Born 1926 as Gyoyegyver Balasz in a wealthy Transylvanian family, fashion model and painter Gyongyi Armstrong was active in the mid-20th century, particularly in the late 1940s and 1950s. She was known for her elegant and poised presence in the world of high fashion, appearing in major magazines like Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar.
Armstrong modeled for top couturiers of the time, including designs by Jacques Fath and Adele Simpson. She was photographed by legendary fashion photographers such as Horst P. Horst, John Rawlings, and Clifford Coffin. One of her notable photos, taken by her husband Jerry Plucer-Sarna, famously depicts her smoking while modeling.
Armstrong passed away in 2013, leaving behind a legacy as a notable model and a creative individual from a pivotal era in fashion history. Take a look at these fabulous photos to see portraits of Gyongyi Armstrong as a fashion model From the 1950s.
Gyongyi Armstrong in spring ball-gown of souffle de soie and ostrich feathers by Irene, kidskin sandals by Mademoiselle, photo by Cecil Beaton in front of a Jackson Pollock painting, Vogue, March 1, 1951
Gyongyi Armstrong in short ball gown, butterfly-light in a silk paper taffeta, the pink bow a lift of color to balance the side-flight of the skirt, made to order at Henri Bendel, photo by Cecil Beaton, Vogue, March 1, 1951
Gyongyi Armstrong in a suede finish Botany wool brown jacket and a Miron worsted checked flannel dress, photo by Horst P. Horst, Vogue, February 15, 1951
Gyongyi Armstrong in Botany wool brown jacket and a Miron worsted checked flannel dress with a linen collar and cuffs, photo by Horst P. Horst, Vogue, February 15, 1951
Gyongyi Armstrong in nearly sheer cotton dress with tucks woven into it, photo by Louise Dahl-Wolfe, Harper’s Bazaar, June 1951
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