They say that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. But throughout the centuries, certain women have been considered universally beautiful – there are no ifs, ands, or buts about it. From modern celebs to princesses and ancient queens we read about in history books, these women have been honored for their otherworldly beauty.
12. Brigitte Bardot
Born in Paris and an icon of the 50s and 60s, this gap-toothed actress and animal rights activist is often referred to as a “sex kitten” for her coy looks. Beyond appearing in many 1950s French films, they starred in Hollywood movies such as “And God Created Woman” and “The Fox.”
11. Marylin Monroe
Marylin was a triple threat—she could sing, act, and model. Before her tragic death in 1962, this influential sex symbol was also praised for moving the women’s rights and gender equality movement forward. In her movies, she often played women who defied gender roles, like the assertive and confident role in “Gentleman Prefer Blondes,” which fought submissive stereotypes.
10. Grace Kelly
This beauty was the epitome of classic, old Hollywood glamour. She soon became the Princess of Monaco and, despite her classy persona, experienced insecurity and mental health issues like anxiety and depression. Despite her ambition and looks, her story reminds us that we’re all human and nobody is perfect, even with a supposedly flawless appearance.
9. Audrey Hepburn
This delicate-featured starlet starred in world-renowned movies like “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” “My Fair Lady,” and “Roman Holiday.” Her versatility allowed her to play many roles, and she was known for her understated, chic elegance. She was also a goodwill ambassador for UNICEF and worked hard to raise awareness of the struggles of children in developing countries.
8. Sophia Loren
Nobody did eyebrows better than the breathtaking Italian actress Sophia Loren, who was also a staple of classic Hollywood. Even in her 80s, she’s a stunner, and it’s not just due to her confident attitude and style but how she carries herself and understands her worth. She remains optimistic, sees things with humor, and stays positive, making her timeless beauty even more immense.
7. Elizabeth Taylor
One of the most awe-inspiring beauties (and the highest-paid movie star in the 1960s), Taylor rode the fine line between being a star of classic Hollywood and one of the first modern celebs. She has married a whopping eight times but is known for so much more, acting as an advocate for many causes and humanitarian work.
6. Ann-Margret
This Swedish-American star was known for her multiple talents, which included dancing, singing, acting, and philanthropy. Her vibrant and charming personality always kept her connected to her audience. Despite her high-profile work in film and TV, she’s also well known for her career in music with songs like “What Am I Supposed To Do” and “I Just Don’t Understand.”
5. Hedy Lamarr
This Austrian-American looker is often regarded as one of the most beautiful actresses of her era, and that reputation lasted through her film career, which lasted over 30 years. She was also incredibly smart and creative – Lamarr invented a spread-spectrum radio signal that led to the development of wireless communications and changed the world. In many ways, she was ahead of her time.
4. Fawzia Chirine
This gorgeous Egyptian princess might not have the star power of some individuals on this list, but she was very well-known in Egypt due to her regal status and stunning looks. Although she started as a princess, she became the Queen of Iran when she married Mohammad Reza. Fawzia’s father was Fuad 1, the seventh son of Ismail the Magnificent.
3. Nefertiti
Although only paintings and sculptures of her exist, Nefertiti is often considered the most beautiful woman in the world. Ruling alongside her husband Akhenaten, Nefertiti was also known for her strength and smarts. Her bravery and compassion made her even more beautiful, which to many seemed impossible as she had unblemished skin, blue eyes, and glowing, long hair.
2. Cleopatra
The Queen of Egypt wasn’t just dreamy to look at – she was a cunning ruler who formed clever allyships. One of her allies, Julius Cesar, became a lover when the two embarked on a passionate affair and fell for each other. Sadly, her story ended in suicide when she lost a battle against Octavian and took her own life to avoid being captured.
1. Helen of Troy
Helen of Troy’s beauty was undeniable – it was said that her face launched a thousand ships. The wife of King Menelaus of Sparta was whisked away by Prince Paris of Troy, leading to the Trojan War. Men are known to fight over gorgeous women, but how many can claim that they began a war that will be written in world history books for years to come?