Candice Swanepoel

When it comes to the world’s most famous models, Candice Swanepoel’s face instantly comes to mind. The South African beauty became famous as a Victoria’s Secret Angel, conquering runways and hearts worldwide with her natural grace, unique beauty, dedication, and professionalism. But who truly knows the story behind her rise to the top?

Her journey is more than just a swift ascent in the fashion world; it’s the story of a girl from a small town whose dreams turned into reality through sheer persistence and talent.

photo: Spotlight

The beginning of her career: from flea markets to global runways

Candice was born on October 20, 1988, in the small town of Mooi River, South Africa. Her parents were farmers, and she grew up surrounded by pastoral landscapes far removed from the glamorous world of fashion. Alongside her brother, Candice helped with chores from a young age, even assisting with delivering calves. Life went on quietly, but everything changed dramatically when she turned 15.

At a flea market in Durban, she was accidentally spotted by a modeling agent. “She reminded me of a flamingo,” agent Kevin Ellis later recalled, “so tall, blonde, with perfect legs.” On that day, Ellis saw something special in Candice, a spark that would soon capture the attention of the global fashion industry.

photo: Spotlight

Without wasting time, the agent met with Candice’s mother to discuss her future and introduced her to the director of a modeling agency. What happened next unfolded rapidly: photos of the 15-year-old Swanepoel were sent to the agency’s London office, and soon, she received an invitation to the British capital. In 2003, Candice made her first trip abroad, leaving school behind for a career in modeling.

This leap wasn’t easy, but her determination to conquer the fashion industry outweighed any doubts. In London, a new chapter in her life began—the South African girl transformed into a future global runway star.

photo: Spotlight

Candice quickly gained popularity, working for major fashion houses like Givenchy, Dolce & Gabbana, and Chanel. However, her real breakthrough came in 2007 when she began collaborating with Victoria’s Secret. Just three years later, in 2010, she became one of the brand’s Angels, a coveted title that thousands of models around the world dream of achieving.

“My mom always told me that the most important thing is to stay humble and hardworking because looks alone won’t bring success in life. That’s a lesson I have kept with me forever.”

Victoria’s Secret Angel: a symbol of style and glamour

Candice’s appearances on the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show runway always caused a sensation. Her memorable walks, adorned with angel wings symbolizing her meteoric rise to success, became some of the show’s most iconic moments. In 2013, she was given the honor of wearing the Fantasy Bra – a lavish bra adorned with precious gems valued at $10 million. This was a clear sign of her status in the fashion world.

photo: Spotlight

“Being a Victoria’s Secret Angel is a huge honor and a massive responsibility. You become not just the face of a brand but an inspiration to millions of women around the world.”

The secret to Candice’s success lies not just in her looks but in her work ethic, discipline, and ability to adapt to various styles. She could be soft and romantic in one show, then fierce and bold in the next, embodying the wide range of looks that Victoria’s Secret offers.

The woman behind the runway

Candice Swanepoel is not only a successful model but also a devoted mother. She has two sons—Anaca, born in 2016, and Ariel, born in 2018. Motherhood has become an important part of her life, and Candice consistently strives to maintain a balance between her career and family. She often says that her children push her to achieve new goals and serve as both motivation and inspiration.

photo: Spotlight

“Motherhood has changed me for the better. It makes me stronger, gives me purpose, and reveals new facets of my personality,” Candice admits in interviews. Her dedication to both her children and her work paints the picture of a woman who can do it all, both on the runway and at home.

Beyond being a supermodel and a loving mother, Candice is also a successful entrepreneur. In 2018, she launched her swimwear line, Tropic of C, reflecting her love for nature and commitment to sustainable fashion. Her brand quickly gained popularity due to its elegant and eco-friendly collections.

“It’s important for me not just to create beautiful things but to care for the environment. We live in an era where fashion needs to become more conscious and eco-friendly.”

Candice is also actively involved in charitable work, supporting initiatives aimed at helping children and women, especially in her native South Africa. Her heart remains connected to home, even as her career and success have transcended the continent.

“Charity is something that gives me a sense of true fulfillment. Helping others is the most important thing I can do with my platform.”

Influence and legacy

Candice Swanepoel is not just a model—she’s an icon whose influence extends far beyond the world of fashion. Her looks continue to inspire designers and photographers, while her style serves as a source of inspiration for millions of women around the world. Candice has proven that a model can be more than just a face on a cover, she can become a power that changes the world.

photo: Spotlight

“My goal is to show the world that true beauty comes from within, that it’s not just about how you look, but how you live, how you treat others, and how you make the world a better place.”

Today, even though she spends less time on the runway, her legacy remains undeniable. Candice Swanepoel is an example of how to combine success, style, and compassion for others while staying true to oneself and one’s roots.