Eileen Ford

Date of Birth: March 25, 1922

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Date of Death: July 9, 2014

Biography

Eileen Ford, born Eileen Cecile Otte, was an influential American businesswoman and model agency executive, best known as the co-founder of Ford Models, one of the most prestigious modeling agencies in the world. Born on March 25, 1922, in New York City, she was raised in a family that valued education and hard work. She attended Barnard College, where she studied psychology. In 1946, with her husband Jerry Ford, she founded Ford Models, revolutionizing the modeling industry by introducing standardized contracts and advocating for higher pay and better working conditions for models. Eileen Ford was known for her sharp eye for talent and her uncompromising standards. She played a pivotal role in launching the careers of some of the most iconic models of the 20th century, including Lauren Hutton, Christie Brinkley, and Naomi Campbell. Her influence extended beyond the modeling world, as she often worked with top fashion designers, photographers, and magazine editors, helping to shape the fashion industry as a whole. Throughout her career, Eileen was not only a shrewd businesswoman but also a mentor to many young women entering the modeling industry. Her dedication to professionalism and her protective approach towards her models set her apart in an industry often criticized for its harshness. Eileen Ford passed away on July 9, 2014, but her legacy continues through Ford Models, which remains a leading agency in the fashion world.

5 Interesting Facts about Eileen Ford

1. Eileen Ford co-founded Ford Models with her husband, Jerry Ford, in 1946.

2. Ford Models was one of the first agencies to introduce standardized contracts for models.

3. Eileen was instrumental in launching the careers of supermodels like Lauren Hutton and Naomi Campbell.

4. She was known for her strict standards and protective nature towards her models.

5. Eileen Ford was a graduate of Barnard College, where she studied psychology.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Eileen Ford

1. “I think the first thing my models have to have is confidence.”

2. “A beautiful model is like a beautiful racehorse.”

3. “I want my girls to have an education and a career.”

4. “The most important thing a young woman can have is self-respect.”

5. “Models have to be like athletes, always in top form.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of her career, Eileen Ford’s net worth was estimated to be around $100 million.

Children

Eileen Ford had four children with her husband Jerry Ford: Jamie Ford, Billy Ford, Katie Ford, and Lacey Ford. Katie Ford later took over the family business and served as CEO of Ford Models.