Daphne Selfe, widely celebrated as the world’s oldest professional model, has passed away at the age of 97.

Her death was confirmed on March 21, 2026, through a message shared on her official Instagram account. According to her family, she died peacefully in a residential care home, closing a life that remained remarkably active and inspiring until its final chapter.

In a tribute filled with warmth and admiration, her loved ones reflected on her passing with poetic grace.

“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 highlighted how fitting her final public appearance had been.

“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, signed by her children Mark, Claire, and Rose, along with her grandchildren, ended with a sentiment that captured her lasting legacy:

“She will continue to inspire, always and forever.”

Born in London in 1928 and raised in Berkshire, Selfe’s path into modeling began at 21, when she was discovered while working in a department store. Her early career showed promise, but after marrying in 1954, she chose to step away from the spotlight to focus on raising her family. Even then, she occasionally appeared in commercials and small film roles, maintaining a quiet connection to the industry.

It wasn’t until decades later, following the death of her husband in 1997, that her story took an unexpected and remarkable turn. Returning to modeling in her 70s, she entered a phase of success that would ultimately define her legacy. She appeared at major fashion events, including London Fashion Week, and signed with a prominent agency, becoming a distinctive presence celebrated for her elegance and authenticity.

Reflecting on that period, she once noted:

“I had more modeling success since I was 70 than I ever did when I was 20.”

Her decision to embrace her natural appearance became a defining part of her identity.

“I became successful when I embraced my age and went gray… It made me more striking.”

Beyond her career, Selfe shared a grounded and joyful approach to life. In a 2023 interview, she spoke about simple pleasures and the importance of connection.

“I like a glass of champagne. Only occasionally, if it’s somebody’s birthday. Or my birthday.”

She also emphasized the value of staying socially engaged:

“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.”

Her achievements were formally recognized in several ways. She was listed by Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest professional model and received the British Empire Medal for her contributions. In 2015, she founded the Daphne Selfe Academy, offering guidance and opportunity to aspiring models of all ages, reinforcing her belief that the industry could be more inclusive.

Even into her 90s, she remained active, curious, and committed to her work. During one encounter, she told Prince William she had no intention of retiring—a statement he reportedly described as “amazing.”

Daphne Selfe’s life stood as a quiet but powerful statement: that reinvention has no age limit, and that confidence, when rooted in authenticity, only grows stronger with time.