Gunila was one of the most striking faces of the 1950s and ’60s, a model who epitomized the “Nordic look” that fascinated the international fashion world. With her razor-sharp cheekbones, wide-set eyes, and an almost architectural sense of poise, she was a favorite muse for legendary photographers like Philippe Pottier, Irving Penn and Richard Avedon.
Gunila possessed a rare ability to transition from the stiff, aristocratic elegance of early ’50s couture to the youthful, avant-garde energy of the early ’60s. Often draped in the masterpieces of Cristóbal Balenciaga or Christian Dior, she didn’t just wear clothes, she gave them structure and movement.
Whether captured in a stark studio setting or on the chic streets of Paris, Gunila’s presence on the pages of Vogue represented a shift toward a more sophisticated, independent female ideal.
Gunila in black velvet coat lined with quilted satin worn over a black wool dress by Jean Patou, worn with a black fox fur hat, photo by Georges Saad, 1956
Gunila in black velvet dress over white tulle bubble skirt, white tulle also gathered at the décolletage, by Christian Dior, photo by Philippe Pottier, 1957
Gunila in charming dress of black and white mesh with white lace, bodice is black velvet, by Guy Laroche, photo Philippe Pottier, 1957
Gunila in elegant wool suit by Jacques Griffe, photo by Nicole Bukzin, 1957
A single large white rose adorns the crown of this dark green straw cloche by Jean Barthet worn by Gunila, jewelry by Boucheron, photo by Philippe Pottier, 1958
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