Gisele Bündchen, the unstoppable runway queen, striding down a Dior catwalk in the late ’90s, her signature “horse walk” sending shockwaves through Paris. Fast-forward to 2025, and the same woman is posting barefoot yoga-in-the-garden snapshots on Instagram, preaching mindfulness and sustainability. The contrast is almost cinematic — the angel who once wore Victoria’s Secret wings is now planting trees as a UN Climate Action ambassador.
Forbes crowned her the world’s highest-paid model for 14 straight years, a feat that cemented her status as fashion royalty. But what makes Gisele’s story fascinating isn’t just the money or the magazine covers — it’s the pivot. She didn’t fade into obscurity after stepping away from the runway.
Instead, she rewrote what it means to be a supermodel in the modern age: eco-conscious, grounded, and influential in an entirely new way. As Vogue once noted, “Her legacy isn’t just in fashion, it’s in how she redefined it.”
Gisele Bündchen’s Early Fashion Breakthrough
How a Brazilian Teen Conquered Paris Fashion Week
At just 14, Gisele Bündchen was discovered in a bustling São Paulo mall, her future unknown but brimming with possibility. She was shy, a teenager unsure of her own potential, yet something about her 5’11” frame caught the eye of an Elite Model Look scout. It was a whirlwind ascent — from Brazil’s sun-drenched streets to the dazzling lights of Paris.
Her first runway show? Nerve-wracking, she recalls, but the fashion world quickly embraced her. “She had something rare,” remembers her first mentor, a former Dior executive. By 1998, Gisele was already walking for Dior, Alexander McQueen, and more, turning heads with her stunning Brazilian beauty and commanding presence.
From the moment she stepped onto Paris’ most iconic runways, Gisele’s life changed forever — and she became a global icon.
Gisele Bündchen was discovered at 14 in a São Paulo mall, and by 1998, she was already on Paris runways for Dior and McQueen.
Defining the 2000s Supermodel Era
The 2000s were the golden years for supermodels, and Gisele Bündchen reigned supreme. As a Victoria’s Secret Angel, she became the face of a global phenomenon, her golden hair splashed across billboards worldwide. Can you even picture that decade without her?
Gisele’s influence was undeniable — Forbes crowned her the highest-paid model for 14 consecutive years, a feat unmatched by her peers. From Versace campaigns to being the centerpiece of high-fashion editorials, her name was synonymous with luxury.
As one fan posted in an early 2000s blog, “Gisele’s face is what I remember most from my teen magazines. She was fashionable.” Her legacy wasn’t just in campaigns, but in how she defined an era.
Signature Style That Defined Her Runway Years
The ‘Horse Walk’ and Power Dressing Aesthetic
Gisele Bündchen’s “horse walk” became legendary — a strong, stomping stride that dominated the runway and set her apart from her peers. Fashion critics called it her signature, blending confidence and grace in a way few could replicate. “It was a force of nature,” said a Vogue critic. “You couldn’t take your eyes off her.”
Backstage, Gisele was focused and determined, with a quiet power that translated into every step she took on the runway. It wasn’t just about walking; it was about owning the space.
Her walk inspired a generation of models, from Naomi Campbell to the next wave of supermodels, who saw how a powerful presence could elevate an entire show.
Red Carpets, Met Gala Moments, and High Fashion
Gisele Bündchen owned every red carpet she graced, with standout moments like the 2011 Met Gala in a show-stopping Valentino couture gown. Her 2009 Oscar appearance in a gold Versace gown also turned heads, effortlessly blending timeless elegance with modern allure. Honestly, if Pinterest had existed in 2003, her looks would’ve crashed servers.
Vogue called her “the epitome of red-carpet royalty,” while Harper’s Bazaar described her as “an iconic vision in every gown.” Fans still remember her ensembles fondly. One Tumblr user posted, “Gisele’s Met Gala look from 2011 still gives me chills,” echoing the lasting impact of her style.
What Makes Gisele Bündchen’s Style Unique?
Gisele Bündchen’s style is the perfect marriage of effortless Brazilian chic and high-fashion luxury. Growing up in the small town of Horizontina, Brazil, her beauty has always been rooted in natural simplicity: sun-kissed skin, sandy hair, and a relaxed, beachy vibe. She effortlessly combines this laid-back aesthetic with the polished glam of global couture, often pairing her minimalist beauty with the most luxurious gowns from Chanel and Versace.
Is it effortless, or is it calculated? The way she effortlessly walks between runway shows in Paris and barefoot in nature makes us wonder — does she work to make it look so easy? Fans have always noticed how her look is both attainable and aspirational, thanks to her unpretentious vibe and undeniable elegance.
Her style is more than just about fashion — it’s about embracing her roots and redefining glamour on her terms.
Her style blends Brazilian minimalism with global couture, making her both relatable and aspirational.
Transition to Eco-Friendly Fashion
From Victoria’s Secret Angel to Sustainability Angel
Gisele Bündchen’s transition from Victoria’s Secret Angel to eco-fashion advocate is nothing short of inspiring. After years of gracing lingerie catwalks, she stepped away from the world of fast glamour to embrace slow fashion and sustainability. As she said in a 2020 interview with Vogue Brazil, “The environment is our responsibility. We must take action.”
Her pivot wasn’t just career-driven; it was purpose-driven. Once the face of fast fashion, Gisele is now a vocal supporter of eco-conscious brands like Stella McCartney and a UN Climate Action ambassador. The paradox is clear: “Once the face of fast glamour, now the face of slow fashion.”
Through her campaigns and activism, Gisele has shown that true beauty lies in sustainable choices, encouraging us to rethink our fashion habits.
The Rise of Green Fashion Advocacy
Gisele Bündchen has made a significant shift toward sustainable fashion, partnering with eco-friendly brands like Stella McCartney, known for her use of recycled fabrics and organic cotton. As of 2025, Gisele has been a key figure in championing climate-conscious fashion, aligning herself with brands that prioritize the environment. Forbes reports that the sustainable fashion market is projected to grow by over 10% annually, a trend that Gisele has embraced wholeheartedly.
But her advocacy goes beyond the runway. Gisele is an active voice in the fight for the Amazon Rainforest, supporting reforestation initiatives and contributing to the UN Climate Action campaigns. Her partnership with eco-brands reflects her belief that fashion can be both luxurious and sustainable.
Gisele Bündchen vs Other Supermodels’ Style Paths
Naomi Campbell’s Legacy vs Gisele’s Evolution
| Naomi Campbell | Gisele Bündchen |
| Diversity trailblazer | Sustainability powerhouse |
| First Black model on many runways | Eco-conscious fashion advocate |
| Icon of 1990s supermodel era | Champion of slow fashion |
Naomi Campbell ignited a movement, breaking barriers for Black models and leading the charge in diversity. “She lit the torch,” as Vogue put it, “and Gisele kept it burning.” Gisele, on the other hand, took the torch from Naomi and ran with it — but in a different direction. While Naomi changed the face of fashion, Gisele has changed its conscience, using her platform to advocate for eco-friendly fashion and sustainable luxury.
Their legacies, though different, both shine brightly — two crowns, on very different thrones.
How She Redefined Longevity Compared to Peers
While many of Gisele’s peers, like Claudia Schiffer and Cindy Crawford, saw their careers wane as the supermodel era faded, Gisele’s relevance has only grown. Her unmatched longevity is reflected in Forbes, where she remained the highest-paid model for 14 years, outlasting many of her contemporaries.
In 2025, she graced the cover of Vogue, not as a has-been, but as a lasting influence in both fashion and sustainability. Her career is a testament to how longevity is now measured in impact, not just runway hours.
While others fade into nostalgia, Gisele’s evolution into a global ambassador for slow fashion shows that a model’s influence doesn’t have to be fleeting.
Has Gisele Bündchen Retired from Modelling?
Gisele Bündchen may have stepped away from the traditional runway shows, but she’s far from retired. In 2025, she continues to appear in high-profile shoots for brands that align with her sustainability values. One such example is her stunning feature in Vogue Brazil, where she effortlessly embodied eco-conscious elegance in a shoot dedicated to organic fashion.
Her collaboration with Stella McCartney is another testament to her lasting influence in the fashion world. By pairing her timeless beauty with McCartney’s sustainable designs, Gisele remains a sought-after figure in the fashion industry, even if her appearances are now more selective.
Retired? More like selectively legendary. Gisele has proven that she can pick and choose her projects, only committing to those that align with her personal values and the causes she champions.
As of 2025, Gisele hasn’t retired — she models selectively for eco-focused brands.
Style Lessons Fans Can Learn from Gisele
Embracing Minimalism and Natural Beauty
Gisele Bündchen’s beauty is the epitome of effortless minimalism. Her natural, sun-kissed hair, bronzed skin, and laid-back style are all about embracing what’s real. “Beauty is being comfortable in your own skin,” Gisele once shared in an Elle interview, highlighting her belief that less is more when it comes to self-care.
Her approach to beauty goes beyond makeup — it’s about skincare and simple routines that let her natural glow shine through. Think coconut oil for hydration, not contouring.
The takeaway? Simple doesn’t mean boring. From beachy waves to radiant skin, Gisele has mastered the art of casual chic.
Investing in Sustainable Luxury Pieces
When it comes to fashion, Gisele Bündchen’s mantra is simple: buy fewer, but better. Investing in sustainable luxury pieces not only supports eco-friendly brands but also leads to a more timeless wardrobe. Instead of chasing fleeting trends, Gisele opts for high-quality items that stand the test of time — and that’s a smart approach for anyone looking to create a lasting impact.
One standout collaboration is with Stella McCartney, known for her commitment to sustainable fashion. By choosing eco-conscious pieces from McCartney and luxury retailers like Net-a-Porter, you’re investing both in style and the planet.
Start with one eco-luxury swap — whether it’s a timeless Stella McCartney bag or a sustainable jacket. It’s a small change that makes a big difference.
Cultural Impact of Gisele Bündchen’s Fashion Choices
Gisele Bündchen’s influence extends far beyond the runway — her fashion choices have nudged an entire generation toward eco-awareness and conscious consumption. As a longtime advocate for sustainability, Gisele has used her platform to spotlight eco-friendly brands, encouraging her millions of fans to think more carefully about what they wear. It’s not just about luxury; it’s about aligning with brands that promote a greener, more ethical world.
In 2025, Gisele was named one of Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People, a recognition that underscored the cultural impact of her environmental advocacy. Her ability to seamlessly blend high fashion with sustainability has inspired countless followers to rethink their shopping habits.
On Instagram and Twitter, fans have praised her for leading by example. One user tweeted, “Gisele is proof that you can be a fashion icon and still care about the planet.”
Her impact is evident in how her choices have shaped conversations around eco-conscious fashion.
From Supermodel to Style Icon With Purpose
Gisele Bündchen’s evolution from supermodel to eco-icon is a testament to the power of reinvention. “She once sold fantasy, now she sells responsibility,” as Vogue aptly put it. No longer just the face of high-end lingerie, Gisele has become the face of sustainability, using her platform to advocate for climate action and eco-conscious fashion.
Her style legacy is more than just iconic looks on the runway — it’s a reflection of how style can be a powerful form of activism. Whether it’s her collaboration with Stella McCartney or her work with the UN on environmental campaigns, Gisele proves that fashion isn’t just about what you wear, but what you stand for.
In a world where influence often fades, Gisele’s lasting impact proves that a model’s true power lies in the choices she makes — for herself, for fashion, and for the planet.
FAQs About Gisele Bündchen Style
What is Gisele Bündchen’s signature style?
Gisele’s signature style blends Brazilian minimalism with global couture. She often pairs natural beauty — bronzed skin and sun-kissed hair — with timeless luxury pieces from designers like Chanel and Dior.
Is Gisele still modeling in 2025?
Yes, Gisele models selectively in 2025, primarily for eco-conscious brands like Stella McCartney. Her focus is on sustainability, reflecting her commitment to a greener fashion future.
What brands has Gisele Bündchen collaborated with?
Gisele has worked with high-end brands like Dior, Chanel, and Stella McCartney, emphasizing eco-friendly fashion. She’s a strong advocate for sustainable, luxury brands that align with her environmental values.
How has Gisele contributed to sustainability activism?
As a UN Climate Action ambassador, Gisele actively supports environmental campaigns and promotes sustainable fashion. She partners with eco-conscious brands and uses her platform to raise awareness.
When did Gisele retire from runway modeling?
Gisele retired from the traditional runway shows years ago but continues to appear selectively in fashion campaigns focused on sustainability.
Mohit Wagh is the co-founder of The Graval with over 10 years of experience in SEO and content strategy. He specializes in crafting data-driven, authoritative content that blends cultural insight with digital growth.
