Jean Shrimpton is one of the most iconic supermodels from the 1960s. Here are some quick facts about the British beauty:
- Born in Buckinghamshire, England in 1942
- Discovered at age 17 by fashion photographer David Bailey
- Earned the nickname “The Shrimp” for her petite 5’7″ frame
- Had a 4-year relationship with Bailey in the 1960s
- Appeared on the cover of Vogue several times
- Known for her mods style and “doe eyes”
Jean Shrimpton did not attend university or college. She left school at age 15 and began modeling locally before moving to London at age 17. Shrimpton was discovered by David Bailey while modeling for a shampoo advertisement. Her natural beauty and unique look quickly made her one of the most sought-after models of the era.
Jean Shrimpton’s Modeling Career
After being discovered, Shrimpton’s modeling career took off rapidly. In 1960, she began modeling in London and appeared in British Vogue. The next year, she shot to international fame after appearing on the cover of French Vogue.
Shrimpton’s popularity skyrocketed when she visited New York in 1962 for a photo shoot with Bailey. The pair caused a sensation, exemplifying the mod, youth culture of London.
In 1965, Shrimpton gained notoriety when she wore a mini dress to the Melbourne Cup, one of Australia’s biggest horse races. She ignored the strict dress code and sparked controversy by not wearing stockings.
Throughout her career, Shrimpton graced the covers of virtually every major fashion magazine and worked with top fashion photographers like Richard Avedon. She appeared in ad campaigns for brands like Yardley cosmetics.
Where is Jean Shrimpton Now?
After retiring from modeling in the late 1960s, Shrimpton maintained a lower profile life in the English countryside and avoided the spotlight. She focused on raising her son and making art.
In 1990, Shrimpton released a coffee table book of photos titled “An Autobiography.” She also began painting and creating art collages, holding small gallery shows of her work.
Now in her 80s, Shrimpton keeps a private life but her legacy as a fashion icon endures. She is considered one of the “Faces of the ’60s” along with Twiggy and Veruschka. Shrimpton pioneered the free-spirited look that defined mod fashion.
Follow Jean Shrimpton
- Jean Shrimpton does not have public social media accounts. As a very private person, she has avoided the spotlight in recent decades.
FAQs about Jean Shrimpton
When was Jean Shrimpton born?
Jean Shrimpton was born on November 7, 1942 in Buckinghamshire, England.
How tall is Jean Shrimpton?
She is 5 feet 7 inches tall, which was considered quite tall for models in the 1960s.
What was Jean Shrimpton’s nickname?
Shrimpton earned the nickname “The Shrimp” for her petite frame.
Who discovered Jean Shrimpton?
Famed British photographer David Bailey discovered Shrimpton when she was 17 years old.
What was controversial about Shrimpton’s 1965 Melbourne Cup dress?
She boldly wore a mini shift dress instead of the formal dress code, sans stockings. This caused an uproar at the conservative event.