Daphne Selfe, who is known as Britain’s oldest supermodel, has passed away at the age of 97 after an incredible and groundbreaking career.
The news was announced by Models 1, with a beautiful photo montage, celebrating Selfe’s career and showing all of her incredible accomplishments.
“Daphne was an inspiration to us at Models1,” the Instagram post said. “We will miss her greatly.”
Daphne Selfe’s Family Shares Heartfelt Statement
On Selfe’s Instagram page, her family shared a statement, confirming her passing.
“She rose peacefully and purposely towards the light, as only the sensational model in her knew how, in the sunshine of a beautiful spring equinox afternoon,” the post read. “Daphne was 97. Her final working day was last June when she graced the Vogue luncheon at Royal Ascot Ladies Day. What a way to bow out, fashion, people, and horses… her main loves. She will continue to inspire, always and forever.”
It was signed by her children, Mark, Claire and Rose, as well as her grandchildren Jack, Alec, Grace and Robin.
Many others in the industry also paid tribute.
“She was my greatest friend and muse, I will miss you so much wonderful Daphne. Please rest in peace ✨✨✨,” photographer Alistair Guy wrote.
“😢❤️❤️❤️🌹RIP wonderful woman and fashion icon x,” model Erin O’Connor shared.
“So inspiring to know the footsteps before us were so empowering and remarkable. It’s up to us Greys to carry forward her legacy 🤍🩶 Rest in Peace Daphne knowing we will benefit from the path you forged ahead for us,” Celebrity producer Danielle Roet posted.
Daphne Selfe’s Legacy
GettySelfe’s modeling career spanned seven decades, beginning when she won a modeling competition in the 1940s. She went on to work in theatre and television production, pausing her modeling career to focus on her family.
However, when she was 70, Selfe decided to pick up right where she left off, taking part in London Fashion Week in 1998. She ultimately joined Models 1, remaining with the agency throughout her distinguished career.
“It’s very sad,” Selfe’s agent at Model 1 told the Daily Mail. “She was absolutely incredible. She was such a joy to work with and she was just so inspirational. She was a very kind person, too.”
She was also named in the Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest model, and received the British Empire Medal. In 2015, she also set up the Daphne Selfe Academy, which served as a learning experience for women of all ages who were interested in the fashion industry.
