Wilhelmina Cooper was a Dutch-American fashion model and the founder of Wilhelmina Models, a modeling agency based in New York City
After a successful career as a model in the 1950s and early 1960s, Cooper decided to start her own agency in order to provide better opportunities and fairer treatment for models
Cooper's agency quickly gained recognition and became one of the most prestigious modeling agencies in the world
It represented some of the most iconic models of the time, including Naomi Sims, Gia Carangi, and Beverly Johnson, and helped launch their careers
Cooper's approach to modeling was unique
She believed in the natural beauty of models and sought to showcase their individuality rather than conforming to traditional ideals of beauty
This approach revolutionized the industry and set new standards for diversity and inclusivity in modeling
Despite facing some challenges, such as lawsuits from rival agencies and the death of her son from a drug overdose, Cooper continued to lead her agency with determination and success
She expanded the agency's presence internationally, opening offices in Paris and Los Angeles, and established partnerships with major brands and designers
Cooper passed away in 1980 at the age of 40 due to lung cancer
However, her legacy and the impact she made on the modeling industry continue to be felt to this day
Wilhelmina Models remains one of the top agencies in the world, and Cooper's vision for a more inclusive and diverse modeling industry has inspired countless young models and industry professionals.
It represented some of the most iconic models of the time, including Naomi Sims, Gia Carangi, and Beverly Johnson, and helped launch their careers. Cooper's approach to modeling was unique. She believed in the natural beauty of models and sought to showcase their individuality rather than conforming to traditional ideals of beauty. This approach revolutionized the industry and set new standards for diversity and inclusivity in modeling. Despite facing some challenges, such as lawsuits from rival agencies and the death of her son from a drug overdose, Cooper continued to lead her agency with determination and success. She expanded the agency's presence internationally, opening offices in Paris and Los Angeles, and established partnerships with major brands and designers. Cooper passed away in 1980 at the age of 40 due to lung cancer. However, her legacy and the impact she made on the modeling industry continue to be felt to this day. Wilhelmina Models remains one of the top agencies in the world, and Cooper's vision for a more inclusive and diverse modeling industry has inspired countless young models and industry professionals.