Liu Wen

Liu Wen’s success formula is still a mystery. But whatever it was, it garnered her several industry ‘firsts’: the first Asian worldwide spokeswoman for Estée Lauder, the first Chinese model to appear in a Victoria's Secret fashion show, and the first Asian model ever to rank on Forbes' list of highest-paid women. She is also the very first Asian supermodel to get a Barbie doll produced in her image, joining Ashley Graham and Naomi Osaka in a limited-edition Role Model edition. Her doll, presented in March 2021, is clothed in a sea-green gown similar to the one she wore at the 2014 Gala.

Liu is one of the highest-paid models in fashion, with 5.2 million Instagram followers and 26 million Weibo followers. "Although a lot of Asian models have entered the fashion world, her name continues to be spoken; everyone [in the fashion industry] will ask, 'How about Liu Wen?' a CEO said.

Fashion critics ascribes Liu's perseverance to her willpower. "She is very polished. Her persistence and desire - these values are brought to us during our childhood education in China. It is not about achieving instant success; it is about putting in the time and effort necessary to lay the groundwork for your future."

Years active: 2005 - present

Age: 34