Josephine Skriver, a Danish model renowned for her work as a Victoria's Secret Angel, has carved a significant niche in the fashion industry, not only for her striking presence on the runway but also for her advocacy for LGBTQ rights and her diverse portfolio that spans numerous high-profile campaigns and editorials. Her journey from Copenhagen to the global fashion stage is marked by determination, talent, and a commitment to using her platform for advocacy.

From Copenhagen to the Catwalk

Born on April 14, 1993, in Copenhagen, Denmark, Josephine Skriver's entry into the fashion world was serendipitous yet impactful. Her mother, an information technology analyst, and her father, a marine biologist, both openly identified as part of the LGBTQ community, which would later influence Skriver's advocacy work. Skriver and her younger brother, Oliver, were conceived through in vitro fertilization, a choice that reflects her parents' desire to build a family despite societal norms. This unique family background set a foundation for her future role as an advocate for LGBTQ families, and Skriver has often spoken about the importance of representation and acceptance.

Skriver's modeling potential was first recognized at the age of 15 during a trip to New York with her football team. A scout approached her, and shortly thereafter, she signed with Unique Models, a prominent international modeling agency based in Copenhagen. Although other agencies outside Denmark showed interest, Skriver prioritized her education and decided to complete her schooling before fully pursuing modeling in 2011. This decision to focus on her education before diving into the modeling world demonstrates her grounded approach and commitment to personal development.

Career Milestones

Skriver's debut season in Fall/Winter 2011 was marked by significant achievements that set the tone for her career. She had the prestigious opportunity to open for Alberta Ferretti and close for Prada, two roles that are highly coveted in the fashion industry. Opening and closing shows are indicators of a model's status and potential, and Skriver's early success in these roles underscored her promise as a rising star. Her early success continued as she walked for a roster of elite designers including Calvin Klein, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Givenchy, Valentino, Alexander McQueen, Balenciaga, DKNY, and Christian Dior. These appearances not only established her as a rising star but also demonstrated her versatility and appeal across diverse fashion aesthetics.

Over the years, Skriver has walked in over 300 fashion shows, further solidifying her status as a top model. Her presence has graced the runways of Chanel, Oscar de la Renta, Versace, Tommy Hilfiger, Elie Saab, Louis Vuitton, and many others. Her work extends beyond the runway to advertising campaigns for prestigious brands such as H&M, Dior, Gucci, Bulgari, Michael Kors, MAC Cosmetics, Armani Exchange, and Victoria's Secret, showcasing her ability to embody the varied identities of global fashion houses. These campaigns highlight her adaptability and appeal across different markets and demographics.

In February 2016, Skriver was named a Victoria's Secret Angel, a title that marked a significant milestone as she became the first Danish model to hold this position since Helena Christensen. Her tenure with Victoria's Secret has been distinguished by her appearances in every Victoria's Secret Fashion Show since 2013. Notably, in 2016, she was chosen to wear the Swarovski outfit, a dazzling creation adorned with 450,000 crystals, highlighting her as a standout figure in the show. This moment was a testament to her rising prominence within the brand and the industry at large.

Her editorial presence is equally impressive, with covers for international editions of Vogue, Elle, and Harper's Bazaar among others, and features in Marie Claire, Vanity Fair, V Magazine, Interview, L'Officiel, and W. Skriver has collaborated with iconic photographers such as Mario Testino for Michael Kors, Steven Meisel for Vogue Italia, Tim Walker for American Vogue, Greg Kadel for German Vogue, and Patrick Demarchelier for Dior, each collaboration further cementing her status in the fashion world. These collaborations with top photographers are a testament to her versatility and ability to bring a unique presence to each project.

Advocacy and Influence

Josephine Skriver's advocacy for LGBTQ rights is deeply personal and closely tied to her upbringing. Inspired by her parents' openness and her unique family structure, Skriver uses her platform to champion the normalization of LGBTQ families. In 2015, she became a celebrity ambassador for the Family Equality Council's Outspoken Generation Program, which aims to raise awareness about LGBTQ families and promote acceptance. Skriver has expressed her hope that one day her story will no longer be seen as extraordinary, signifying broader societal acceptance. Her activism extends to participating in Pride events and publicly speaking out against discrimination, making her a prominent voice in the movement for equality. Her efforts in advocacy reflect a commitment to using her visibility to foster understanding and change.

The Private Side

Skriver's personal life has been as notable as her professional one. Since 2013, she has been in a relationship with American musician Alexander DeLeon, the lead vocalist of the band The Cab. The couple announced their engagement in November 2018, with a romantic proposal that took place under the Northern Lights in Finland. They married in April 2022 in an intimate ceremony in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Their family expanded with the birth of their daughter, Aurora James, in August 2023. Skriver and DeLeon reside in Los Angeles, where they continue to balance their professional commitments with family life. Skriver is also a sports enthusiast, supporting Manchester United, the NHL's Nashville Predators, and the NFL's Las Vegas Raiders. Her personal interests and family life provide a well-rounded picture of a model who values balance and personal fulfillment alongside her career achievements.

Where She Is Now

Josephine Skriver continues to make waves in the fashion industry, recently expanding her repertoire into jewelry design, showcasing her versatility and creative vision beyond modeling. She remains a sought-after figure on the runway and in advertising campaigns, maintaining her enduring appeal and influence in the fashion world. Her journey from Copenhagen to international stardom is a testament to her talent, resilience, and commitment to using her platform for positive change. As she continues to evolve her career, Skriver remains a prominent figure in fashion, admired not only for her professional achievements but also for her dedication to advocacy and personal growth.

Sources

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Josephine Skriver

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