It Girls through the ages, from Bianca Jagger to Kate Moss

While the exact definition of the term is slippery, an “it girl” often refers to a magnetic girl who is admired in the upper echelons of society. The term was coined in the UK around the turn of the 20th century and was used by Rudyard Kipling in a 1904 short story: "Tisn't beauty, so to speak, nor good talk necessarily. It's just It. Some women'll stay in a man's memory if they once walk down a street,” wrote the now-controversial writer.

Often considered the original 'it girl,' Evelyn Nesbit was an American model, chorus girl, and actress in the early 1900s. She was also propelled to fame in the “trial of the century,” when she testified about how architect Stanford White drugged and took advantage of her. White was later killed by her husband Harry Thaw.

Image: 'Miss N' Photoportrait of Evelyn Nesbit, 1903, Gertrude Käsebier / Wikimedia

This British silent film actress was a fixture of London’s Bohemian 1920s youth movement called “Bright Young Things.” Following the loss of a child in utero, she developed a morphine habit that she could never kick. This made her one of the most talked-about celebrities in tabloids.

Image: A 'Freak Party' in Chelsea, Brenda Dean Paul is the woman second from the right.

This silent, and later talkie film, star brought the term 'it' to the popular lexicon in her 1927 film 'It.' In the movie, she played a woman who had a magnetic mixture of innocence and danger. The actress herself was the quintessential flapper and actress who symbolized the spirit of the Jazz Age.

A trailblazer of the Jazz Age, Josephine Baker captivated audiences with her sultry dance and vocal talents. As an African-American expatriate in Paris, she broke racial barriers, becoming a symbol of elegance and activism in the Roaring Twenties.

The original blonde bombshell, Harlow was a leading se* symbol of the early 1930s. She was a defining figure of the pre-Code era of American cinema and even starred in the film 'Bombshell,' which was said to be based on Harlow’s life or that of Clara Bow. She died at 26 of kidney failure.

The 'It Girl' of the WWII era, Turner was given the se*ist moniker 'sweater girl' because of how good her figure looked in a sweater. But she was much more than that, and throughout her 50-year career, was famous for her modeling, acting, and… like pretty much all 'it girls,' her often tumultuous personal life.

As the only heiress of the Vanderbilt fortune, she was in the public eye throughout her life. But from the 1940s to 1960s, she was a fixture of New York's party circuit, as well as in the papers that covered it.

Perhaps the 'it girl' of the ages, Marilyn Monroe's beauty and talent were magnetic. She was all over the papers of her day for her many films as well as many marriages. Unfortunately, her tragic side and early death set her 'it girl' status in stone.

Perhaps the reigning 'It girl' of the 1960s, this actress and fashion model hung around Andy Warhol and The Factory. But when that phase ended, her acting career didn’t really take off. At age 28, she died of a barbiturate and alcohol overdose. Being an 'It girl' doesn't mean being happy and healthy, that's for sure.

One of the few 'It girls' who wasn't a model, Bianca Jagger first became the girl of the moment after meeting the Rolling Stones singer Mick Jagger in the early 1970s, quickly getting pregnant and marrying him. She was then known for her jet-set lifestyle, charitable works, and being a party-goer. Anyone say Studio 54?

Marisa Berenson epitomized '70s glamour. A top model turned actress, she dazzled in 'Barry Lyndon' and 'Cabaret.' Her friendships with icons like Andy Warhol, the center of much of New York night life, showcased her undeniable 'It girl' aura in the world of fashion and film.

Model, actress, singer, and fashion ICON, Grace Jones was a reigning 'It girl' from the 1970s to 1990s. Mixing art with the avante-guard and, of course, being a fixture on the party circuit, she was one of the most photographed women in high society.

Goldie Hawn appeared in films throughout the 1970s, but her role in 'Private Benjamin' got her an Oscar nod and made her a bonafide superstar. Her back-to-back marriages and relationships also had many paying very close attention.

This Somali-born supermodel was a total fashion icon and 'It girl' in the 1970s and 1980s. She dated Warren Beatty, married basketball player Spencer Haywood and eventually ended up with the 'It boy' of those days, David Bowie.

Another supermodel who burst onto the scene around this time, Kate Moss rose to fame in the 1990s as part of the 'heroin chic' fashion trend. Since then, she has been subject to intense media scrutiny while refusing to stay home and wait it out.

The poster girl for '90s grunge and indie films, Ryder's dark, brooding look and roles in films like 'Reality Bites' captured the era's ethos. Plus, her personal life was anything but calm.

One of the queens of Indie movies has also been a genuine 'it girl' since the 1990s. She first gained that status after appearing in a music video for the band Sonic Youth and solidified it with her choice of friends, fashion and 'je ne sais quoi' qualities.

Tinsley Mortimer, the Southern belle turned NYC socialite, dominated 2000s society pages with her impeccable style. Later, her 'Real Housewives of New York' stint showcased the complexities behind her 'It girl' status.

This British model and television presenter was definitely an 'It girl' in the early 2000s and even penned a book called 'It' in 2013. Her fashion and hairstyles were closely scrutinized and she became a muse for many designers.

Another 'It girl' of the early aughts, Mischa Barton was even named as much in 2003 by Entertainment Tonight. She became incredibly famous in the teen drama 'The O.C.' and appeared in the iconic music videos 'Goodbye My Lover' by James Blunt and 'Addicted' by Enrique Iglesias.

While her music certainly put her on the map, it was Rihanna's fearless fashion choices, beauty empire, and philanthropic efforts that made her a modern 'It girl.' From red carpet looks to street style, everything she touched became a trend.

A member of the Kardashian-Jenner dynasty, Kendall made a name for herself as a top model, walking for the likes of Chanel, Balmain, and Victoria's Secret. With her towering height, striking beauty, and fashion-forward choices, she's been a darling of both high-fashion circles and popular culture.

Breaking onto the scene in the mid-2010s, Gigi Hadid quickly became a fashion and pop culture phenomenon. Her unique blend of Californian charm and high-fashion appeal, along with high-profile relationships and an enviable girl squad, has made her a definitive 'It girl' of her time.

The voice of Gen Z, Billie Eilish's meteoric rise to fame has been nothing short of remarkable. With her distinctive style, haunting vocals, and authentic personality, she's captured the attention and hearts of millions. Her fashion-forward, often androgynous choices have turned heads and set trends.

Actress, singer, and fashion icon, Zendaya's transition from Disney star to leading lady has been seamless. Her roles in projects like 'Euphoria' and 'Dune,' along with her stunning red-carpet looks and activism, have solidified her status as one of the reigning 'It girls' of right now.

Follow Showbizz Daily to stay informed and enjoy more content!