Lauren Hutton is an icon of beauty, resilience, and authenticity. Rising to supermodel fame in the 1970s, Hutton broke boundaries in the modeling world and enjoyed a successful career in film. Her life and career showcase a bold spirit and a commitment to self-expression, making her an enduring influence in popular culture. Here, we explore Lauren Hutton’s biography, from her early life to her supermodel status, career highlights, and her impact on redefining beauty standards.
Born Mary Laurence Hutton on November 17, 1943, in Charleston, South Carolina, Hutton had a unique and challenging upbringing. Raised primarily by her mother after her parents divorced, she moved frequently as a child, eventually settling in Miami, Florida. After attending Chamberlain High School in Tampa, Hutton went on to study journalism at the University of South Florida, but her adventurous spirit led her elsewhere.
Hutton eventually moved to New York City in the 1960s, determined to pursue a career in modeling. However, the industry’s rigid beauty standards posed challenges, and Hutton’s signature gap-toothed smile was initially seen as an imperfection. She received countless suggestions to “fix” her teeth, but Hutton embraced her distinctive look, standing firm against the industry norms and setting the stage for a groundbreaking career.
Despite the initial setbacks, Hutton’s unique beauty and charismatic personality began to catch the attention of top designers and photographers in the late 1960s. She gradually gained recognition as a refreshing alternative to the conventional models of the time, and her gap-toothed smile became a symbol of individuality and confidence.
Hutton’s career reached new heights in 1973 when she signed a million-dollar contract with Revlon, becoming the first model to secure such a lucrative deal. Her partnership with Revlon’s Ultima line transformed her career and set a new standard in the modeling industry. This groundbreaking contract shifted the perception of models from simply campaign faces to high-profile celebrities, elevating the profession.
Lauren Hutton’s deal with Revlon redefined the business of modeling, allowing models to negotiate higher salaries and achieve celebrity status. Her success opened doors for future generations of supermodels, empowering them to seek greater financial security and respect within the industry. By breaking down financial and professional barriers, Hutton became a pioneer and a role model for others, establishing herself as one of the original supermodels.
While Hutton made waves in fashion, she also pursued a career in film, debuting in Paper Lion (1968) alongside Alan Alda. Her effortless charm and natural beauty translated well to the screen, leading to more significant roles. In The Gambler (1974), she starred opposite James Caan, portraying a woman caught in a complicated relationship with a compulsive gambler.
In 1980, Hutton starred in American Gigolo, one of her most iconic film roles, alongside Richard Gere. Her portrayal of Michelle Stratton, a socialite entangled in a romance with a male escort, was well-received and solidified her presence in Hollywood. Although her film career didn’t reach the same heights as her modeling, Hutton’s performances were consistently praised, and she continued to explore diverse projects in both film and television.
Even as she aged, Lauren Hutton remained a force in modeling, defying the industry’s youth-centric focus. She continued to model into her 50s, 60s, and beyond, challenging ageist norms and proving that beauty has no expiration date. Her career longevity paved the way for a more inclusive view of beauty, inspiring other models and the fashion industry to embrace a broader range of ages.
In 1999, at the age of 55, Hutton appeared on the cover of Big magazine, photographed by Mario Testino. The cover, in which she posed confidently, symbolized her stance against ageism and celebrated self-acceptance. In 2017, at age 73, Hutton walked the runway for Bottega Veneta during Milan Fashion Week, becoming one of the oldest models to walk for a major fashion house. These milestones cemented her role as an advocate for age inclusivity in fashion.
Throughout her career, Hutton became an outspoken advocate for natural beauty and self-acceptance. She frequently discussed the importance of aging gracefully and challenged societal pressures to look youthful. Hutton embraced her unique features and encouraged others to do the same, promoting the idea that beauty comes from self-confidence and authenticity.
Her commitment to natural skincare and minimalist beauty routines reflects her philosophy. Hutton has shared insights on her own self-care practices, encouraging women to prioritize feeling good over adhering to conventional standards. Her influence has been significant in shifting beauty ideals, urging both the fashion industry and society to adopt a more inclusive perspective on beauty.
Lauren Hutton remains active in the industry, collaborating with brands that share her values. She appeared in campaigns for J. Crew, where her timeless style and authenticity resonated with audiences. Her presence in these campaigns reinforces her status as a fashion icon and a role model, inspiring women of all ages to embrace their unique beauty.
Hutton’s life story reflects resilience, strength, and an unwavering commitment to authenticity. Her journey from an unconventional young woman with a gap-toothed smile to a celebrated model and actress is a testament to her fearless spirit. By staying true to herself and refusing to conform, she paved the way for future generations to break barriers and challenge beauty standards.
Lauren Hutton’s career is a powerful example of the strength that comes from embracing individuality. Her impact on modeling and film, combined with her advocacy for natural beauty and age inclusivity, has solidified her place as an enduring icon. Hutton’s legacy will continue to inspire and shape the fashion and entertainment industries for years to come, reminding us that true beauty transcends age and norms. Her story serves as a beacon of resilience, authenticity, and self-acceptance, and her influence will resonate across generations.
