Adriana Lima is one of the most recognizable and successful supermodels in the world. Born on June 12, 1981 in Salvador, Brazil, Adriana began her modeling career at the young age of 15 after winning a modeling competition in her native country. Since then, she has graced runways, magazine covers and ad campaigns and has become an iconic figure in the fashion industry.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Adriana was born in northeastern Brazil to Nelson Torres and Maria da Graca Lima. She has Native Brazilian, Swiss, African, Japanese and West Indian ancestry. Growing up, Adriana knew she wanted to be a model and entered the "Ford Supermodel of Brazil" modeling contest at age 15. Competing against over 3,000 other hopefuls, Adriana finished first place, which opened doors for her. She moved to New York City shortly after and signed with Elite Model Management.
Her career took off quickly. By 1999, at age 18, she had already walked in her first Victoria‘s Secret fashion show, posing alongside modeling veterans like Heidi Klum and Tyra Banks. Lima‘s exotic beauty and natural grace on the catwalk captured attention. She appeared in French and Italian Vogue editorials and on the covers of Marie Claire and Elle in the early 2000s as her fame grew. She would go on to become a Victoria‘s Secret Angel from 2000 to 2018, cementing her status as one of the world‘s top lingerie models.
Victoria‘s Secret Superstardom
Adriana Lima attained supermodel status during her illustrious time as a Victoria‘s Secret Angel. She gained a reputation for her captivating presence on the runway and commanding the show with her signature long, fluid stride. Adriana set a record, opening the Victoria‘s Secret show five times in a row from 2003 to 2007, routinely stealing the spotlight on fashion‘s biggest night.
Throughout her time with Victoria‘s Secret, Adriana participated in dozens of runway extravaganzas and print and television campaigns. She represented major sub-brands like Victoria’s Secret PINK, aimed at a younger audience. In 2008, Lima was chosen to wear the coveted Fantasy Bra, encrusted with over 3,500 precious stones and valued at $2 million. Her iconic Victoria‘s Secret looks combined sexy and sophisticated, showing off her toned physique.
Modeling Work and Icon Status
Beyond Victoria‘s Secret, Adriana Lima has modeled for many top fashion brands and magazines. She has appeared in campaigns for luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Hilfiger Denim, Balmain and Prada. Lima has also represented mass market brands like Maybelline, Rolex, Desigual and Calzedonia. Adriana has graced the covers and pages of Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Elle, GQ, Esquire and other major international publications.
On the runway, Adriana has walked for some of the biggest names in the industry like Marc Jacobs, Blumarine, Givenchy, Stella McCartney and many others. She has also ventured into acting, with cameos and small roles in Ugly Betty, How I Met Your Mother and episodes of Lies in Plain Sight. In 2016, she was presented with the Legend Award for Fashion at the MTV Europe Music Awards in recognition of her impact as a top model and pop culture influence.
Personal Life
Adriana Lima was married to Serbian NBA player Marko Jarić from 2009 to 2016. The couple have two daughters together. Lima speaks four languages – Portuguese, English, Italian and Spanish. Though she travels the world for modeling, she considers New York City her home base. She has also lived in Miami.
Lima is a devout Roman Catholic who attends mass weekly. She follows a dedicated fitness routine to stay in shape but avoids fad diets. Adriana enjoys boxing, tennis, volleyball and other sports in her spare time. She is also actively involved in charitable organizations like the Red Cross and St. Jude‘s Children‘s Research Hospital. Despite her glamorous job, she tries to lead a low-key life focused on family and faith when she is not working.
Why We Love Adriana Lima
Ageless Beauty
Even after over 20 years in the fashion industry, Adriana Lima looks as stunning as ever. Her timeless beauty, glamorous style and fit physique continue turning heads.
Billion Dollar Smile
Adriana‘s megawatt smile lights up any photograph or runway. There‘s a reason she‘s been a top model for over 20 years!
Caring Spirit
Adriana‘s dedication to philanthropy and helping children reveals her kind-hearted spirit.
5 Interesting Facts About Adriana Lima
- She can speak 4 languages – Portuguese, English, Italian and Spanish.
- Adriana won the "Ford Supermodel of Brazil" contest at age 15.
- She holds the record for most consecutive Victoria‘s Secret fashion show opening walk – 5 years in a row.
- Adriana has an estimated net worth of $95 million.
- She practices boxing, tennis and volleyball to stay fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Adriana Lima‘s birthday?
Adriana Lima was born on June 12, 1981. She is currently 42 years old.
What is Adriana Lima‘s net worth?
According to reports, Adriana Lima has an estimated net worth around $95 million. She has earned her wealth through her decades-long modeling career and high-paying contracts with brands like Victoria‘s Secret and Maybelline.
Where is Adriana Lima from?
Adriana Lima was born and raised in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. Although her modeling career has taken her all over the world, Brazil remains her homeland.
How tall is Adriana Lima?
Adriana Lima is 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) tall, which is quite tall for a female model. Her height is one of her model-worthy assets.