The New Natural Wonders of the World

More than 250 sites are in the running to be named among the New 7 Wonders of Nature, as part of a three-year contest whose winners are expected to be announced in 2011. Here are some of our favorite contenders.

Great Barrier Reef: The world's largest coral reef system, the Great Barrier Reef is home to over 1,500 species of fish, 200 species of birds and numerous species of whales, dolphins and sea turtles. It extends about 1,250 miles along the coast of Queensland, Australia, and spans a total area of about 14,300 square miles. The reef has historically been a well-protected, pristine haven for delicate coral and abundant marine life. However, this habitat is at risk due to overfishing and pollution, in addition to rising sea temperatures likely caused by global warming.

The Camargue: This river delta located in southern France is Western Europe's largest, at 360 square miles. Designated as a botanical and zoological nature reserve, it's home to wild bulls, white horses and more than 400 species of birds. Salt marshes in the southeast corner of the Camargue have produced salt since antiquity. Walking and cycling paths make this park popular with bird watchers, cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts; bring your insect repellent, however, as the mosquitoes here can be fierce.

Erg Chebbi: This portion of the Sahara desert is located in southeastern Morocco. Distinctive ergs — large dunes formed by wind-blown sand — reach nearly 500 feet high. The village of Merzouga, about four hours from Marrakesh, is located on the edge of these distinctive dunes. Tourists flock here for the opportunity to camp, ride camels and view the incredible sunsets and sunrises over the otherworldly landscape. Local legend says that the dunes were formed to punish locals for turning away a wayward traveler, and that they're a reminder to never again dismiss weary visitors.

Mount Everest: The highest mountain on Earth (29,035 feet) is part of the Himalaya range, located on the border between Nepal and Tibet. Mount Everest attracts climbers of all levels, from experienced mountaineers to novice trekkers willing to pay substantial fees to professional guides to help them complete a successful climb. Expeditions sometimes end in tragedy, however, as weather conditions can deteriorate quickly on the mountain.

Black Forest: Germany's Black Forest (Schwarzwald) takes its name from the dark, dense stands of spruce and fir that cover its slopes. It covers a nearly 3,000-square-mile mountainous area, bordered by the Rhine River to the west and the Swiss border to the south. Its highest peak is the mountain Feldberg, with an elevation of 4,898 feet. Since World War II, air pollution, especially from automobile emissions, has done extensive damage to the trees.

Milford Sound: This South Island fjord, created by receding glaciers, is one of New Zealand's best-known scenic attractions. With an annual rainfall of 270 inches, Milford Sound is also one of the wettest places in the world. It stretches nine miles inland from the Tasman Sea, and is most easily visited by boat tours that last one to two hours. Visitors can enjoy gazing up the sheer rock walls that rise 3,900 feet or more on each side, and may catch a glimpse of the seals, penguins and dolphins that inhabit these waters.

Okavango Delta: The world's largest inland delta — it empties into the Kalahari Desert — was part of an ancient lake that dried up 10,000 years ago, and is now one of Africa's top safari destinations. The waters of the Okavango Delta in Botswana are subject to seasonal flooding that increase its area from 3,500 to over 6,500 square miles. With its abundance of water, it supports a large concentration of wildlife. Visitors may glimpse crocodiles, lions, elephants and hippos in addition to over 400 species of birds.

Niagara Falls: Niagara Falls was created by the same glacial activity that formed the Great Lakes 10,000 years ago. A popular tourist destination, especially for honeymooners, the falls are on the border of the U.S. and Canada. Horseshoe Falls, on the Canadian side, is about 2,600 feet wide, while the American Falls is 1,060 feet wide. Both face the Canadian shore, so the best views are available from the Canadian side of the Niagara River. For over a century, numerous daredevils have attempted to challenge the falls. Tightrope walkers, jumpers and, in 1901, the first person in a barrel — a schoolteacher from Michigan — have all risked the plunge.

Cappadocia: This region of Turkey features strange rock formations that some have called "fairy chimneys." Over the last 60 million years, Cappadocia has been shaped by geologic and volcanic events as well as weathering and erosion, creating these monoliths. Almost 2,000 years ago, Christians carved their first churches into these stones.

Mont Blanc: Western Europe's highest mountain, at 15,781 feet, lies between Italy and France in the Alps mountain range. The two countries are connected by both a 7 1/4-mile tunnel beneath the mountain, and a gondola across the nearby 12,600-foot Aiguille du Midi Mountain. Known as "the white lady" (La Dame Blanche in French; Monte Bianco in Italian), Mont Blanc is popular with climbers, skiers and snowboarders. In 2007, Europe's highest portable toilets were installed at 14,000 feet, aiming to serve 30,000 visitors annually.

Kalahari Desert: Covering parts of Botswana, Namibia and South Africa, the 350,000-square-mile Kalahari features a number of game preserves that are home to hyenas, lions, meerkats and antelopes, among other species of birds and reptiles that inhabit the region. Although called a desert, portions of the Kalahari receive more than 9.8 inches of precipitation per year — the normal standard for classifying a desert.

Yangtze River: At 3,900 miles, China's longest river is the third-longest in the world, behind only the Amazon and the Nile. It flows east from its source in Qinghai Province to the East China Sea, dividing northern and southern China. The Yangtze River has long been a major transportation artery, and today is one of the world's busiest waterways. The most impressive section of the river is the three Yangtze River gorges: Qutang Gorge, Wuxia Gorge and Xiling Gorge, collectively known as Sanxia, or the Three Gorges.

Amazon River: The world's largest river system is the main artery of the Amazon rain forest. It has more than 1,000 known tributaries, and 17 of those are at least 1,000 miles long. Spanning the borders of eight countries, the Amazon rain forest is home to more than 350 indigenous and ethnic groups that have lived there for thousands of years. It contains nearly 40,000 plant species and sustains the world's richest diversity of birds, freshwater fish and butterflies. Today, the region is threatened by rapid deforestation.

Galápagos Islands: This archipelago of volcanic islands straddles the equator 650 miles west of Ecuador. Popular with wildlife enthusiasts, it's home to many noteworthy species of flora and fauna, including flamingos, iguanas, blue-footed boobies and giant tortoises. Charles Darwin observed many species here as he developed his theory of evolution by natural selection. The Galápagos Islands have been described as one of the most unique, scientifically important and biologically outstanding areas on earth. Many travelers describe their time in the islands as a life-changing experience.

Cliffs of Moher: One of Ireland's top attractions, the Cliffs of Moher attracts more than 1 million visitors a year. The cliffs extend nearly five miles, reach a maximum height of 700 feet and are home to colonies of cliff-nesting seabirds, including Atlantic puffins. The new Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience allows tourists to get a bird's-eye view from the cliffs, as well as see the inside of underwater caves at the base of the cliffs, all from the comfortable interior of the visitor center.

Bikini Atoll: Part of the Marshall Islands just north of the equator in the Pacific Ocean, this atoll includes Bikini Island, which is famous for two reasons: First, in the 1940s and 1950s, several nuclear bombs were tested there, and second, the two-piece swimsuit was named after it in 1946. Prior to the first nuclear tests, the U.S. designated the lagoon as a ship graveyard during World War II. Today, the naval wrecks are popular with scuba divers. Though some residual radioactivity remains, measured levels have been deemed not hazardous.

Ayers Rock: The large sandstone formation of Ayers Rock (also known as Uluru) rises 1,142 feet from the desert. Its sheer size — with a circumference of 6 miles — dwarfs everything around it. This iconic monolith of Australia is one of the largest in the world. From dawn to dusk, it takes on a stunning range of red to brown shades with the changing light. Ayers Rock is sacred to the Aborigines of the area, who are known as the Anangu. In recent years, Uluru has also become popular with New Age practitioners.

Mount Fuji: Japan's highest mountain, at 12,388 feet, can be seen from Tokyo, 62 miles away, on a clear day. Its symmetrical snowcapped cone is often the subject of Japanese art, literature and poetry. An estimated 200,000 people climb the mountain each year. The mountain, a dormant volcano that last erupted in 1707, is surrounded by the Aokigahara forest, a large national park that's popular with hikers.

Loch Ness: This deep freshwater lake is part of the Caledonian Canal system that joins the North Sea with the Atlantic Ocean. Loch Ness is about 23 miles long and reaches to the northern Scottish city of Inverness. Since the early 1930s, it's been most famous for reports of a giant lake monster, which some believe was actually just a large sturgeon. However, the legend of the Loch Ness Monster persists today.

Bora Bora: This favorite island of romantics covers just 15 square miles. Located in French Polynesia in the Pacific Ocean, Bora Bora is surrounded by a lagoon and a barrier reef. Over-the-water bungalows are an iconic image of Bora Bora; many hotels have built structures on stilts in order to maximize their real estate. Motu Toopua, a fragment of the volcano that formed the island, rises nearly 3,000 feet in the center of the lagoon.

Grand Canyon: One of the top tourist attractions in the U.S., this mile-deep canyon has been carved by the Colorado River over the last 6 million years. Years of erosion have shaped the canyon's steep walls, exposing its red-hued rocks. The 277-mile-long canyon is visited by nearly 5 million people each year. Many view the awe-inspiring landscape from the canyon's rim, though hikers, mule riders and rafters can take advantage of recreational opportunities in the inner canyon.

Source: MSN

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Top 50 Male Models Of All Times

omVisibility. That's what it's all about. Though there are hundreds of male models booked for very good jobs everyday, only a choice group achieves that elusive ideal, booking those maximum visibility campaigns and editorials, shot by the world's most influential photographers. Visibility is what the smart model converts into dollars and longevity, driving up his catalogue rates and converting his status from fad to fixture. Tune into MODELS.com Top 50 listing and get the definitive fix on who those glamarous faces riding those giant billboards in ads for the star-making fashion giants (Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, DKNY, Gucci, Versace, Hugo Boss, Prada etc.), as well as gracing the pages of fashion bibles like Arena Homme Plus, L'Uomo Vogue,Vogues Hommes, V, Details, Dazed & Confused, The Face, GQ. At the same time get a glimpse of the promising new faces that will be winging your way in the next few months. And if you're missing out on your beloved favorites like Tyson Ballou, Gabriel Aubry,Ivan, Jason Shaw, Mark Vanderloo, Ryan Locke and Alex Lundquist then stay tuned for the unleashing of MDC's Top 50 Male Models Of All Times Listing. It's going to be epic! ( Updated March '09 )

 

50. Julian Hennig
New York:
Ford Models

Paris:
Ford Models Europe

Milan:
d'management group

The top tier clients (Prada and D&G) have been longtime fans of Julian's and his full lipped sensuality. His editorial stock continues to rise!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

49. Lasse Pedersen

New York:
DNA Models

Paris:
Ford Models Europe

Copenhagen:
UNIQUE DENMARK

Copenhagen:
UNIQUE DENMARK 

The ginger haired former MOTW is an editorial and runway force of nature. Appearing in some of the top men's style bibles of the past season and on so many of the blue chip catwalks, it's obvious the Danish beauty will be on our radar for some time to come.

 

 

48. Luiz Afonso Schwab

New York:
New York Model Management

You would never guess from looking at him that he's a very successful sheep farmer down in Brazil. This is part of Luiz's allure, his very refreshing realness paired with one of the most beautiful male faces in recent memory to come out of Brazil. Coming off a fantastic F/W 09 show season, with Dior and Prada and a whole host of other blue chip designers clamoring over him, he is a rising star to watch indeed.

 

 

 

 

 

 

47. Nils Butler

New York:
DNA Models

Paris:
Ford Models Europe

Milan:
Why Not Model Management

Tokyo:
Bravo Models

It's almost a cliche to call call Nils Butler a sculpted beauty. With cheekbones that could cut glass, Nils' stock is certainly assured with the blue chip clients.

 

 

 

 

46. Guy Robinson 

New York:
Wilhelmina New York

Milan:
Why Not Model Management

Copenhagen:
2pm Model Management

With powerhouses like Mario Testino, Bruce Weber, Ralph Lauren and Versace behind this fresh faced Bristol student (and Cape London's star model) along with a recurring stint in the past 3 seasons for D&G, Guy looks like a long term favorite in the male modeling races. F/W 08: Iceberg with Mert and Marcus, Thomas Pinko with Phil Poynter

 

 

 

 

45. Salieu Jalloh

New York:
Red Model Management

Editorials, shows, campaigns. Salieu Jalloh is one of those great models who can do it all. Look for this young man from Sierra Leone to only get better!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

44. Steve Gold

New York:
Major Model Management

Milan:
Beatrice Models

Hamburg:
Kult Model Agency

Tokyo:
Bravo Models

Fashion loves a comeback kid. Or in this case, a comeback hunk of a man named Steve Gold. Look for him and Amber Valetta in Iceberg strutting their supermodel stuff.

 

 

 

43. Julius Beckers

New York:
Red Model Management

Milan:
Fashion

This young German, the son of 2 doctors, has already channeled their hardworking genes. Julius managed to shoot Prada eyewear campaign with Meisel and walked for D&G, Prada, Gucci, Jil Sander, Lanvin and Louis Vuitton, amongst others, all while maintaining his top notch grades at school. Julius is a perfect example of excellence in all areas of his life. F/W 08: Prada Eyewear with Steven Meisel

 

 

 

 

 

41. Alex Gilbert

London:
Select Model Management

This former MOTW has had a steady climb that's the ideal for the working model today. His textbook English elegance guarantees him a long career with the top clients around.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

40. Max Motta

New York:
Ford Models

Paris:
Ford Models Europe

Milan:
Why Not Model Management

Sao Paulo:
Ford Models Brasil

Copenhagen:
Scoop Models

This young Brazilian with the angelic locks has captivated clients such as Dior, Trussardi and Karl Lagerfeld. Holding 2 Dior Homme show exclusives 2 seasons in a row (S/S 09, F/W09)and a Trussardi show exclusive (F/W 09) is a testament to the buzz surrounding this rising star.

 

39. Dennis Johnson

New York:
New York Model Management

Paris:
Nathalie Models

Milan:
d'management group

Dennis' distinctive and dramatic look is a breed apart from so many models that look the same. With a phenomenal NY show season for F/W09, clients seem to be in full agreement. Funny and charming and we hear, very hardworking, this American has all the right ingredients to go the distance.

 

 

 

 

38. Tom Warren

New York:
Ford Models

London:
Models 1

Milan:
Why Not Model Management

Hamburg:
Mega Model Agency

Tokyo:
Donna Models

Copenhagen:
UNIQUE DENMARK

First appearing as MOTW in Feb 07, Tom Warren has had a phenomenal year since then. His Renaissance full lipped beauty has clients such as Pringle, Benetton and Dolce & Gabbana flocking to book this young English lad. Looks like Tom's plans for university are on hold as he conquers the fashion world. SS08 Dolce Gabbana F/W08: Dunhill, Ermenegildo Zegna

 

37. Niels Raabe

New York:
DNA Models

Paris:
Nathalie Models

Copenhagen:
2pm Model Management

Hamburg:
m4 models

London:
FM Agency

This former MOTW makes his leap onto the top 50 with the always starmaking vehicle Hugo Boss. Look for this young German to cut a swathe through the upcoming editorial season.

 

37. Chris Folz

New York:
Ford Models

Milan:
Fashion

Paris:
Success Models

Hamburg:
Kult Model Agency

Copenhagen:
2pm Model Management

Chris Folz's mixture of charisma and movie star looks has charmed the likes of Mario Testino, Hugo Boss and V Magazine; a win win situation for the all American from Indiana.

 

 

36. Kerry Degman

New York:
Major Model Management

Kerry is so very...perfect. Clients as varied as Hugo Boss, Armani Exchange, Just Cavalli and Ralph Lauren have spoken: Kerry Degman is a young man most wanted.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

35. Laurent Albucher

New York:
Request Model Management NY

London:
Models 1

Milan:
Why Not Model Management

Brussels:
IMM Bruxelles

Copenhagen:
Scoop Models

Hamburg:
m4 models

Paris:
Success Models

Laurent Albucher's sophisticated appearance belies his bucolic origins from the French countryside. His classic beauty moves the product as evidenced in such varied clients as Calvin Klein, the Gap and French Connection. The best thing? He's as sweet as he is stunning. S/S08: CK Calvin Klein by David Sims F/W08: Gap with Mikael Jansson, French Connection

 

34. Pablo Contreras

New York:
Request Model Management NY

Pablo's arresting image for the current Givenchy campaign is what directional fashion is all about. What we can see clearly, even with the unconventional haircut and expression, is Pablo's undeniable star power.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

34. Jakob Wiechmann

Jakob's been building up quite an editorial book recently with appearances in 10 Men, L'Officiel Hommes and Dazed and Confused. His appearance in this season's Givenchy cements him as a young star to watch.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

33. Jonatan Frenk

New York:
Next Models NY

London:
Models 1

Milan:
Fashion

Tokyo:
Bravo Models

Paris:
Success Models

Copenhagen:
Scoop Models

A rock star's haircut and presence all works for this young Swedish musician. A starring role in the current Gucci by Ines and Vinoodh seals the deal.

 

32. Julien Quevenne

New York:
Ford Models

London:
Select Model Management

Milan:
Why Not Model Management

Barcelona:
Traffic Models

Copenhagen:
2pm Model Management

Brussels:
IMM Bruxelles

Hamburg:
PMA

After several stellar seasons on the European runways and campaigns with D2, Daks and Kenzo, the sensual French stunner (with the full lips seemingly requisite of all the new male stars) is definitely a current client must-have. F/W07: DSquared with Steven Meisel S/S08: Daks F/W08: Frankie Morello

 

31. Jeremy Young

London:
Models 1

Milan:
Fashion

Hamburg:
Kult Model Agency

Paris:
Success Models

Jeremy's steel blue eyes, square jawed handsomeness and intensity all serve as a magnet for clients like Burberry and the host of blue chip designers that lined up to book him for men's shows F/W 09.

 

 

 

30. Joseph Culp

New York:
Fusion Models

Milan:
d'management group

Paris:
Success Models

In person, this mild mannered Southern young gentlemen is low key. In front of the camera and on the runway, Joseph transforms and the essence of a male supermodel emerges. The clients are starting to realize this too with fans like Numero, Another, V, Jil Sander, Marc by Marc and Vman lobbying behind him. We look forward to his ascendancy. F/W08: Tse with David Sims, New Man with Alasdair McClellan

 

29. Gordon Bothe

New York:
New York Model Management

Paris:
Nathalie Models

Milan:
Beatrice Models

Copenhagen:
Scoop Models

Direct from Sweden, he of the feline eyes has the industry tastemakers mesmerized. This former MOTW's turn in the current CK Jeans campaign definitely anoints him as a rising star. F/W08: CK Jeans with Steven Meisel, Lacoste with Terry Richardson, D&G with Mario Testino, Benetton with David Sims

 

29. Eddie Tucker

New York:
Major Model Management

Milan:
Fashion

Los Angeles:
Nous Model Management

Barcelona:
Traffic Models

Copenhagen:
2pm Model Management

Hamburg:
Kult Model Agency

London:
Nevs

Hailing from Kent, England, Eddie's a carpenter by trade whose recent accomplishments in the fashion industry has him putting his hammer on hold for a while. Arena Hommes +, ID, 10, David Sims, Calvin Klein, Jil Sander and Prada are just a few of the industry's elite who are fans of this young English lad. With his Emporio Armani campaign this season running everywhere, expect Eddie star to keep rising.

 

28. Vladimir Ivanov 

New York:
Wilhelmina New York

Paris:
Ford Models Europe

Milan:
Elite Milan

Copenhagen:
2pm Model Management

OTM has not seen such a buzz surrounding a male model in quite some time. Charismatic, energetic with the face of a Renaissance angel, Vladimir is set to light the industry on fire.

 

 

 

27. Eddie Klint

New York:
DNA Models

Paris:
Ford Models Europe

Madrid:
Group Model Management

Milan:
d'management group

London:
FM Agency

Hamburg:
Kult Model Agency

Copenhagen:
UNIQUE DENMARK

You cannot but love a 19 year old instant sensation from Copenhagen who was training to be a chef in between pursuing his passion for Parkour (that's the all out French urban sport involving high ledges and steep walls). All that is in the past now that Eddie is the chosen face of the Prada FW 06 collection as well as the just launched Prada male fragrance. Add his L'Uomo Vogue cover, his edits for Pop, GQ Style, Another Man, Arena Homme+ and 10 with the blue chip circle of Steven Meisel, Willy Vanderperre, Paolo Roversi and Steven Klein and you'll see why his star is shining so brightly. FW07 Daks, Prada fragrance SS08 Belstaff by Steven Meisel, Joop and Joop Jeans by Craig McDean, Levi's Blue, Theory

 

26. Reid Prebenda

New York:
Red Model Management

Milan:
Fashion

Los Angeles:
Vision LA

London:
FM Agency

Paris:
Success Models

Arena Homme+, David Sims and Inez and Vinoodh are just several of the clients catapulting this agency and its rising young star to the attention of the fashion elite. SS08 Burberry with Josh Olins FW08 Belstaff with Steven Meisel, Benetton with David Sims (stylist Karl Templar), Z Zegna with Terry Richardson

 

25. Matvey Lykov

New York:
Fusion Models

Hamburg:
m4 models

Copenhagen:
Scoop Models

Paris:
Success Models

Matvey's stellar S/S09 season coupled with his only guy appearance in the Jil Sander campaign is a guarantee that the angular sensation will be most coveted in the coming months. F/W08: Jil Sander with Willy Vanderperre

 

 

 

24. Ollie Edwards

New York:
VNY Model Management

Paris:
Ford Models Europe

London:
FM Agency

Copenhagen:
2pm Model Management

Milan:
d'management group

London:
FM Agency

The beautiful Brit with the perfect skin has been on MDC's radar for a while now. In a recent editorial, he rides a motorcycle like a pro AND in person eminently charming. With a killer combination of bad boy/good boy energy and a slew of editorials and campaigns coming out, expect Ollie to explode in the coming months. F/W08: Polo Ralph Lauren with Arnaldo Anaya Luca, Y3 with Craig McDean, Trussardi Eyewear with Milan Vukmirovic, Ralph Lauren Purple Label with Arnaldo Anaya Luca

 

23. Marlon Teixeira

New York:
Wilhelmina New York

London:
Premier Model Management

Paris:
Marilyn Agency

Milan:
Fashion

Hamburg:
Kult Model Agency

Sao Paulo:
Way Model Management

Sao Paulo:
Way Model Management

Former MOTW Marlon's bronzed Brazilian beach vibe somehow totally works with the avant garde Dior Homme brand. A study in contrasts? It's fashion at its best!

 

22. Rogier Bosschaart

New York:
VNY Model Management

London:
FM Agency

Copenhagen:
UNIQUE DENMARK

Paris:
Success Models

There are those people who in pictures turn into magical creatures whose every angular line in their face is a photographer's dream. Rogier, the unique face out of Holland is poised for a breakout season. F/W07: Prada with Steven Meisel F/W08: Loewe with Phil Poynter, Prada Infusion d'Homme fragrance with Steven Meisel, CK Jeans with Steven Meisel, Mulberry with Steven Meisel, GF Ferre with Steven Meisel

 

21. Blaine Cook

New York:
Major Model Management

Milan:
Beatrice Models

Hamburg:
Kult Model Agency

Brussels:
IMM Bruxelles

London:
Nevs

Former MOTW Blaine gained rapid ground these past 6 months, netting memorable SS08, FW08 show seasons in Europe. With his recent appearance on the Italian Vogue cover and his cool Teutonic beauty in the main line Calvin campaign mark him as must book immediately! S/S08: Calvin Klein main line collection with Fabien Baron F/W08: Calvin Klein main line collection with Fabien Baron

 

20. Travone Hill

New York:
DNA Models

Travone's turns in 2 CK campaigns this season place him as a face to watch. His movie star appeal is obvious from the second he enters a room.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

19. Jamie Dornan

London:
Select Model Management

Highlighting the CK jeans with Kate Moss 2 times while squiring Keira Knightley around made the Irish star THE man about town. Add to that his acting turn in Marie Antoinette and his exploits as a singer and what you have is a man made for the spotlight. With his current turn in mainline Giorgio Armani, it's obvious that the blue chip clients continue to line up Mr. Dornan.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

18. Adrian Bosch

New York:
Ford Models

London:
Models 1

Paris:
Ford Models Europe

Milan:
Beatrice Models

Hamburg:
m4 models

Copenhagen:
2pm Model Management

Barcelona:
Traffic Models

From day one, Adrian has been one of those boys whose presence clients started bidding feverishly for. When the dust cleared it was Hedi Slimane at Dior who had exclusive dibs on this Spanish-Danish stunner which means this is his moment to shine. Stay tuned for the next step in his evolution. SS08 Tse with Alasdair McLellan, Paul & Joe, Cos with Willy Vanderperre (stylist Joe McKenna) FW08 Hugo Boss with Mario Sorrenti.

 

17. Lenz von Johnston

New York:
VNY Model Management

Milan:
Beatrice Models

London:
FM Agency

The young German has captivated the fashion elite with his sleek visage for CK Calvin Klein.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

16. Luke Worrall

New York:
VNY Model Management

Milan:
Beatrice Models

London:
d1 Model Management

In the ever shifting world of male modeling, the ability to stand out and make a statement is an uncommon occurrence indeed. D1's first breakout star Luke lands in top 50 with the requisite covers (2 for Dazed + Confused), campaigns (Marc Jacobs, Topman, Custo), top shows (Marc by Marc, etc), and story (in ID magazine Feb08). Welcome to the club, Mr. Worell. SS08 Marc Jacobs, Topman, Custo Barcelona covers: Arena Homme + with Juergen Teller (S/S08) FW08 Juicy Couture

 

 

 

 

 

15. Jamie Strachan

New York:
Next Models NY

London:
Select Model Management

Milan:
d'management group

Highlighted in the Tommy Jean ads, Calvin Klein, Kenzo, Rykiel Homme and in the Hugo Boss ads, Jamie is the kind of rare find that has even other competing agents buzzing. SS08 CP Company F/W08: Jaeger

 

 

 

 

 

 

14. Cole Mohr

New York:
Request Model Management NY

Milan:
Beatrice Models

London:
FM Agency

Copenhagen:
UNIQUE DENMARK

Cole's indisputably unique features and angular leanness made him a runway must have for SS08. FW07 Margaret Howell, H&M w/Terry Richardson FW08 Marc by Marc Jacobs with Juergen Teller

 

 

 

 

 

 

13. Tyler Riggs

New York:
Red Model Management

Milan:
Fashion

Paris:
Success Models

Tyler Riggs is one cool as hell dude. The naturally stylish tattoed American, appearing on MDC's radar back in December 07, has converted the last year into a blue chip bonanza with a campaign for D&G, walking for top designers like Jil Sander, Gucci and Givenchy and editorials for L'Officiel Hommes. Look for 2009 to be a fast climb to the top of the heap for this young man. S/S 08: Topman with Alasdair McLellan F/W 08: D&G with Mario Testino, Topman

 

 

 

 

12. Ash Stymest

London:
Select Model Management

Milan:
Why Not Model Management

Since MDC's first preview of Ash in August 08, the young English lad has landed a dizzying amount of top editorials along with 2 covers in a mere 4 months. With the the bluest of the blue chip circling the young musician/skateboarder, look for this force of nature to supernova in Spring 2009.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11. Mathias Bergh

New York:
Wilhelmina New York

Paris:
Ford Models Europe

Copenhagen:
2pm Model Management

Hamburg:
Mega Model Agency

The top tastemakers in the business have spoken (think Meisel, Inez and Vinoodh, Gucci, Ferre) and this Swedish dream with the perfect face is currently in 3 campaigns for S/S 09, landing him most coveted status immediately.

 

 

 

 

11. Taylor Fuchs

New York:
Wilhelmina New York
Milan:
Why Not Model Management
Copenhagen:
2pm Model Management
Paris:
Success Models

Named one of the top breakout boys of SS08 by V Magazine, with "a feline beauty uncommonly seen", Canada's Taylor Fuchs has one of the most amazing faces in the industry right this minute. Look for him at the forefront of the new generation. FW07 Pringle with Steven Meisel, D&G SS08 Benetton with David Sims, GFFerre with David Sims FW08 Valentino with Peter Lindbergh, Kenzo with Yelena Yemchuk, DKNY Jeans with Mikael Jansson, Filippa K

 

 

 

10. Simon Nessman

New York:
Major Model Management
Paris:
Ford Models Europe
Milan:
Beatrice Models
Brussels:
IMM Bruxelles

This pre-Raphaelite beauty exudes an innocence and romantic beauty unlike any other model out there. We love that the former MOTW keeps his curls intact. Important to remain inimitable, no? SS08: D&G with Mario Testino, Lord and Taylor with Mario Testino F/W08: Givenchy with Willy Vanderperre

 

 

 

9. Danny Schwarz

New York:
VNY Model Management
Brussels:
IMM Bruxelles
Milan:
d'management group

This young Englishman's rapid rise with 4 campaigns this season (3 of them with Mr.Meisel) catapults him onto the request list of all the blue chip clients. Dashingly handsome with a dazzling charm, MDC predicts a long run for this one.

 

 

 

 

 

 

8. Josh Beech

London:
Models 1
Milan:
d'management group
Paris:
Success Models
Copenhagen:
UNIQUE DENMARK

The ultra charismatic Josh Beech is the epitome of rough-around the edges masculinity and the essence of London cool. The lead singer of the rock band Snish, he oozes that old fashioned rock sexuality all while balancing a full chart of nonstop modeling options. With the buzzed about Vogue Hommes International cover and editorials galore, this maverick young English lad is most definitely coveted, right this moment.

 

7. David Gandy

New York:
DNA Models
London:
Select Model Management
Milan:
Why Not Model Management
Barcelona:
Traffic Models
Brussels:
IMM Bruxelles

When the average person knows your name, you know you've arrived as a male model. David Gandy's appearance in the Dolce & Gabbana ads shot by Steven Meisel jumpstarted the current spotlight on this handsome Englishman. With his Vman story, "The Making of a Male Supermodel and his "Light Blue" fragrance ads for Dolce, David's becoming a must book for all the topflight clients.

 

6. Boyd Holbrook

New York:
Wilhelmina New York
Milan:
d'management group
Copenhagen:
2pm Model Management
Paris:
Major Paris

The star making team of Ines Van Lamsweerde/Vinoodh Matadin and Hedi Slimane at Dior Homme anointed their male ideal in the form of Boyd, the All-American beauty, hailing from Kentucky. Currently, an editorial workhorse, Boyd continues to grace the pages of the best fashion bibles and in campaigns like the Gap and Viktor and Rolf's fragrance, Antidote. FW08: Viktor & Rolf fragrance "Antidote" contract, Dsquared2 with Steven Meisel, Joop Jeans with Inez van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin

 

5. AJ Abualrub

New York:
Ford Models
Milan:
d'management group
Copenhagen:
Scoop Models
London:
Nevs

One of the first Ford/V Man magazine finalists, the strikingly handsome American with the ice blue eyes has an undefinable charisma, a sentiment certainly shared by Calvin Klein as AJ fronts their S/S 09 campaign. A wrestler brimming with the athlete's self confidence, AJ brings a much needed frisson of energy to the industry.

 

 

 

4. Jon Kortajarena

New York:
Wilhelmina New York
Milan:
Beatrice Models
Paris:
Success Models
Copenhagen:
UNIQUE DENMARK
Hamburg:
PMA
Brussels:
IMM Bruxelles  

200 pages and the cover of L'Officiel Homme. Five campaigns on the stands at once (Bally, Trussardi, Etro, Guess and the new Tom Ford). With the heartthrob handsomeness of a young Anthony Delon, Jon leaps directly to the head of the modeling class. FW07: Guess with Yu Tsai SS08: Bally, Etro, Tom Ford, Guess with Yu Tsai, Trussardi F/W08: John Richmond, Jean Paul Gaultier Jeans, Tom Ford Menswear with Solve Sundsbo, Guess, Carlo Pignatelli

 

3. Mat Gordon

New York:
DNA Models
Milan:
d'management group
Copenhagen:
UNIQUE DENMARK
Paris:
Success Models
London:
FM Agency
Brussels:
IMM Bruxelles

Mat Gordon had a stellar showing at the SS08 men's shows, opening the Gucci show and then transferring that visibility into a slot in the campaign. With a repeat season for Gucci, this Canadian star has certainly lived up to his OTM advance billing. Paco Rabanne fragrance Escada fragrance Gieves and Hawkes Ben Sherman F/W07: Gucci, Tommy Hilfiger S/S08: Gucci with Inez van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin, Zegna, Tommy Hilfiger F/W08: Paco Rabanne with Nathaniel Goldberg, Tommy Hilfiger with Dewey Nicks, Pringle with Steven Meisel

 

2. Garrett Neff

New York:
CLICK

Garrett's sculpted form instantly reminds us of the iconic Calvin ads. Top photographers like Bruce Weber, Karl Lagerfeld, Mario Testino and Mert & Marcus and clients such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Michael Kors and Visionare already fans of this classic American beauty. He's having a moment, this one. Past campaigns: Benetton with David Sims, Lagerfeld with Karl Lagerfeld S/S08 Calvin Klein Man fragrance with Fabien Baron, CK Jeans with David Sims F/W08: Calvin Klein Man fragrance with Fabien Baron, Calvin Klein Underwear with Bruce Weber

 

 

 

 

 

 

2. Sean O'Pry

New York:
VNY Model Management

Named GQ Style's 2007 "Man for the Season", Sean O'Pry's rapid ascent onto the industry's hot list has been nothing short of spectacular. Charming and outgoing with the face that belongs on a Renaissance statue, this young American has some major players interested in him. With the main line Calvin campaign, Sean's blue chip moment has arrived. F/W07 Calvin Klein by Craig McDean S/S08 Belstaff by Steven Meisel, D2 by Steven Meisel, Ferre by David Sims F/W08: Giorgio Armani with Mert and Marcus, Trussardi with Milan Vukmirovic

 

 

 

 

 

1. Mathias Lauridsen

New York:
New York Model Management
Paris:
Ford Models Europe
Copenhagen:
Scoop Models

Mathias is male modeling's all purpose man, mastering the art of runway, editorials AND campaigns. After being one of the most consistent male models in the last three years, Mathias has flourished into full blue chip stardom this season as the point man for Gucci S/S 07. Logging multiple campaigns for six seasons in a row, this man is the very definition of "fixture" in the male modeling business. All hail.

 

 

Source: Models  

  

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