Confident, stunning, and talented. These qualities unite all of these strong individuals. Whether strutting down the catwalk, gracing the covers of magazines, or making their mark in television, these women have become true symbols of success within the fashion and beauty worlds. America Domani compiled a shortlist of some of the most gorgeous Italian models who have swept the world off its feet with their stunning beauty.
Melissa Satta
Melissa started her journey in the fashion industry when she was 16 when she was among the finalists for the Miss Wall beauty contest, obtaining the title of Miss Extreme. She has been a showgirl in the Italian satirical show, Striscia la notizia, a parody of the daily news. Satta has also appeared in Maxim Magazine and was featured in the 2010 issue of the Sports Illustrated swimsuit magazine.
Cristina Buccino
A versatile talent, Cristina Buccino excels as a model, showgirl, and influencer, showcasing her multifaceted abilities. Her modeling journey began in Calabria, where she made her mark. However, it was her appearance as a showgirl on the game show Tutto per tutto, hosted by Pupo, that truly launched her television career. Currently, she dedicates herself to the world of fashion, and her popularity has soared with an astounding 2 million followers on Instagram.
Elisabetta Canalis
Born in Sassari, Sardinia, Elisabetta Canalis begin her television career as a dancer on the Canale 5 show Striscia la Notizia from 1999 to 2002. Her transition to modeling started in 2003 when she graced the pages of a Max calendar. She evolved into a prominent spokeswoman and runway model for Hollywood Milano, a renowned disco club based in Milan. Elisabetta's allure also extended to the covers of Vanity Fair, a magazine she graced multiple times, including a notable appearance in 2010. In that same year, she secured the honor of being voted the fourth most beautiful woman globally, as recognized by the Italian edition of the publication. Canalis is also known for her former high-profile relationship with Hollywood actor George Clooney.
Chiara Ferragni
Chiara Ferragni has been a pioneer as a fashion influencer since the age of 16 when she was recruited by the Beatrice model agency. After several years in the modeling industry, she left to pursue her personal goals. She initiated her blog "The Blonde Salad," eventually transforming it into an Italian-language ebook. In 2013, Chiara reentered modeling with a Guess campaign. In 2015, she ventured into fashion design, creating the Chiara Ferragni Collection. With over 25 million followers on Instagram, Chiara's marriage to rapper Fedez in 2018 garnered substantial attention. Today, she stands as a thriving entrepreneur, influential fashion figure, and designer, inspiring a vast global audience.
Claudia Romani
Featured on the covers of GQ and Maxim, Claudia Romani is an Italian American model who has secured a spot among the 100 Sexiest Women in the World by FHM Denmark. Beyond her modeling success, she serves as the model consultant for Miami Life Magazine, gracing its cover on multiple occasions. Romani's influence extends as the spokesperson for Gran Fondo Giro d'Italia and the Five Boro Bike Tour in NYC, showcasing her versatility and commitment to various platforms.
Beatrice Borromeo
Beyond her career as a fashion model, Beatrice Borromeo Arese Taverna comes from a distinguished lineage, hailing from an aristocratic family as the daughter of Don Carlo Ferdinando Borromeo, Count of Arona. As she started her modeling career at the age of 15, she joined the fashion industry under the guidance of the Tomei modeling agency. Beatrice graced runways for renowned brands including Chanel, Valentino, and Trussardi, solidifying her status as the face of Blumarine. In 2021, she was proudly announced as a brand ambassador for Dior, reflecting her multifaceted presence in the world of fashion.
Elena Santarelli
Originally from Latina and the niece of renowned footballer Ubaldo Righetti, Elena has been carving a distinctive path in fashion since her inception as a catwalk model. Early on, she was strutting down runways for high-profile names like Giorgio Armani, Laura Biagiotti, and Gai Mattiolo. Her allure also graced the pages of a Max magazine calendar. Beyond her modeling portfolio, she made her television debut on the quiz show L’eredità in 2005. Demonstrating her versatility, she embarked on a writing career in 2019, unveiling her works Una mamma lo sa and mamma NON lo sa.
AJ Forrisi
Assistant Editor for America Domani, AJ Forrisi is a Brooklyn-based writer and photographer. His work focuses on food, travel, sports, landscapes, and urban scenes. You can find him on Instagram @aj.photo.works.