'The energy of a goddess, the soul of a rock star'

As Kate Moss turns 50, she still reigns strong as London's ultimate icon. bet Joe Bromley asks her closest friends about what she means to them

CHEERS to half a century of Kate Moss — the little girl from Croydon who triumphed to become Lond o n’s biggest fashion export, ever. Since that day in 1988 when a 14-year-old was scouted at the JFK airport, her every move and nose-wrinkled giggle has captivated millions. Each outfit she wears has the power to launch years-long trends, be that Hunter wellies at Glasto, Pete Doherty in tow, to the naked dress that shocked the world in 1993 and has stuck on designers’ mood boards to this day. She has covered every magazine, closed every fashion show, and, importantly, reigned supreme over teenage bedroom pinboards for generations. She’s been the party princess and the moon-bathing, wild-swimming yogi — and plenty of her friends have stuck around for the ride. Here, her nearest and dearest pay tribute to an icon, Kate the Great:

Naomi Campbell (model)

Happy birthday, Kate Moss! My dearest friend, you are a timeless beauty, inside and out. We’ve been on an amazing journey and I’m so glad to be your ride-or-die partner. We’ve had more unforgettable moments than I care to remember, lol. Whether it was the photo shoot in Paris when we rocked those iconic outfits, our trip to South Africa to visit Nelson Mandela, or riding in the open-top bus as part of the late Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, we continue to reign, representing South London to the world! You are my chosen sister and I’m proud to welcome you to the fabulous fifties! My Wagon and BFF.

Sadie Frost (actress and producer)