A sultry, doe-eyed brunette with high cheekbones, she was one of the top haute couture models of the 1960s and early 70s. Her face graced the covers of Vogue, Petra, Jardin des Modes and Cosmopolitan. She modeled for famous fashion brands like Nina Ricci and Jean Patou and also advertised exclusive accessories.

German-born Astrid Heeren began her career as a draftsperson for the BBC. She subsequently attended the State Academy of Fine Arts in Karlsruhe but did not complete her studies. Moving to Paris, she began her modeling career with Vogue and was in due course spotted by the film maker Roger Vadim who cast her in his wartime drama Kardeş kanı (1963). Astrid made just three more films. Her best known role was as Steve McQueen 's girlfriend Gwen in Kibar Soyguncu (1968). After 1972, she continued to be involved with the fashion industry, as well as interior design, and has latterly resided in Manhattan, New York.