There was a time when becoming a model meant gracing the covers of magazines or walking the runway at New York Fashion Week. Now, Instagram has flipped the script, allowing anyone with a strong aesthetic, a camera, and a bit of social savvy to build a modeling career. Instagram models have become synonymous with the platform, becoming some of the most followed individuals on social media. These influencers have turned Instagram into their personal portfolio, using curated content to captivate audiences and work with top global brands.
In this article, we’ll be discussing the Instagram model phenomenon, how it affects influencer marketing, who the biggest models to watch are, and how you can find them for your own campaigns.
What is an Instagram model?
The term "influencer model" is a bit of a catch-all, covering a whole range of personalities who blur the line between social media star and traditional model. These are the new-age icons who’ve redefined celebrity by blending online influence with high-fashion credibility. And there’s no one-size-fits-all background here – influencer models come from all sorts of paths, and they’re shaking up the industry in their own ways:
Social media purists
Some of these influencers built their fame purely on Instagram modeling. They started out by sharing content that drew in massive audiences, which in turn attracted brands and fashion houses eager to capitalize on their popularity. These influencers have mastered the online world, skillfully aligning with brands, and turning likes into lucrative partnerships. Their “runway”? Your Instagram feed.
Traditional models turned social media influencers
Then, there are the classic models who’ve taken their careers online. Already seasoned in runway shows and magazine editorials, they’ve embraced Instagram and TikTok to stay in touch with fans directly. By sharing a glimpse of their real lives, they give audiences a reason to connect beyond magazine covers. Not surprisingly, their social presence makes them even more attractive to brands who get the best of both worlds: an established model who’s also an online personality.
Influencers breaking into runway and editorial
Finally, we have the influencers who made such a splash online that they crossed over into traditional modeling gigs – you’ll now find them in magazines, ad campaigns, and even runway shows. Their blend of high-profile social presence and relatable content is just what brands are looking for, bringing the exclusivity of high fashion together with the approachability of a well-loved influencer.
How Instagram models impact influencer marketing
Influencer marketing has become a key strategy for brands, and Instagram models are some of the key players at the center of it.
Firstly, they offer more than just a large following; they bring an authentic connection with their audience. Followers are invested in their recommendations, which means brand partnerships feel genuine, not just like ads. This trust translates to higher engagement and better ROI for brands looking to build credibility with consumers.
Instagram’s algorithm also favors engaging content, and models who frequently interact with followers keep brands front and center on feeds. By partnering with active, high-engagement models, brands can stay top of mind with audiences – and beat algorithms while they’re at it.
Finally, when a trusted influencer shares a brand’s message, it’s more than just promotion – it’s a relationship-building opportunity. Followers see these models as relatable voices, so when they endorse a product, it feels like a trusted recommendation. Brands benefit from this genuine, lasting connection with consumers, driving not just visibility but loyalty.
List of the top 20 Instagram models
1. Kylie Jenner - @kyliejenner
Kylie Jenner is a beauty mogul and reality star whose brand, Kylie Cosmetics, became a cultural sensation, changing makeup trends among young women the world over. Known for her entrepreneurial success, she was listed as one of the youngest self-made billionaires. Kylie’s massive online following and influence over beauty trends have established her as a major figure in both business and social media.
2. Kendall Jenner - @kendalljenner
Kendall Jenner rose to fame as part of the Kardashian-Jenner family and transitioned seamlessly into high fashion, quickly becoming one of the highest-paid models globally. Known for her work with brands like Calvin Klein, Chanel, and Estée Lauder, she’s a dominant figure both on and off the runway. Kendall’s influence extends across fashion and pop culture, thanks to her years on television and through multiple appearances in different media.
3. Gigi Hadid - @gigihadid
Gigi Hadid is a top American model whose career includes collaborations with major brands like Tommy Hilfiger, Versace, and Maybelline. Known for her classic beauty and friendly public image, Gigi has made her mark on the industry, frequently appearing on magazine covers and in major ad campaigns. Her role as a young mother has also added to her relatability and appeal.
4. Bella Hadid - @bellahadid
Bella Hadid, one of the most in-demand models of her generation, has worked with top fashion houses, including Dior, Balenciaga, and Alexander Wang. Known for her bold style and unique looks, she’s become a mainstay on international runways and in editorial spreads, earning a reputation as a leading voice in high fashion and streetwear trends.
5. Hailey Bieber - @haileybieber
Hailey Bieber, a model and television personality, has become a significant figure in the fashion industry. Known for her work with brands like Levi's and Saint Laurent, she often collaborates with high-fashion labels. Her high-profile marriage to pop star Justin Bieber and her role as a muse for major beauty brands have further boosted her popularity among followers.
6. Cara Delevingne - @caradelevingne
Cara Delevingne is an English model, actress, and advocate known for her bold looks and fierce runway presence. Breaking into modeling with campaigns for Burberry and Chanel, she later transitioned into film and television. Cara’s dynamic career and outspoken advocacy for mental health have made her a well-known figure in both fashion and entertainment.
7. Emily Ratajkowski - @emrata
Emily Ratajkowski is a model, actress, and entrepreneur known for her roles in film and fashion. After rising to fame with her appearance in Robin Thicke’s “Blurred Lines” video, she has built a successful modeling career, also launching her own swimwear line. Emily uses her platform to promote female empowerment, combining her career with social advocacy.
8. Georgina Rodríguez - @georginagio
Georgina Rodríguez, a Spanish model and influencer, gained widespread attention as the partner of football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo. Known for her glamorous lifestyle and fashion-forward presence, Georgina has worked with high-end brands and graced the covers of major magazines. Her social media showcases her family life, luxurious travels, and collaborations with prestigious fashion houses.
9. Barbara Palvin - @realbarbarapalvin
Barbara Palvin is a Hungarian model celebrated for her work with Victoria’s Secret and appearances in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. Known for her striking features, she has become a familiar face in campaigns and fashion spreads, making her one of the most sought-after models from Eastern Europe.
10. Gisele Bündchen - @gisele
Brazilian supermodel Gisele Bündchen is a global icon whose career redefined the modeling industry. As one of the highest-paid models in the world, she has appeared in campaigns for Versace, Chanel, and other luxury brands. Now a philanthropist and environmental advocate, Gisele continues to use her platform for meaningful causes.
11. Candice Swanepoel - @candiceswanepoel
South African model Candice Swanepoel gained global recognition as a Victoria’s Secret Angel and has since become a leading figure in swimwear and lifestyle. Known for her striking blue eyes and beach-inspired look, she’s also the founder of the sustainable swimwear brand Tropic of C.
12. Sommer Ray - @sommerray
Sommer Ray is a fitness influencer and model recognized for her active lifestyle and dedication to health. She has built a strong social media following through fitness content, inspiring her fans to lead healthier lives. Sommer’s brand extends to her fitness line, which has resonated with a large online community.
13. Alexis Ren - @alexisren
Alexis Ren is a model and entrepreneur known for her fitness and wellness-focused lifestyle. Having grown her following through travel and fitness posts, she has become a voice for mental well-being and body positivity. Alexis has also launched her own activewear line, reflecting her commitment to health and wellness.
14. Hannah Stocking - @hannahstocking
Hannah Stocking is a model, comedian, and internet personality known for her viral skits and collaborations with other creators. She has carved a unique niche in the entertainment industry, blending humor with beauty and fashion, which has helped her amass a dedicated following across multiple platforms.
15. Ashley Graham - @ashleygraham
Ashley Graham is a body-positive model and advocate for inclusivity in fashion. Known for breaking barriers as a plus-size model, Ashley has appeared in Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and on the cover of Sports Illustrated. Her platform has helped redefine beauty standards, making her one of the most influential models today.
16. Taylor Hill - @taylor_hill
Taylor Hill is an American model best known for her work as a Victoria’s Secret Angel. With her classic beauty and approachable charm, she has quickly become one of the most popular models of her generation. Taylor has walked for major brands like Versace and Fendi, and her role in campaigns for luxury labels has solidified her standing in the modeling world.
17. Irina Shayk - @irinashayk
Russian model Irina Shayk is recognized globally for her sultry looks and high-fashion appeal. She gained fame as a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model and has since worked with brands like Givenchy, Burberry, and Versace. Her editorial work and runway appearances have made her a prominent figure in both high fashion and commercial modeling.
18. Rosie Huntington-Whiteley - @rosiehw
British model and actress Rosie Huntington-Whiteley has built a career that includes high-profile campaigns for brands like Burberry and Marks & Spencer. Known for her timeless elegance, Rosie has successfully transitioned from modeling to acting and entrepreneurship, launching her own beauty line. Her refined sense of style and business acumen have made her a respected figure in the fashion world.
19. Adriana Lima - @adrianalima
Adriana Lima is a Brazilian supermodel best known for her long-standing role as a Victoria’s Secret Angel, one of the longest in the brand’s history. Her career spans decades, with iconic appearances in campaigns for Maybelline and high-fashion brands. Adriana remains an influential figure in modeling, recognized for her contributions to the industry and her long-lasting appeal.
20. Miranda Kerr - @mirandakerr
Australian model Miranda Kerr achieved international fame as a Victoria’s Secret Angel and quickly became one of the most recognizable faces in fashion. She later founded KORA Organics, a successful skincare line, and continues to influence the beauty and wellness industries. Miranda’s enduring presence in fashion and entrepreneurship has made her a multifaceted icon.
How to find Instagram models for your brand
Looking to find the perfect Instagram model to promote your brand? There’s no shortage of talent out there, but how do you find the right fit for your brand’s image, needs, and budget? Luckily, HypeAuditor offers a few ways to make this much easier.
Use the Influencer Discovery tool
Not all Instagram models are created equal. HypeAuditor’s Influencer Discovery tool, with a database of over 205M accounts, lets you filter through influencers based on factors like follower count, engagement rates, audience interests, and a plethora of other metrics. It’s perfect for brands looking to target a specific demographic or aesthetic. With just a few clicks, you can find Instagram models who are an ideal fit for your brand and audience.
Vet influencers with analytics and reports
Once you’ve got a list of potential models, it’s time to dig a little deeper. As you would have seen above, the HypeAuditor platform presents a report for each influencer in the database; this lets you check out a huge range of factors at a glance. While the advanced report gives you the most in-depth information about a creator’s performance, the free report feature is packed with value that can inform your decision-making. This includes engagement rate, estimated post pricing, estimated reach, brand mentions, and much more – not to mention comparisons to industry averages, putting those figures into context.
HypeAuditor’s influencer ranking
If you’re simply looking for the high-rankers, HypeAuditor’s influencer ranking site is worth checking out. One of the primary sources for our information above, it lets you browse a list of the top Instagram models based on engagement, audience quality, and overall performance. This ranking can be further filtered using a range of categories and regions, helping you narrow down creators in various niches. The best part? The rankings are constantly updated, so you know you’re getting the most accurate and up-to-date info.
Conclusion
Instagram models are a major part of the platform’s appeal today. With their millions of followers and ability to create aspirational, captivating content, they’re now some of the most valuable assets a brand can have.
If you’re looking to get in on the action, finding the right Instagram model to represent your brand is key. With the help of tools like HypeAuditor, you can discover, vet, and partner with influencers who will bring real value to your campaigns. So, whether you’re a major brand or a smaller business looking to make some headway, working with an Instagram model could prove a smart move in your marketing strategy.
