Candice Swanepoel: From South African Farm Girl To Global Supermodel Icon
Candice Swanepoel, born on 20 October 1988 in Mooi River, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, has become one of the most recognizable faces in the fashion industry. This South African model's journey from a small farming community to the glittering runways of Victoria's Secret is nothing short of extraordinary.
Early Life and Discovery
Candice grew up on a dairy farm in rural South Africa, far removed from the glamorous world she would later inhabit. Her natural beauty and tall, slender frame caught the attention of a local modeling scout when she was just 15 years old. This serendipitous encounter would change the trajectory of her life forever.
At the tender age of 15, Candice began her modeling career, initially working in local South African campaigns. Her unique combination of classic beauty and a fresh, youthful look quickly set her apart from her peers. By the time she was 17, she had already graced the covers of international magazines and walked in shows for top designers.
Rise to Fame with Victoria's Secret
Candice's big break came in 2010 when she was named a Victoria's Secret Angel. This coveted title catapulted her to global stardom and solidified her place in the fashion industry. As a Victoria's Secret Angel, Candice became the face of the brand's iconic lingerie campaigns and walked in their annual fashion show, which is watched by millions around the world.
Her work with Victoria's Secret has been nothing short of spectacular. Candice has been a consistent presence on the Victoria's Secret runway, known for her confident walk and ability to bring lingerie to life. In 2013, she had the honor of wearing the $10 million Fantasy Bra, one of the most prestigious assignments in the modeling world.
Social Media Presence and Brand Expansion
In today's digital age, Candice has leveraged social media to connect with her fans and expand her brand. Her TikTok account, where she has amassed 607.7k followers, offers a glimpse into her life as a mother, model, and entrepreneur. The content ranges from behind-the-scenes glimpses of photoshoots to more personal moments with her family, showcasing her versatility and relatability.
Candice's social media presence extends beyond just modeling content. She shares her passion for sustainability, motherhood, and her swimwear line, Tropic of C, which she founded in 2018. This direct connection with her audience has helped her build a loyal following and establish herself as more than just a model – she's a lifestyle influencer and businesswoman.
Career Milestones and Achievements
Throughout her career, Candice has achieved numerous milestones that have cemented her status as a top model:
- 2010: Named a Victoria's Secret Angel
- 2013: Wore the $10 million Fantasy Bra at the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show
- 2014: Ranked No. 1 on the Forbes list of highest-paid models
- 2018: Launched her own swimwear line, Tropic of C
- 2021: Returned to the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show after a two-year hiatus
Candice's return to the Victoria's Secret runway in 2021 was highly anticipated. She flaunted her sculpted physique and confident walk, proving that she remains one of the industry's top models despite becoming a mother. Her ability to balance motherhood with her career has inspired many women around the world.
Beyond Modeling: Entrepreneurship and Advocacy
While Candice is best known for her work as a model, she has expanded her influence into other areas:
Tropic of C: Her sustainable swimwear line, launched in 2018, focuses on creating timeless pieces with a commitment to environmental responsibility.
Motherhood: Candice is a proud mother of two sons, and she often speaks about the challenges and joys of balancing her career with raising a family.
Environmental Advocacy: She uses her platform to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote sustainable practices in the fashion industry.
The Victoria's Secret Evolution
Candice's career has paralleled the evolution of Victoria's Secret as a brand. In recent years, the company has undergone significant changes, including a rebranding effort and a shift towards more inclusive and diverse representation.
The Victoria's Secret Signature 2026 collection, unveiled with bold logos and memory foam bras, marks a new era for the brand. Candice, alongside veteran models like Adriana Lima, continues to be a key figure in this transformation. The collection represents a blend of Victoria's Secret's heritage with a modern, empowered approach to lingerie.
Fascinating Facts About Candice Swanepoel
Candice is fluent in Afrikaans, her native language, as well as English.
She has walked in over 20 Victoria's Secret Fashion Shows since becoming an Angel.
Candice is known for her philanthropic work, supporting various charities in South Africa.
She has been featured on the cover of Vogue multiple times across different international editions.
Candice is 5'9" tall, which is considered tall even in the modeling industry.
She has worked with numerous high-end fashion brands, including Versace, Tommy Hilfiger, and Michael Kors.
Candice is married to Brazilian model Hermann Nicoli, whom she met when she was 17.
She has two sons: Anacã and Ariel.
Candice is known for her love of yoga and maintains her physique through a combination of yoga, Pilates, and strength training.
She has been featured in music videos for artists like Justin Bieber and Taylor Swift.
The Meaning Behind the Name
Interestingly, "Candice" is a given name and a variant spelling of the name Candace. The name has Greek origins and means "glowing" or "bright," which seems fitting for a model known for her radiant beauty and positive energy.
Notable people with the name Candice include:
- Candice Bergen, American actress
- Candice Accola, American actress and singer
- Candice Patton, American actress known for her role in "The Flash"
- Candice Swanepoel, South African supermodel
Looking to the Future
As Candice continues to evolve in her career, she remains a prominent figure in the fashion industry. Her ability to adapt to changing trends while maintaining her unique appeal has kept her relevant for over a decade.
The future looks bright for Candice Swanepoel. With her swimwear line gaining traction, her continued presence in major fashion campaigns, and her growing influence as a mother and environmental advocate, she is poised to remain a significant figure in both the fashion world and popular culture.
Conclusion
From her humble beginnings on a South African farm to becoming one of the most recognizable faces in fashion, Candice Swanepoel's journey is a testament to talent, hard work, and adaptability. Her long-standing relationship with Victoria's Secret, her successful transition into entrepreneurship, and her ability to connect with fans through social media have all contributed to her enduring success.
As the fashion industry continues to evolve, Candice Swanepoel stands as a model of how to navigate change while staying true to oneself. Her story inspires aspiring models and entrepreneurs alike, proving that with determination and authenticity, it's possible to build a lasting career in the competitive world of fashion.
