When one thinks of the quintessential American supermodel, Cheryl Tiegs inevitably comes to mind. Born on September 25, 1947, in Breckenridge, Minnesota, Tiegs redefined beauty standards and left an indelible mark on the fashion industry. Her journey from a small-town girl to an international icon is as fascinating as it is inspiring.
Cheryl’s journey began in Alhambra, California, where her family moved when she was a child. Despite her natural beauty, Cheryl was more interested in academics. It wasn’t until her senior year of high school that she decided to send some photos to modeling agencies, and that decision would change the course of her life.
Her big break came when she was featured on the cover of Glamour magazine in 1964, while she was still a teenager. This cover was a sensation, and soon, she became a household name. Cheryl Tiegs is best known for her appearances in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issues, where she graced the cover multiple times.
Tiegs’ 1978 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue cover, featuring her in a fishnet swimsuit, became an iconic image and represented a shift in the portrayal of women in media. This cover challenged traditional beauty standards and paved the way for a more diverse and inclusive representation of women in the fashion and entertainment industries.
In addition to her modeling success, Cheryl Tiegs also launched her own line of clothing and accessories for Sears, becoming one of the first models to leverage her brand in such a way. This move demonstrated her entrepreneurial spirit and her ability to transition from a supermodel to a successful businesswoman.
Tiegs ventured into various fields, appearing on television shows like “The Love Boat” and “Fantasy Island,” and participating in reality TV. She became an advocate for health and wellness, promoting a balanced lifestyle long before it became trendy. Tiegs has supported organizations focused on environmental conservation and children’s education, using her platform to make a positive impact.
Cheryl Tiegs’ personal life has been as eventful as her professional one. She has been married four times and has two sons. Despite the ups and downs, she has always remained resilient, showcasing her strength and determination in the face of adversity.
Cheryl Tiegs’ impact on the fashion industry and popular culture cannot be overstated. She redefined beauty standards, paved the way for more diverse representation, and demonstrated the power of a versatile and entrepreneurial mindset. Her journey from a small-town girl to a legendary supermodel serves as an inspiration to aspiring models and individuals who dream of defying expectations and leaving a lasting legacy.
