Adriana Lima

Adriana Lima, born on 12 June 1981 in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil, is a name synonymous with grace, beauty, and an illustrious career in the world of modelling. From her early years in the vibrant city of Salvador to becoming the longest-running Victoria's Secret Angel, Lima's journey is nothing short of extraordinary.

Early Life and Ambitions

Adriana Lima's story begins in the heart of Brazil, where she was born to Nelson Torres, a carpenter, and Maria das Graças Lima, a social worker. Raised in the Castelo Branco neighborhood of Salvador, her childhood was marked by the absence of her father, who left the family when she was just six months old. It was her resilient and supportive mother who became the guiding force in Lima's life, shaping the values that would later define her character.

Despite the challenges of a single-parent household, Lima's dreams were boundless. Surprisingly, the young girl who would one day grace the covers of prestigious magazines and walk the runways of global fashion capitals harbored ambitions of becoming a pediatrician. This early aspiration reflects Lima's compassionate nature, a quality that resonates beyond the glamorous world of fashion.

A Rising Star in Modelling

Fate had different plans for Adriana Lima, and her journey into the world of modeling began at the tender age of 15. Winning Ford's "Supermodel of Brazil" competition catapulted her into the limelight, setting the stage for a remarkable career. The following year, Lima showcased her prowess by securing the second position in the Ford "Supermodel of the World" competition—an impressive feat for someone so young.

Her entry into the competitive realm of New York City's modeling scene occurred when she signed with Elite Model Management. This marked the beginning of a chapter that would see Lima rise to the pinnacle of the fashion industry. Known for her striking features, including her captivating blue eyes and luscious dark brown hair, Lima quickly became a sought-after model.

Victoria's Secret Angel and Beyond

Adriana Lima's name became synonymous with Victoria's Secret, where she held the prestigious title of Victoria's Secret Angel from 1999 to 2018. This unparalleled stint earned her the distinction of being the longest-running model in Victoria's Secret history. In 2017, Lima's contributions were recognized when she was bestowed with the title of "the most valuable Victoria's Secret Angel."

Beyond the lingerie brand, Lima's influence extended to other realms. She became a prominent face for Maybelline cosmetics in 2003, captivating audiences with her timeless beauty and poise. Lima's Super Bowl and Kia Motors commercials further showcased her versatility, solidifying her status as a global icon.

A Trailblazer in the Modeling Industry

Adriana Lima's impact on the modeling industry is not confined to her runway appearances and brand endorsements. Her accolades include being ranked as one of the "New Supers" by models.com, a testament to her enduring relevance and influence. Since 2014, Lima has consistently held the position of the world's second-highest-paid model.

Forbes, too, has recognized Lima's financial prowess, consistently placing her among the top earners. In 2012, she claimed the fourth spot on Forbes' list, with an estimated annual income of $7.3 million. Lima's earnings continued to soar, reaching $10.5 million in 2016, securing her second place on the prestigious list.

Diversity and Philanthropy

Adriana Lima's heritage reflects a rich tapestry of Portuguese, Native Brazilian, African, Japanese, Swiss, and West Indian roots. Personally identifying as Afro-Brazilian, Lima is a symbol of diversity in an industry that often grapples with representation. Her ability to seamlessly navigate various languages—Portuguese, English, Italian, and Spanish—further underscores her international appeal.

Outside the dazzling lights of the runway, Lima is deeply committed to philanthropy. Her humble beginnings and personal struggles fuel her dedication to charitable causes. She engages with organizations that resonate with her values, using her platform to advocate for positive change.

Brand Ambassador and Beyond

Adriana Lima's influence extends beyond the modeling realm. She has served as a brand ambassador for notable names such as Desigual, Calzedonia, Sportmax, IWC, Puma, Maybelline, and Chopard. These partnerships not only showcase Lima's versatility but also highlight her standing as a trusted and admired figure in the world of fashion and lifestyle.

As Lima continues to evolve and inspire, her legacy goes beyond the glamorous façade of the fashion industry. Her journey—from the streets of Salvador to the summits of international runways—serves as an inspiration to aspiring models and individuals striving to overcome obstacles in pursuit of their dreams.

In this tale of resilience, talent, and grace, Adriana Lima's narrative is a testament to the transformative power of ambition, hard work, and an unwavering belief in oneself. Her story continues to unfold, leaving an indelible mark on the world of fashion and beyond.

Adriana Lima: A Storied Journey from Beauty Pageants to Global Supermodel

Adriana Lima's ascent to the pinnacle of the modeling world is a captivating narrative that began unexpectedly. Born in Salvador, Brazil, Lima had never envisioned herself as a model, despite clinching numerous beauty pageant titles during her elementary school years. The fortuitous twist in her fate occurred when a friend, eager to participate in a modeling contest, persuaded Lima to join as a companion. Little did she know that this would be the spark that ignited her remarkable career.

At the age of 15, Lima emerged victorious in Ford's "Supermodel of Brazil" competition, propelling her onto the international modeling stage. Subsequently, she secured a commendable second place in the prestigious 1996 Ford Models Supermodel of the World contest. Lima's journey took a decisive turn when she relocated to New York City at the age of 16, signing with Elite Model Management, one of the industry's premier agencies.

Lima's runway debut at Anna Sui's New York Fashion Week show in September 1997 marked the beginning of an illustrious career that would see her grace the catwalks for renowned designers across the globe. From Balmain to Versace, Givenchy to Valentino, Lima became a sought-after presence, epitomizing elegance and grace on the runway.

Her foray into the world of magazines commenced with a bang, as she graced the cover of Marie Claire Brazil in September 1998. Soon, the coveted covers of Vogue Italia and Vogue Brasil followed, solidifying her status as a modeling force to be reckoned with. Lima's collaboration with GUESS in 2000 further catapulted her into the limelight, marking the beginning of a prolific career that would see her don the ambassadorial hat for a plethora of prestigious brands.

Maybelline, Swatch, Armani, Versace, Louis Vuitton - the list of iconic brands that sought Lima's endorsement grew steadily. Her versatility was evident in her ability to seamlessly transition from high fashion campaigns for Givenchy and Prada to mainstream brands like H&M and Victoria's Secret, where she became one of the celebrated Victoria's Secret Angels.

Lima's allure extended beyond print campaigns and runways, as she graced the covers and editorials of leading fashion magazines such as Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, ELLE, and GQ. Her April 2006 GQ cover achieved unparalleled success, emerging as the highest-selling issue of the year and etching her name in the annals of modeling history.

Not merely confined to the world of fashion, Lima's entrepreneurial spirit shone through. In 2006, she secured the fifth position among the highest-paid supermodels, a testament to her commercial appeal. Subsequent years saw her ascend the ranks, with Forbes consistently ranking her among the world's highest-paid supermodels between 2007 and 2015.

The year 2008 witnessed Lima's resurgence on GQ's cover, setting records for website visits. Her association with Italy's Telecom Italia Mobile earned her the sobriquet "the Catherine Zeta-Jones of Italy," underlining her global appeal. Lima's influence extended to the Mexican market, where she became the face of the Liverpool department store chain in 2008.

True to her Brazilian roots, Lima returned to the high fashion runway in 2009, gracing the catwalk for Givenchy. This was a prelude to her diversified ventures, including print campaigns and television commercials for Doritos in Turkey. Lima's ability to transcend cultural boundaries and connect with audiences was further evident in her endorsement deals with Brazilian gaming company Megacity by Votsu in 2011.

The years that followed showcased Lima's enduring relevance in the ever-evolving world of fashion. From being the face of Mavi Jeans in 2012 to her groundbreaking feature in the Pirelli calendar as the first pregnant woman in 2013, Lima continued to push boundaries and redefine conventional norms in the industry.

In 2014, Lima assumed the role of Desigual's brand ambassador, exemplifying the brand's ethos of confidence, optimism, and vitality. Her association with the Spanish fashion brand continued, culminating in her appointment as the first ambassador for Desigual during its 30th-anniversary celebrations.

Despite her towering success, Lima remained grounded, collaborating with Maybelline New York in 2014 and being chosen as the face of Vogue Eyewear and Marc Jacobs' fragrance Decadence in 2015. Her commitment to philanthropy was evident in her involvement in charity events, such as the Palms Casino Resort commercial, where she shared the screen with notable personalities like Cardi B and Rita Ora.

Lima's influence expanded beyond the runway, earning her ambassadorial roles with global brands like Puma and Schutz in 2018. The ensuing years saw her grace the campaigns of Miu Miu, Chopard, and Maybelline x Puma, reaffirming her status as an enduring icon in the fashion world.

As Adriana Lima continues to evolve and redefine the benchmarks of success in the modeling industry, her journey stands as a testament to resilience, versatility, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. From the sun-kissed beaches of Brazil to the global fashion capitals, Lima's story is not just that of a supermodel but a trailblazer who has left an indelible mark on the world of fashion and beyond.

Filmography

Over the course of her career, she has exhibited a versatile range of talents through her involvement in various film and television projects. In 1996, she contributed to the TV series "Pista Dupla," marking an early point in her career. As time progressed, her roles evolved, and in 2001, she took on the character of The Wife in the short film "The Hire: The Follow."

Transitioning seamlessly between television and film, she made notable appearances in popular shows. In 2007, she made a guest appearance as herself in an episode of "How I Met Your Mother" titled "The Yips." The following year, she graced an episode of "Ugly Betty" in 2008 with her presence, titled "Ugly Berry." These television roles showcased her ability to engage audiences across different genres and formats.

Venturing into the realm of cinema, she made a memorable cameo in the 2018 star-studded film "Ocean's 8." Her participation in this ensemble cast demonstrated her capacity to contribute to high-profile and widely acclaimed projects.

Most recently, in 2023, she took on a dual role as the star and executive producer in the short documentary film "FIFA: A Love Letter To Rwanda." This project not only underscores her commitment to storytelling but also highlights her interest in exploring diverse narratives, as evidenced by her involvement in a documentary format.

In essence, her career trajectory showcases a dynamic journey, marked by a spectrum of roles that span television series, short films, blockbuster movies, and even documentary production. This diversity not only attests to her acting prowess but also to her multifaceted engagement within the entertainment industry.

Public Image

Adriana Lima's prominence in the world of entertainment and fashion is underscored by her notable recognitions and accolades. In 2005, she earned a place in Forbes' edition of The World's Best-Paid Celebrities Under 25, reflecting her financial success at a young age. She further solidified her status by securing the ninety-ninth spot in the 2005 and 2006 editions of Forbes' Celebrity 100 lists.

In 2012, Lima's financial achievements continued to be acknowledged as she landed a spot on the Forbes Celebrity 100 power list, having earned over 7 million dollars between May 2011 and May 2012. Additionally, she claimed the eighth position on Forbes' "The World's Most Powerful Latino Celebrities" list in the same year.

Lima's allure and beauty have not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by her inclusion in People magazine's 100 Most Beautiful People in the world list. She shared this recognition with the Victoria's Secret Angels, with whom she received a star on the Hollywood "Walk of Fame" before the 2007 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show. Lima's appeal also resonated in FHM's "100 Sexiest Women 2007" list, where she secured the seventh position.

Her recognition extended to Maxim's "Hot 100" in 2007, where she was voted in at the 53rd spot. Lima's desirability was further emphasized when she was voted the Most Desirable Woman in 2005 by visitors of AskMen.com. This acknowledgment persisted in subsequent years, with rankings of 4th in 2006 and 2007, 10th in 2008, and 19th in 2009. Lima's sizzling presence earned her the title of "Hottest Girl on the Planet" at the 2007 Spike Guys' Choice Awards.

Models.com, a respected platform in the fashion industry, consistently recognized Lima's allure by placing her at the number one spot on the list of the "Sexiest Models" since November 2008. In July 2011, she earned the 4th position in the website's "Money Girls" list, a testament to her financial success in the modeling industry. Lima's influence transcends the fashion realm, as demonstrated by her inclusion in "the Supers" list, which features supermodels with widespread public recognition.

Her enduring appeal was evident in FHM's rankings, where she claimed the eighth position in "FHM's Sexiest Women in the World" in 2010. Prior to that, she was ranked 6th in 2009, 21st in 2008, and an impressive 4th in 2007. Lima's consistent recognition across various prestigious lists speaks to her enduring impact on the world of fashion and her status as a globally celebrated figure.

In 2010, Adriana Lima secured the 46th position among the 50 most popular women on the web-based on Google search results. Notably, a market research study in 2011 focused on the UEFA Champions League, conducted by Heineken, revealed an intriguing statistic: 52% of men expressed a preference for watching their favorite team lift the Champions League trophy over going on a date with Lima. This underscored her widespread appeal and the impact of her popularity on diverse interests.

In the realm of cybersecurity, McAfee recognized Lima's digital presence by ranking her as the 6th most "dangerous" celebrity in cyberspace in 2010. This designation was related to the misuse of popular celebrities' names to attract individuals to websites loaded with malicious software. Lima maintained a notable position in this context, securing the 8th spot in 2011.

In 2012, Complex, a cultural magazine, acknowledged Lima's enduring allure by ranking her 4th in the list of "The 100 Hottest Supermodels of All Time." This recognition attests to her lasting impact in the world of fashion and beauty.

Lima's commitment to her profession was evident in her preparation for the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show. In a 2011 interview with The Daily Telegraph, she disclosed her rigorous routine, which included consuming only protein shakes for nine days before the show and abstaining from liquids for the final 12 hours to achieve the desired dryness.

She also revealed her intensive workout regimen, exercising twice a day in the three weeks leading up to the event. While these practices garnered media attention and some criticism, Lima defended her approach in an interview with E!, emphasizing her dedication to the craft and clarifying that such intensity was specific to preparing for the fashion show. She asserted that after the event, she returned to a more conventional lifestyle.

The impact of Lima's routines extended beyond headlines, as evidenced by the Adriana Lima diet becoming one of the top five most searched diets on the web in 2012. This reflects not only her influence in the fashion industry but also her broader impact on popular culture and public interest.

Adriana Lima's influence and recognition have transcended traditional modeling avenues, earning her a place of distinction in various spheres. In a notable announcement on October 6, 2015, it was revealed that Lima would be immortalized with her wax figure at Madame Tussauds New York.

Notably, she became the first Victoria's Secret Angel to receive this honor and the second Brazilian figure to join the illustrious Tussauds star lineup, following in the footsteps of soccer legend Pelé. The unveiling of her meticulously crafted wax figure took place on November 30, 2015, marking a momentous occasion in Lima's career.

Her impact on the fashion industry was further underscored in March 2019 when she was chosen as the Fashion Icon honoree at the Daily Front Row Awards. This recognition speaks to Lima's enduring influence and status as a fashion trailblazer.

In 2021, HOLA! USA, a prominent publication, acknowledged Lima as one of the "Changemakers" in their "Latina Powerhouse Top 100" list. This designation not only highlights Lima's cultural significance but also positions her among influential figures making a positive impact and driving change.

Adriana Lima's journey from the runways to being immortalized in wax and receiving accolades for her fashion influence attests to her multifaceted impact and enduring legacy in the world of entertainment and culture.

Personal Life

Marital and Relationship History:

Adriana Lima has experienced two marriages in her life. Initially, she tied the knot with Serbian NBA player Marko Jarić, with their engagement in 2008 culminating in a Valentine's Day wedding in 2009. The couple welcomed two daughters into the world, Valentina Lima Jarić and Sienna Lima Jarić. However, in 2014, Lima and Jarić publicly declared their separation, leading to the finalization of their divorce in 2016.

Following her divorce from Marko Jarić, Lima has been notably discreet about her personal life. Although she has been associated with various individuals, including Turkish self-help author and healer Metin Hara, she generally maintains a low profile.

Motherhood:

Lima embraces the role of motherhood, with two daughters, Valentina and Sienna, shaping her family life. She occasionally shares glimpses of these precious moments on social media, highlighting her dedication to the role of a mother.

Commitment to Philanthropy:

Adriana Lima actively engages in charitable endeavors, championing causes centered around children's health, education, and well-being. Her philanthropic contributions extend to collaborations with organizations such as the St. Luke Foundation for Haiti and serving as a spokesperson for the Biennial of the United Nations.

Religious Beliefs:

In an interview with GQ in April 2006, Lima shared her devout Roman Catholic faith, emphasizing her regular attendance at Mass every Sunday. At that time, she also openly expressed her commitment to abstinence until marriage, stating, "Sex is for after marriage," and underlining the importance of respect for her choices in relationships. Lima firmly stood by her stance, asserting that if there is no respect, it signifies a lack of genuine interest in her.

Furthermore, Lima publicly denounced abortion as a crime, aligning herself with the teachings of the Catholic Church. Her views on this matter garnered attention, particularly when footballer and former FIFA Council member Moya Dodd criticized her position. In response, Lima's publicist, Laurent Boye, issued a statement in March 2023, indicating a shift in Lima's stance on abortion. The statement affirmed Lima's advocacy for a healthy lifestyle and acknowledged her evolving perspectives on LGBTQIA+ and women's issues, positioning her as an ally in these matters.

In a 2017 interview with Ocean Drive, Lima revealed a past practice of bringing a copy of the Bible to read backstage before fashion shows. Intriguingly, she disclosed that prior to her Victoria's Secret Angel days, she aspired to become a nun. Lima's spirituality is a central aspect of her life, and she expressed, "The church is in me — I always connect." She emphasized the significance of maintaining pure intentions and connecting with the divine, asserting that such a stance invites protection from angels. Lima described herself as very spiritual, citing beliefs in nature, energy, and spirits.

On her social media platforms, Lima consistently highlights and pays tribute to Yemanjá, a water spirit from the Yoruba religion. This demonstrates her openness to diverse spiritual influences and showcases her multifaceted approach to matters of faith and belief.

Farewell to Victoria's Secret:

In a significant career move, Adriana Lima announced her retirement from the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show in 2018. After nearly two decades of gracing the brand's runway, her final appearance during the 2018 show garnered widespread acclaim and appreciation from fans and fellow models.

Privacy and Updates:

Known for her discretion, Lima generally keeps the details of her personal life away from the public eye. This overview encapsulates information up until 2022, and any subsequent developments or alterations in her personal life would necessitate referencing more recent sources.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the narrative of Adriana Lima's life is a captivating journey that unfolds from the vibrant streets of Salvador, Brazil, to the summits of international runways and beyond. From the challenges of a single-parent household to becoming the longest-running Victoria's Secret Angel, Lima's story is one of resilience, versatility, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Her ascent in the modeling world, marked by prestigious awards and recognitions, showcases Lima's enduring influence and impact. Not confined to the realm of fashion, Lima's forays into film, television, and philanthropy underscore her multifaceted contributions.

As a cultural icon, Lima's image resonates globally, representing diversity in an industry that often grapples with representation. Her financial success, as recognized by Forbes, mirrors her standing as one of the world's highest-paid models. Lima's commitment to philanthropy, shaped by her humble beginnings, reflects a deep sense of social responsibility.

Her personal life, marked by motherhood and discreet romantic associations, adds layers to the narrative of a woman who balances public prominence with a commitment to privacy. Lima's strong Catholic faith serves as a guiding force, influencing her life choices and actions.

The announcement of her retirement from the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show in 2018 marked a poignant moment in her career, symbolizing a transition while leaving an indelible mark on the iconic runway.

Adriana Lima's tale is not just that of a supermodel but a trailblazer whose journey inspires individuals to overcome obstacles in the pursuit of their dreams. As her story continues to evolve, Lima's legacy stands as a testament to the transformative power of ambition, hard work, and an unwavering belief in oneself, leaving an enduring imprint on the world of fashion and beyond.