Just Who Is...Karen Elson?

Monday 10th November 2008 - 16:35:04

The model and singer with flaming red hair, green eyes and pale skin, that's who Karen Elson is. But what else do we know about the British model?

Well for starters she is approaching 30, is married to White Stripes frontman, Jack White, has two children, oh and is fiercely proud of her British roots.

In fact, you won't catch the stunning model speaking with an American twang, even though she lives in Nashville with her family, she's British through and through.

Which is just as well really as, she was born in Oldam, Manchester and is really proud of her history in the North West.

Elson has a kind of different beauty that you don't see everyday in the fickle world of fashion. The only other famous redhead is Lily Cole, but even she would have a long way to go to match up to Elson's varied portfolio.

In 1998 she won the model of the year at the VH1 fashion awards, and funnily enough it was the year after a little-known model named Kate Moss won the award previously. Clearly the judging panel have great taste and know what's set to be big in fashion.

Karen has graced the runway of many designers including Marc Jacobs (which she did while pregnant), Chanel, Dolce & Gabanna and Versace. This is in addition to appearing on the cover of Vogue, Elle and Marie Claire on numerous occasions.

What's clear is that Elson does not take herself too seriously, which is easily done when you're one of the most in-demand faces in the world. An example of this is when fashion photographer Steven Meisel, once persuaded her to shave her trademark eyebrows off for a shoot and Elson obliged.

In 2005 she continued her success by winning the British Fashion Award for Best Model, over newcomers such as Lily Donaldson and Danny Beauchamp.

It's unsurprising that she remains in favour with the fashion elite, as she has a uniqueness about her, none more so than when she spoke out about how damaging the fashion industry can be to young women.

Elson suffered numerous eating disorders through her teen years, with the intensity and obsession with food increasing once she became famous. She has since overcome them and is now happily married with two healthy children.

She has also appeared in many short films and videos over the years, including the music video for The White Stripes's "Blue Orchid". It was during this period that she met her husband-to-be, Jack White and they married in 2005.

Elson has also contributed to Nick Knight's SHOWstudio since 2002. Her most notable contribution, entitled 'Moving Fashion' featured a black and white video of herself swinging on a swing in a sequined gown. Elson also sang a verse of Marlene Dietrich's "Falling In Love Again."

Last month Elson took over managing a vintage boutique in Nashville, Tennessee with Amy Patterson. The funky shop features rare vintage clothing, that is both cheap and cheerful, entitled Venus & Mars- The Showroom.

FemaleFirst- Laura Terry