Daphne Selfe, recognized as the world’s oldest professional model, has died at the age of 97.
She passed away on March 21, 2026, according to a notice shared on her Instagram account.
Returned to modeling in her 70s
According to People, her children confirmed that Selfe died in a residential care home. Just months earlier, she had completed her final modeling job in June 2025, attending a Vogue luncheon at Royal Ascot.
In a heartfelt tribute, her family reflected on her passing, writing: “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.”
They also noted, “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.” The message concluded: “She will continue to inspire, always and forever.”
The statement was signed by her children, Mark, Claire and Rose, as well as her grandchildren Jack, Alec, Grace and Robin.
Born in London in 1928 and raised in Berkshire, Selfe began modeling at 21 after being discovered while working in a department store.
After marrying in 1954, she stepped away from the industry to raise her family, though she occasionally appeared in commercials and small film roles.
Following her husband’s death in 1997, she returned to modeling in her 70s and went on to achieve even greater success. She appeared at major fashion events, including London Fashion Week, and signed with a leading agency.
Reflecting on her later-life success, Selfe once said she “had more modeling success since I was 70 than I ever did when I was 20.”
She added, “I became successful when I embraced my age and went gray,” noting, “It made me more striking.”
In a 2023 interview, she also shared her approach to longevity, saying,
“I like a glass of champagne. Only occasionally, if it’s somebody’s birthday. Or my birthday.” She emphasized the importance of staying social as well, explaining, “I’m a great one for socializing, and getting my friends together, even if it’s only for a coffee. And I do like to have a party.”
Daphne was officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest model and was honored with the British Empire Medal. In 2015, she founded the Daphne Selfe Academy, creating opportunities for women of all ages to learn about and pursue careers in the fashion industry.
Even into her 90s, Selfe remained active and engaged, once telling Prince William that she had no plans to retire — a response he reportedly called “amazing.”
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