Her talent is undeniable, having won two Academy Awards, three Emmy Awards, and five Golden Globe Awards over the course of her career. Lange's dedication to her craft is what sets her apart from the rest, taking on challenging roles and delivering performances that leave audiences in awe.
Whether she's playing a witch in American Horror Story or a legendary Hollywood actress in Feud: Bette and Joan, Jessica Lange never fails to captivate her viewers with her beauty and talent.
Faye Dunaway
Despite the years passing, Faye Dunaway's beauty still shines as brightly as it did in her younger days. With her striking features and impeccable fashion sense, it's no wonder she was once a muse to legendary fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. Whether on the big screen or on the red carpet, Dunaway always manages to turn heads with her timeless elegance. Her luscious hair and gorgeous looks made her truly a beauty.
As one of the few actresses to have won an Academy Award, a BAFTA, and a Golden Globe for the same film, it's safe to say that Faye Dunaway is a true icon of the silver screen.
Veronica Lake
From the golden age of Hollywood to the present day, Veronica Lake remains an icon of beauty and glamour. As an actress, she captured audiences with her smoldering looks and sultry voice, portraying complex femme fatale characters on the silver screen. Lake's signature hairstyle - cascading waves that partially covered one eye - became a sensation and was even copied by women across the country. Did you know that Veronica Lake's famous peek-a-boo hairstyle actually caused a national security issue during World War II?
Her hairstyle was so popular that many women working in factories tried to emulate it, but it proved to be a safety hazard as loose hair could get caught in machinery.
Mia Farrow
From captivating audiences on the silver screen to being at the center of high-profile romantic dramas, Mia Farrow is a Hollywood icon who has lived a life of intrigue and excitement. With her luminous beauty and undeniable talent, Farrow has become one of the most beloved actresses of her generation. Her most iconic role in Rosemary's Baby is just one example of her incredible range and ability to bring complex characters to life on screen. But Farrow's impact goes beyond just her work as an actress.
She has also been a tireless advocate for humanitarian causes, working with organizations such as UNICEF to improve the lives of children around the world.
Sally Field
Sally Field may be best known for playing Smokey's love interest in Smokey and the Bandit, but she's had a long and impressive career in Hollywood. From Steel Magnolias to Forrest Gump, she's been in some of the most beloved movies of all time. Plus, she's been nominated for all kinds of awards, including an Oscar for her role in Lincoln. Sally Field is a true Hollywood legend, and we can't get enough of her.
Even now, at 76 years old, she is aging gracefully and still full of beauty and talent! She is Truly one of Hollywood's gems.
Julie Andrews
Julie Andrews is a Hollywood legend who has aged like a fine wine. Despite being in her 80s, she remains a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. With her unforgettable performances in two iconic films, Mary Poppins and The Sound of Music, she has captured the hearts of generations of moviegoers. But her talents extend beyond acting. Andrews is also a celebrated author, having written dozens of books for children and adults alike.
Her enduring appeal is a testament to her talent and charm, making her a true icon in the world of entertainment.