“America’s First Supermodel” Still Looks Amazing at 77, “Nothing Makes Me Feel Older,” She Says

Oct 09, 2024

Before Cindy Crawford and Janice Dickinson, there was Cheryl Tiegs. Nowadays, the stunning woman dubbed “America’s first supermodel” is rarely seen gracing magazine covers and strutting on runways. However, there was a time when Tiegs, 77 was one of the biggest names in American fashion. 

Born on September 25, 1947, in Breckenridge, Minnesota, Cheryl rose to fame as one of the first supermodels, famously appearing on the covers of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue and then being featured in Time magazine, where she was named the All-American model. Her ethereal beauty and work in the modeling industry helped redefine standards of beauty, paving the way for future generations of models.

Her alluring appeal and stunning features made her one of America’s sweethearts. Tiegs is an icon of 1970s pop culture, most notably for her unforgettable “Pink Bikini” poster. She started her career  when she appeared on the cover of Glamour magazine at just 17 and was the first model to be on the cover of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue twice. She continued making her mark in the industry and made history at 49 when she made her fourth appearance in Sports Illustrated for their Swimsuit Issue. 

Yet, what is truly remarkable is how Cheryl, now in her late 70s, appears to have barely aged since her heydays. She continues to inspire awe because of her agelessness, making many curious about just how she stays youthful in her golden years. She recently caused waves on social media when fans reacted to a throwback image of her on a magazine cover.

"How did you even look like that! Insane! 🥳," one fan gushed. 

Luckily, we have a few tips from the supermodel to follow in her footsteps.

Tiegs eventually settled down and is a mom-of-three and now also has a grandchild. She has seemingly gone with the flow of her life, easily enjoying life as a grandmother now. In 2020, she shared a picture of her granddaughter sitting in her lap, both of them smiling happily into the camera. 

"My grand, Elektra, always sticks out her pretty little pink tongue when she smiles," she captioned the adorable picture.

As for her appearance these days, the former model turned fashion designer has embraced her wrinkles. Tiegs is not one for plastic surgery, and prides herself on her graceful aging and the way she has come far enough in the modeling industry to be recognized as one of its icons. As for whether this impacts her negatively by making her feel older, she responded:

“Nothing makes me feel older. Only I know all of the years of insecurity and the hard work that have gone into what I’ve done. I’ve been in the business for so, so long. And to be honored for that is really amazing to me.”

Tiegs has also shared her advice for aging wonderfully with other women in an interview, saying:

“You can’t just hope that it happens; you really have to make the effort. It’s a daily effort of eating the right foods and exercising.” 

But it goes beyond just the physical. The actress also vouches for stimulating one’s mind and soul for longevity. She surrounds herself with loved ones, reading and positivity. 

“Do something that makes you happy. I love reading, and I gave that up for a while. Now I’m back to that. Find friends who make you laugh. I just want friends in my life who are positive influences.”

Do you also agree that Cheryl Tiegs has aged gracefully? Which one of her tips would you incorporate into your life? Please let us know what you think and let your friends know these tips too.