Nagel was represented by numerous modeling agencies from 1980–1989, including Parker-Sed, Ford Models and Click Model Management. She appeared on magazine covers in Germany and Italy and in fashion magazines including Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, Elle, Madamoiselle and Brides and worked with Photographers including Bruce Weber, Patrick Demarchelier and Joyce Tennyson. Nagel appeared in campaigns for fashion brands including Calvin Klein [lensed by Bruce Weber], Pringle of Scotland and Triumph International as well as in advertisements for Retailers including Macy's, Bloomingdales and Karstadt.