Female supermodels do not just dominate the fashion world; male models are also carving their paths and earning impressive salaries.
These top male models have graced the covers of major magazines, walked for renowned designers, and secured lucrative campaigns with global brands.
From David Gandy’s timeless appeal to Lucky Blue Smith’s fresh, youthful charm, these 15 male models are at the pinnacle of the fashion industry, earning millions through their talent and striking looks.
Let’s examine the highest-paid male models and what makes them stand out.
Highest-Paid Male Models in the Fashion Industry
1. Sean O’Pry
Sean O’Pry is one of the highest-paid male models in the world, known for his striking features and versatility.
Discovered through MySpace, O’Pry has worked with top fashion houses such as Calvin Klein, Versace, and Giorgio Armani.
His strong jawline and piercing eyes have made him a favorite for both runway shows and editorial spreads.
- Notable Work: Campaigns for Calvin Klein, Versace, and Giorgio Armani.
- Earnings: Estimated $1.5 million annually.
- Known For: Consistently ranked as one of the top male models worldwide.
2. David Gandy
David Gandy is a British model who gained international fame for his work with Dolce & Gabbana.
Known for his classic, masculine looks, Gandy has become a fashion icon, particularly for luxury and tailored clothing.
His muscular build and timeless appeal have set him apart from other models in the industry.
- Notable Work: Dolce & Gabbana campaigns, GQ covers.
- Earnings: Estimated $1.4 million annually.
- Known For: Iconic status as the face of Dolce & Gabbana’s Light Blue fragrance campaign.
3. Simon Nessman
Simon Nessman is a Canadian model who has worked with top fashion brands like Michael Kors, Armani, and Ralph Lauren.
With his rugged yet clean-cut look, Nessman has become a staple in both runway and editorial fashion.
He has also been featured in numerous high-profile advertising campaigns.
- Notable Work: Campaigns for Michael Kors, Armani, and Ralph Lauren.
- Earnings: Estimated $1.1 million annually.
- Known For: His versatile look that works across high fashion and commercial campaigns.
4. Jon Kortajarena
Spanish model Jon Kortajarena is one of the most recognizable faces in the fashion industry, known for his sharp features and brooding presence.
He has worked with brands like Tom Ford, Balmain, and Hugo Boss.
Kortajarena’s sultry look and charismatic personality have also led to ventures into acting.
- Notable Work: Campaigns for Tom Ford, Balmain, and Hugo Boss.
- Earnings: Estimated $1 million annually.
- Known For: Combining modeling with a successful acting career.
5. Lucky Blue Smith
Lucky Blue Smith is a young American model who skyrocketed to fame thanks to his striking platinum blonde hair and sharp features.
Starting his career as a teenager, Smith has modeled for major brands like Tommy Hilfiger and Calvin Klein.
His youthful look and social media presence have made him a favorite among younger audiences.
- Notable Work: Campaigns for Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein, and H&M.
- Earnings: Estimated $1 million annually.
- Known For: His signature platinum hair and strong social media influence.
6. Noah Mills
Noah Mills is a Canadian model and actor who has worked with some of the biggest names in fashion, including Dolce & Gabbana and Michael Kors.
Known for his classic good looks and rugged charm, Mills has also ventured into acting, making him a versatile talent in both industries.
- Notable Work: Campaigns for Dolce & Gabbana, Michael Kors, and Tom Ford.
- Earnings: Estimated $1 million annually.
- Known For: His combination of high fashion modeling and acting roles.
7. Arthur Kulkov
Arthur Kulkov is a Russian-born model who has made his mark in fashion with his chiseled features and sharp style.
He has worked for brands like Tommy Hilfiger and Dolce & Gabbana and has appeared in numerous editorials and runway shows.
Kulkov’s strong presence and classic look make him a sought-after model.
- Notable Work: Campaigns for Tommy Hilfiger, Dolce & Gabbana, and Banana Republic.
- Earnings: Estimated $905,000 annually.
- Known For: His distinct, tailored look in high fashion campaigns.
8. Tyson Ballou
Tyson Ballou is a veteran in the modeling industry, with a career spanning more than two decades.
Known for his athletic build and timeless appeal, Ballou has modeled for brands like Calvin Klein, Hugo Boss, and Dolce & Gabbana.
His long-standing success in the fashion industry makes him one of the highest-paid male models.
- Notable Work: Campaigns for Calvin Klein, Hugo Boss, and Dolce & Gabbana.
- Earnings: Estimated $900,000 annually.
- Known For: Longevity in the modeling industry and maintaining top status over the years.
9. Oliver Cheshire
Oliver Cheshire is a British model known for his refined, tailored look.
He has worked with brands such as Calvin Klein, Dolce & Gabbana, and Marks & Spencer.
Cheshire’s clean-cut appearance and sense of style have also made him a fashion influencer and a regular on best-dressed lists.
- Notable Work: Campaigns for Calvin Klein, Dolce & Gabbana, and Marks & Spencer.
- Earnings: Estimated $850,000 annually.
- Known For: His classic style and influence in men’s fashion.
10. Marlon Teixeira
Marlon Teixeira is a Brazilian model known for his beachy, rugged look and striking features.
He has worked with major brands like Diesel, Emporio Armani, and Dolce & Gabbana.
Teixeira’s unique blend of high fashion and laid-back charm has made him one of the most sought-after male models.
- Notable Work: Campaigns for Diesel, Emporio Armani, and Dolce & Gabbana.
- Earnings: Estimated $850,000 annually.
- Known For: His distinctive, beach-inspired look and Brazilian charm.
11. Jordan Barrett
Jordan Barrett, an Australian model, is known for his striking, androgynous look and rebellious persona.
He has worked with major fashion houses like Versace, Moschino, and Balmain.
With his wild hair and unique presence, Barrett has quickly become a favorite in both editorial and runway work.
- Notable Work: Campaigns for Versace, Moschino, and Balmain.
- Earnings: Estimated $750,000 annually.
- Known For: His androgynous look and bold fashion choices.
12. Tobias Sorensen
Tobias Sorensen is a Danish model recognized for his rugged good looks and strong jawline.
He has worked with brands such as Calvin Klein, Hugo Boss, and H&M.
Sorensen’s versatility allows him to transition easily between high fashion editorials and commercial campaigns.
- Notable Work: Campaigns for Calvin Klein, Hugo Boss, and H&M.
- Earnings: Estimated $725,000 annually.
- Known For: His rugged and masculine look.
13. Rob Evans
Rob Evans is a British model and boxer known for his athletic build and intense look.
He has worked with luxury brands like Givenchy, Moschino, and Calvin Klein.
In addition to modeling, Evans gained recognition as a judge on “America’s Next Top Model,” further boosting his public profile.
- Notable Work: Campaigns for Givenchy, Moschino, and Calvin Klein.
- Earnings: Estimated $700,000 annually.
- Known For: His dual career in modeling and boxing, as well as his role on “America’s Next Top Model.”
14. Alessio Pozzi
Alessio Pozzi is an Italian model known for his sharp features and confident runway presence.
He has worked with prestigious brands like Dolce & Gabbana, Versace, and Givenchy.
Pozzi’s Mediterranean charm and strong facial structure have made him a staple in fashion shows and campaigns.
- Notable Work: Campaigns for Dolce & Gabbana, Versace, and Givenchy.
- Earnings: Estimated $600,000 annually.
- Known For: His standout runway work and high-fashion campaigns.
15. Isaac Carew
Isaac Carew is a British model and chef known for his classic good looks and versatility in fashion and lifestyle content.
He has modeled for brands like Hermes, Topman, and Valentino.
Outside of modeling, Carew has built a successful brand as a chef, blending fashion with food content.
- Notable Work: Campaigns for Hermes, Topman, and Valentino.
- Earnings: Estimated $600,000 annually.
- Known For: Balancing a modeling career with his culinary passion.
Conclusion
The world of male modeling is as competitive as it is lucrative, and these 15 top-earning male models have proven their worth through talent, versatility, and charisma.
From Sean O’Pry’s timeless appeal to Isaac Carew’s blend of fashion and food, these models have become global icons, dominating fashion campaigns and runways while maintaining strong public profiles.
Their work continues to shape the face of fashion, earning them millions and solidifying their status at the industry’s top.
