Pat Cleveland: Beauty, Aging & the Supermodel’s Timeless Philosophy

Pat Cleveland, the legendary supermodel who redefined runway presence with her signature twirls and dynamic energy, is opening up about her lifelong relationship with beauty and self-acceptance. In a new interview with Essence, Cleveland reflects on her journey from a young woman experimenting with homemade beauty solutions to a seasoned icon embracing the wisdom and grace of aging. The conversation, part of Essence’s “Authentically Aging” series, offers a glimpse into the evolution of her philosophy and the lessons she’s learned along the way.

Early Days and DIY Beauty

Cleveland’s earliest memories of beauty are steeped in resourcefulness and creativity. Growing up, she and her mother weren’t simply consumers of beauty products; they were creators. “My mother was particularly good at making clothes and so was I,” Cleveland recalls. “Window shopping and dressing up were the spices of life for us. Of course, we didn’t buy everything. We went home and made it.” This DIY spirit extended to makeup, where a lack of shade inclusivity forced innovation. “We didn’t have makeup that matched the color of our skin back in the day. We had to mix brown eyeshadow with the foundation,” she explains. Even eyelashes weren’t safe from her mother’s ingenuity – crafted from individual hairs coated in nail polish. Essence details these early experiences, highlighting the resilience and creativity born from necessity.

This early emphasis on self-creation wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was about empowerment. Cleveland remembers a time when women were expected to adhere to strict beauty standards to attract attention. “The first thing that happened to me is I was like, ‘No, no, no makeup for me.’ But my mother said, ‘If you don’t put some makeup on, you’re going to be an old maid.’ Now that was the attitude in the ’50s.” Despite these societal pressures, Cleveland ultimately forged her own path, embracing transformation and self-expression.

From 42nd Street to Vogue

Cleveland’s modeling career began serendipitously. While walking down 42nd Street in New York City, she was spotted by a Vogue editor who was captivated by her unique style. This encounter launched her into a world of fashion and photography, leading to campaigns for brands like Duke hair products, a line from Johnson Publishing. Her early work coincided with a shift in beauty standards, as she recalls the prevalence of hot combs and the laborious process of achieving sleek, straightened hair. This period, she notes, was about maintaining a certain look, a look that would eventually give way to the embrace of natural hair textures.

Cleveland’s career blossomed in the 1970s, and she quickly became known for her captivating runway presence. She wasn’t just a model; she was a performer, injecting movement and personality into every walk. Her signature twirls became her trademark, setting her apart from her peers. She became a muse for Andy Warhol and graced the cover of Essence magazine in 1982, solidifying her status as a fashion icon. The Garland Journal notes that 2026 marks the 19th annual ESSENCE’s Black Women in Hollywood ceremony, a testament to the enduring legacy of women like Cleveland who have broken barriers in the industry.

Embracing Authenticity and Aging

Now in her 70s, Cleveland’s beauty philosophy has evolved. She emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and finding joy in the present moment. “I’m growing out my hair,” she shares, signaling a willingness to embrace her natural texture and let go of rigid beauty ideals. Her recent battle with colon cancer has further shaped her perspective, reminding her of the fragility of life and the importance of gratitude. “I’ve been through two pandemics – AIDS and Covid. I’ve seen racism and terrible things,” she reflects. “And in my 70s, I can look back and say, ‘Well, float like a lotus and let the dead leaves fall off and just keep blooming into my 70s.’”

Cleveland’s advice to her younger self is simple yet profound: “Take care of your hair and your skin and have good thoughts about yourself. And to not rush anything.” She stresses the importance of finding one thing you love about yourself, even when times are tough, and using that as a foundation for self-confidence. This message resonates deeply, particularly in an industry often obsessed with perfection and youth.

The Power of Purpose and Self-Care

For Cleveland, self-care isn’t about elaborate routines or expensive treatments; it’s about finding purpose and creating space for creativity. “I have this room in my house where I have it all set up. Nobody’s coming in here when I’m here. I can do what I want. Just create,” she explains. She as well prioritizes rest, embracing the power of a quick nap to recharge and refocus. This holistic approach to wellness reflects a deep understanding of the mind-body connection and the importance of nurturing both inner and outer beauty.

Cleveland’s story is a powerful reminder that aging is not something to be feared, but rather embraced as an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. Her journey, as chronicled by Essence, is an inspiration to women of all ages, encouraging them to celebrate their individuality and live authentically.

What comes next: Cleveland continues to work as a model and creative consultant, sharing her wisdom and inspiring a new generation of artists and entrepreneurs. She remains a vibrant force in the fashion world, proving that age is truly just a number.