Eileen Catterson is a celebrated Scottish fashion model, former Miss Scotland, and influential media personality who defined the face of Scottish glamour throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. Born in 1970 and raised in Erskine, Renfrewshire, Catterson first achieved national prominence by winning the Miss Scotland title in 1987 at the age of 17. This victory launched a prolific career that saw her become the primary face of iconic Scottish brands like “What Everyone Wants,” while successfully navigating the transition from the pageant circuit to high-fashion editorial work and commercial broadcasting. As of 2026, she remains a respected figure in the UK fashion industry, recognized for her enduring professionalism, her mentorship of the next generation of Scottish talent, and her long-term, steadfast partnership with Wet Wet Wet frontman Marti Pellow. Her legacy is not just one of beauty, but of resilience and authenticity in an industry known for its transience.
Early Life and Miss Scotland 1987
Eileen Catterson’s journey began in the close-knit community of Erskine, where her grounded upbringing would later help her navigate the pressures of international fame.
Growing up in Erskine
Eileen attended Park Mains High School in Renfrewshire. Even in her youth, her height and classic features caught the eye of local scouts, though she initially remained focused on her education before entering the world of competitive pageantry.
The Pageant Victory
In 1987, Eileen was crowned Miss Scotland, a title that at the time carried significant cultural weight and media attention. This win granted her entry into the Miss United Kingdom and Miss World circuits, where she showcased a “girl-next-door” charm blended with sophisticated poise, solidifying her status as Scotland’s premier model of the era.
The Face of “What Everyone Wants”
One of Catterson’s most significant commercial contributions was her role in revolutionizing the perception of discount fashion in Scotland during the 1990s.
Dressing on a Shoestring
Eileen became the iconic face of the Scottish retail giant “What Everyone Wants.” Her “Dressing on a Shoestring Budget” campaigns proved that high-fashion elegance could be accessible to everyday households. These advertisements became a nostalgic touchstone for a generation of Scots, featuring Eileen in tailored power suits and bold 90s palettes.
Collaboration with David Cruickshanks
Her work with renowned photographer David Cruickshanks during this period is now considered a definitive archive of 90s Scottish style. The images often featured Catterson in minimalist silhouettes—chocolate brown and vanilla suits—that emphasized her natural beauty over excessive artifice. These prints remain collectible in 2026, often appearing in galleries dedicated to British photographic history.
Modelling Career and Professionalism
Catterson’s career longevity is often attributed to her reputation for extreme professionalism and her ability to adapt to changing trends.
Navigating the Supermodel Era
While the late 80s and early 90s were dominated by “supermodels” who sought relentless publicity, Catterson chose a more understated path. She excelled in both high-fashion editorial shoots for lifestyle magazines and commercial campaigns for high-street brands. Peers frequently cited her punctuality and collaborative spirit as the reasons she remained a sought-after talent for over three decades.
Evolution into Mentorship
By the late 2000s, Eileen began transitioning from being in front of the lens to guiding those behind it. In 2026, she is actively involved in coaching aspiring models, focusing on mental resilience and business acumen. She emphasizes that in the modern “influencer” age, the classic values of reliability and character remain a model’s most valuable assets.
Personal Life and Marti Pellow
Eileen Catterson’s personal life, particularly her relationship with singer Marti Pellow, has been a subject of public admiration for its loyalty and lack of drama.
A Steadfast Partnership
Eileen has been in a long-term relationship with Marti Pellow, the lead singer of Wet Wet Wet, for over 20 years. Their partnership is often described as one of the most stable in the entertainment industry. Catterson has been widely credited for her supportive role during Pellow’s well-documented challenges and his subsequent successful solo career and transition into musical theatre.
Life Away from the Glare
Unlike many celebrities of her era, Catterson has intentionally maintained a private life. She and Pellow spend much of their time at their home in Windsor, away from the paparazzi. This choice has preserved her dignity and allowed her to focus on her consultancy work and personal fulfillment rather than fleeting headlines.
Practical Information and 2026 Activities
For those interested in Eileen Catterson’s current professional status and industry contributions in 2026.
Current Professional Roles
Fashion Consultant: Providing strategic advice to Scottish clothing brands on brand identity and heritage.
Talent Mentor: Running workshops for young models at major Scottish agencies.
Gallery Collaborator: Participating in retrospective exhibitions of 90s British
FAQs
Who is Eileen Catterson?
Eileen Catterson is a former Miss Scotland (1987) and a legendary Scottish fashion model who became a household name in the 1990s as the face of “What Everyone Wants.”
Is Eileen Catterson still with Marti Pellow?
Yes, as of 2026, Eileen Catterson and Marti Pellow remain long-term partners, having been together for over two decades.
What is Eileen Catterson doing now in 2026?
She is currently a fashion mentor and consultant, helping young models navigate the industry and working with brands on heritage-inspired fashion projects.
How tall is Eileen Catterson?
She stands at 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm), a height that made her an ideal candidate for both runway and editorial modeling.
Where did Eileen Catterson grow up?
She was born and raised in Erskine, Renfrewshire, and attended Park Mains High School.
Which brand made Eileen Catterson famous?
While she worked with many brands, she is most famous for her association with the Scottish retail chain “What Everyone Wants.”
Was Eileen Catterson a Miss World winner?
No, she represented Scotland in the Miss World pageant after winning Miss Scotland in 1987, but she did not take the global title.
Does Eileen Catterson have children?
Eileen has generally kept her family life private and has no public record of children.
What is Eileen Catterson’s net worth in 2026?
While not publicly disclosed, her net worth is estimated to be significant due to her 30-year modeling career and successful consultancy business.
Is Eileen Catterson on social media?
She maintains a very low profile on social media, preferring to conduct her mentorship and consultancy work through professional channels rather than public platforms.
Did Eileen Catterson ever act?
While primarily a model, she has made numerous television appearances and was featured in music videos and commercial broadcasts throughout her career.
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