Gigi Hadid

Early Life and Background

Born Jelena Noura Hadid on April 23, 1995, in Los Angeles, California, Gigi Hadid is an American supermodel of Dutch and Palestinian descent. Her father, Mohamed Hadid, is a Palestinian-American real estate developer, and her mother, Yolanda Hadid (née van den Herik), is a Dutch-born former model and television personality. Gigi has two younger siblings, Bella and Anwar, both of whom are also models, and two older paternal half-sisters, Marielle and Alana. 

Raised in Santa Barbara, California, Gigi developed a passion for horseback riding and was an accomplished equestrian during her youth. She attended Malibu High School, where she was the captain of the varsity volleyball team. After graduating in 2013, she moved to New York City to study criminal psychology at The New School but suspended her studies to focus on her burgeoning modeling career.

Modeling Career

Gigi's modeling career began at the tender age of two when she was discovered by Paul Marciano of Guess and modeled for Baby Guess. She took a hiatus to focus on her education but returned to modeling in 2011, eventually becoming the face of a Guess campaign in 2012. ​

In 2013, Gigi signed with IMG Models and made her New York Fashion Week debut in February 2014, walking for Desigual. Her career quickly ascended as she appeared in campaigns for high-profile brands such as Tom Ford, Chanel, Versace, and Fendi. In 2016, she was named International Model of the Year by the British Fashion Council. ​

Gigi has graced the covers of numerous international Vogue editions and has been featured in campaigns for brands like Maybelline, Tommy Hilfiger, and BMW. She has also walked the runway for Victoria's Secret and participated in the Pirelli Calendar. ​

Business Ventures and Design Collaborations

Beyond modeling, Gigi has ventured into design and entrepreneurship. In 2016, she collaborated with Tommy Hilfiger to launch the "Gigi by Tommy Hilfiger" collection, which debuted at New York Fashion Week. In September 2022, she introduced her own cashmere knitwear brand, Guest In Residence, showcasing her versatility in the fashion industry. ​

Personal Life and Advocacy

Gigi's personal life has been the subject of media attention. She has been in relationships with singer Cody Simpson and former One Direction member Zayn Malik. Gigi and Zayn welcomed their daughter, Khai, in September 2020. The couple separated in October 2021. ​

An advocate for various causes, Gigi has used her platform to support humanitarian efforts. In 2022, she pledged to donate her earnings from the Fall fashion shows to aid those affected by the war in Ukraine and to support Palestinian relief efforts. ​