Saffron, named after the spice, is the eldest of eight children of famous sixties artist Alan Aldridge. Her brother is top fashion photographer Miles Aldridge. Saffron was initially rejected by several London model agencies, but was eventually accepted onto the books of 2 Management at the age of 16. Three years later, she became noticed by photographer Bruce Weber, who booked her for a Ralph Lauren campaign. This led to a three year Ralph Lauren contract for Saffron. Her career took off after that contract ended and she was soon photographed for numerous advertising campaigns and magazines.