For decades, beauty and influence have been measured by more than just appearances. The most iconic women in history have shaped culture, fashion, and society in ways that transcend the screen or stage. A recent public ranking sheds light on the 20 women who continue to captivate hearts and minds with their elegance, talent, and legacy. From Old Hollywood legends to modern powerhouses, here’s a look at the women who’ve defined their generations—and still inspire us today.

20. Audrey Hepburn — The Unforgettable Icon of Elegance

Topping the list is Audrey Hepburn, the eternal icon of grace and glamour. Best known for her roles in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” and “Roman Holiday,” Hepburn brought not only talent but also a timeless style to the screen. Beyond Hollywood, she dedicated much of her later life to humanitarian work with UNICEF, adding depth to her beauty and fame. Her elegant fashion choices continue to inspire designers and fans around the world. Decades later, Audrey remains a gold standard of charm and sophistication.

Step into timeless elegance with the top 10 most iconic Audrey Hepburn and Givenchy looks—this video celebrates a legendary fashion duo that defined classic Hollywood style!

19. Raquel Welch — The 60s Sex Symbol Who Owned the Spotlight

Raquel Welch turned heads with her unforgettable presence in the 1960s. Known for her powerful roles and smoldering screen presence, she quickly became a pop culture icon. She won a Golden Globe and also made a mark as a model and presenter. Welch’s bold image pushed boundaries for women in Hollywood, celebrating strength alongside beauty. Her influence on both fashion and film endures to this day.

18. Grace Kelly — The Princess Who Paused Hollywood

Before becoming Princess of Monaco, Grace Kelly enchanted audiences with her performances in films like “Rear Window” and “To Catch a Thief.” Her transition from Hollywood royalty to actual royalty only amplified her mystique. Grace combined elegance, talent, and poise, setting a benchmark for generations to come. Her legacy continues through fashion retrospectives and royal documentaries. Kelly remains a beloved symbol of refined beauty.

17. Marilyn Monroe — The Eternal Flame of Pop Culture

A true symbol of sensuality, Marilyn Monroe captivated the world with her performances in “Some Like It Hot” and “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes.” Her image—blonde curls, red lips, and a playful smile—became cultural shorthand for glamour. Despite her tragic end, Monroe’s influence remains powerful across fashion, film, and music. She defined 1950s beauty standards and remains one of Hollywood’s most referenced stars.

Relive one of Hollywood’s most unforgettable moments with Marilyn Monroe in this iconic scene—timeless, glamorous, and forever etched in film history!

16. Scarlett Johansson — The Modern Siren of the Silver Screen

Scarlett Johansson is the modern-day embodiment of screen magnetism. From her dramatic work in “Marriage Story” to action-packed roles like Black Widow in the Marvel universe, Johansson has shown remarkable range. She topped Forbes’ list of highest-paid actresses and was named one of Time’s most influential people. Her combination of classic beauty and contemporary edge makes her a standout figure in today’s entertainment world.

15. Charlize Theron — From Ballet Dreams to Oscar Gold

Charlize Theron’s rise from model to Oscar-winning actress is nothing short of inspiring. Known for her fearless transformations, she stunned audiences with roles in “Monster” and “Mad Max: Fury Road.” She’s also a producer and activist, lending her voice to important global causes. Charlize’s beauty is undeniable, but it’s her strength and commitment to her craft that elevate her legacy.

14. Sophia Loren — The Italian Icon Who Redefined Sensuality

Sophia Loren brought fiery Mediterranean beauty to the forefront during Hollywood’s Golden Age. With her deep eyes and expressive features, she starred in classics like “Two Women” and won an Academy Award. Loren’s passionate screen presence and effortless elegance made her an international superstar. She continues to inspire actresses and fashion designers worldwide.

13. Catherine Zeta-Jones — A Glamorous Force to Be Reckoned With

Welsh actress Catherine Zeta-Jones exudes timeless glamour. Known for roles in “Chicago” and “The Mask of Zorro,” she commands attention with every performance. A Tony and Academy Award winner, Zeta-Jones blends sensuality with sophistication. Her marriage to Michael Douglas and enduring popularity keep her in the public eye as a style icon and acting powerhouse.

12. Salma Hayek — Fiery, Fearless, and Flawless

Salma Hayek broke barriers for Latina actresses in Hollywood. With her magnetic performance in “Frida,” she earned an Academy Award nomination and global respect. Hayek is not only known for her beauty but also her activism and production work. She has consistently appeared on beauty rankings while championing diversity and women’s rights.

11. Jessica Alba — The Reluctant Bombshell Who Wanted More

Jessica Alba became a household name with roles in “Fantastic Four” and “Sin City.” While admired for her looks, Alba sought to redefine her public image through entrepreneurship. As co-founder of The Honest Company, she promotes ethical consumerism and family health. Alba proves that beauty paired with brains can build an influential legacy.

Countdown the top 10 Jessica Alba movies in this must-watch video—celebrating her most unforgettable roles, from action-packed hits to heartfelt fan favorites!

10. Elizabeth Hurley — The English Rose With Magnetic Appeal

Elizabeth Hurley lit up red carpets in the ’90s with her bold fashion choices—most famously a safety-pin Versace dress. Her acting in films like “Austin Powers” and TV roles like in “Gossip Girl” kept her in the spotlight. A model, businesswoman, and mother, Hurley maintains her allure and relevance even decades into her career.

9. Michelle Pfeiffer — Cool, Captivating, and Unforgettable

Michelle Pfeiffer’s breakthrough came with “Scarface,” but her talent solidified her place among the greats in films like “The Fabulous Baker Boys” and “Dangerous Liaisons.” Regarded for both her beauty and acting chops, she was among the highest-paid actresses of the 1990s. Pfeiffer has aged gracefully, appearing on magazine covers well into her 40s and beyond.

8. Jaclyn Smith — The Angel Who Became an Enduring Style Icon

Best known as one of the original “Charlie’s Angels,” Jaclyn Smith brought beauty and strength to the small screen. Starting as a model, she became a TV sensation in the 1970s. She later ventured into fashion and business, building her brand beyond acting. Smith remains an enduring face of classic American television.

7. Natalie Portman — Brilliance, Ballet, and Beauty in Harmony

Natalie Portman balances elegance with intellect. A Harvard graduate and Oscar winner, Portman is known for roles in “Black Swan” and “V for Vendetta.” She also speaks out on social issues and supports female empowerment in film. Her beauty is matched by her intelligence and poise, making her a modern icon.

6. Elizabeth Taylor — The Violet-Eyed Empress of Classic Cinema

Elizabeth Taylor’s violet eyes and commanding presence defined a generation of Hollywood glamour. A two-time Academy Award winner, she starred in epics like “Cleopatra” and “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” Her personal life often made headlines, but her humanitarian work, especially with HIV/AIDS, cemented her legacy as more than just a star.

5. Kate Beckinsale — A Lethal Combination of Brains and Beauty

British actress Kate Beckinsale is known for both her wit and her good looks. From “Pearl Harbor” to the “Underworld” franchise, she has displayed both charm and action-hero toughness. Her fashion sense and sense of humor make her a favorite among fans and journalists alike. Beckinsale often tops beauty polls and continues to work steadily.

4. Halle Berry — The Queen Who Broke Every Mold

Halle Berry broke barriers as the first Black woman to win an Oscar for Best Actress for her role in “Monster’s Ball.” A former pageant queen and model, she’s also known for action roles in “X-Men” and “John Wick.” Berry’s resilience in both career and personal life has earned her admiration across generations.

3. Jane Seymour — Royal Grace Meets Prime-Time Power

Jane Seymour rose to fame as a Bond girl in “Live and Let Die” and later charmed audiences in “Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman.” Her elegance and British poise have kept her in the spotlight for decades. She’s also a writer and entrepreneur, reflecting her many talents. Seymour remains a beloved figure in both the UK and the US.

2. Natalie Wood — The Tragic Luminary of Young Hollywood

Natalie Wood’s acting career began in childhood, and she became a household name by her teens. Roles in “West Side Story” and “Rebel Without a Cause” made her one of the most admired actresses of her generation. Her untimely death only added to her mystique. Wood is remembered for her emotional depth and striking beauty.

1. Diane Lane — The Early Blooming Starlet Who Never Faded

Diane Lane captured attention early with “A Little Romance” and maintained her star power with films like “Unfaithful” and “Under the Tuscan Sun.” Her mature, natural beauty and nuanced performances have earned her respect from both fans and critics. Lane’s career longevity speaks to her talent and enduring appeal.

Watch Diane Lane share a funny and unforgettable story about a surprising train ride moment on Late Night with Conan O’Brien—a charming clip full of laughs and personality!

Conclusion

These twenty women represent more than just stunning appearances—they symbolize resilience, creativity, influence, and timeless elegance. Each brought something unique to their generation, leaving a lasting impact not only on the entertainment industry but on society as a whole. Whether it’s through activism, entrepreneurship, humanitarian work, or unforgettable performances, their legacies continue to shape what it means to be iconic. In an ever-changing world, these women remind us that true beauty transcends time.