Tatjana Patitz was a German model and actress who was one of the big five supermodels in the 1990s. She represented many famous fashion designers on runways and in magazines such as Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, and Vogue. But what ever happened to Tatjana Patitz after her time in the spotlight? In this blog post, we will explore the life and career of Tatjana Patitz and take a look at what she is up to now. What Ever Happened to Supermodel Tatjana Patitz
Early Life and Career
Tatjana Patitz was born in Hamburg, Germany on March 25, 1966. She was scouted at the age of 16 by a photographer while walking down the streets of her hometown. After being scouted, Patitz moved to Paris to pursue modeling full-time. Soon after, she began appearing in numerous publications, including Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, and Vogue. Her unique features, including her green eyes and distinctive long blond hair, quickly made her a fashion icon.
In 1985, she made her international runway debut as one of the first German supermodels alongside Linda Evangelista and Christy Turlington. She quickly gained notoriety for her memorable runway appearances and editorial work. She also served as the face of Calvin Klein and a spokesperson for Yves Saint Laurent. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, she appeared in campaigns for brands such as Versace, Givenchy, and Guess Jeans.
Patitz’s success in the fashion industry continued to soar throughout the 90s. In 1993, she became one of the original “Big Five” supermodels (alongside Linda Evangelista, Christy Turlington, Cindy Crawford, and Naomi Campbell). Patitz has appeared on numerous magazine covers throughout her career and was the first German model to land the coveted cover of American Vogue in 1987. What Ever Happened to Supermodel Tatjana Patitz
Runway Work
Throughout the 1980s and 90s, Tatjana Patitz was a sought-after model for the world’s top fashion designers. She began her career at the tender age of 17, walking in Paris Fashion Week for designers such as Giorgio Armani, Jean-Paul Gaultier, Yves Saint Laurent, and Valentino. During this time, she also began appearing in popular magazines such as Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, and Vogue.
Patitz was especially noted for her ability to perfectly portray the “ice queen” aesthetic that was popular during this period. In the early ’90s, she became one of the top 5 supermodels of the era, which included Linda Evangelista, Christy Turlington, Cindy Crawford and Naomi Campbell. Her runway appearances increased dramatically due to her newfound fame and she was featured in shows for Versace, Karl Lagerfeld, Donna Karan and Calvin Klein.
Patitz was highly praised by her peers and is often cited as being the driving force behind the success of the supermodel era. She was able to convey an aura of strength and elegance on the catwalk that resonated with viewers and set her apart from other models. In addition to her runway work, she also appeared in ad campaigns for Guess Jeans, Estée Lauder, L’Oreal and Dior.
Victoria’s Secret
Tatjana Patitz was one of the first models to be featured in the iconic Victoria’s Secret fashion shows. Her unique look and captivating presence captured the attention of audiences around the world. She first appeared in the 1992 show and continued to grace the runway until 1999. During her time with Victoria’s Secret, she appeared in numerous catalogs, ads, and commercials. Her most memorable moment came in 1994 when she wore a sheer white gown during the show. The dress was so iconic that it has become part of Victoria’s Secret’s lore.
Patitz’s appearances at the annual show always drew considerable attention and cemented her as one of the premier models of her time. She was so revered that she was asked to reprise her role in the show in 1997. As well as appearing on the catwalk, Patitz was also featured in the 1996 music video for “That’s The Way Love Goes” by Janet Jackson. Her popularity with Victoria’s Secret led to her becoming one of their leading ambassadors for several years.
Later Career and Personal Life
After the peak of her modeling career, Tatjana Patitz remained active in the industry. She appeared in campaigns for Versace, Ralph Lauren, and Levi’s, among others. Patitz also ventured into the realm of acting, starring in the 1995 French film L’Amant, as well as making an appearance in the 1997 James Bond movie Tomorrow Never Dies.
In recent years, Patitz has been involved with environmental activism and conservation causes. She has worked with the National Geographic Society and International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW). In 2010, she made a documentary on rhinos to highlight the impact of poaching.
Patitz has been married twice: first to artist Kurt Munkacsi in 1993, and then to visual effects supervisor Scott Lochmus in 2002. The couple have one son together, born in 2005. She currently resides in California.
Legacy
Tatjana Patitz has left an indelible mark on the fashion industry, both as a model and as an advocate for body acceptance. She was one of the original members of the supermodel group that took the world by storm in the 1990s and she used her platform to bring attention to important causes. During her career, she was a vocal proponent of diversity in the fashion industry and helped lead the charge for body acceptance in the modeling world.
Patitz continued to work in the fashion industry even after her peak in the 90s, appearing in campaigns for brands like H&M and French Connection. Her influence can still be seen in today’s industry; many of today’s top models look up to Patitz as an inspiration and a reminder that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes.
Patitz’s legacy will undoubtedly live on in the fashion industry for years to come. She is remembered as a pioneer who opened doors for women of all sizes, ages, and backgrounds and helped create a more inclusive industry that celebrates beauty in all its forms.
