Linda Evangelista: being a supermodel is hard work

The 47-year-old original supermodel says she has to keep working on her appearance and keep fit non-stop in order to stay at the top of her game in the fashion industry.

Linda told i-D magazine: "When I started in the business, I was told I had three good years in me. On days where I do not work, I am working on my image. I have to hit the gym.

"I have beauty appointments. I have to work towards my next job and maintaining my image, just like an athlete."

The Canadian model who has graced over 600 magazine covers to this day, is determined to maintain her crown as one of the original supermodels, and thinks exuding confidence and grace in every situation is key to longevity as a model.

Linda mused: "Elegance is to casually exude confidence and character. The ability to maintain grace under fire, to be calm when the vortex has engulfed you and the ability to keep your sense of humour intact, that's what makes someone truly inspirational. "

The statuesque beauty is a huge fan of eating healthily and regular exercise, and has spoken out against the industry's impossible standards in the past.

She said: "I don't happen to think magazines should be full of thin people. What I do say is that we can all work a little harder with what we have.

"It is possible to achieve a better body shape and heart rate with nutrition and exercise.