Gigi Hadid

IMG Models · New York

Early Life / Background

Gigi Hadid, born Jelena Noura Hadid on April 23, 1995, in Los Angeles, California, grew up in a family with deep ties to the entertainment and business worlds. Her father, Mohamed Hadid, is a prominent real estate developer of Palestinian descent, while her mother, Yolanda Hadid (née Build), is a Dutch-born former model and television personality known for her appearances on shows like The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.

Career Development

Gigi Hadid's professional modeling story reignited in 2011 when she signed with IMG Models, a leading global agency renowned for representing top-tier talent such as Kate Moss, Gisele Bündchen, and Adriana Lima. Based primarily in New York, IMG Models has been instrumental in launching and sustaining careers in the high-stakes fashion capital, where the agency's offices serve as a hub for scouting, development, and deal-making.

Notable Work & Campaigns

Gigi Hadid's portfolio is a reflection to her status as a leading figure in contemporary fashion. In 2014, she starred in campaigns for Guess, revisiting her childhood connection with the brand through their holiday and jeans collections, which showcased her effortless style and broad appeal.

Industry Context

Gigi Hadid's career unfolds within the active field of the global fashion industry, where New York remains the epicenter for commercial and ready-to-wear segments. As a model based in New York and represented by IMG Models, she operates in a market valued at billions, driven by Fashion Weeks that dictate trends twice yearly.

Current Status & Legacy

As of 2023, Gigi Hadid remains one of the most in-demand models, continuing to walk runways and star in campaigns while balancing personal life. She welcomed her daughter, Khai, with musician Zayn Malik in September 2020, which has influenced her selective approach to work, focusing on projects that align with her values as a mother.