Gisele Bündchen: A Journey Through Iconic Moments

Gisele Bündchen launched her modeling career during her teenage years. At 16, she moved to New York City after being discovered at a mall in Brazil. Her journey was not without challenges, as she faced numerous rejections before her breakthrough in 1998 with Alexander McQueen’s fashion show.

In April 2016, Bündchen shared with PEOPLE how she felt fortunate during her rise in the fashion world. “I didn’t really know anything about fashion. I saw jobs as opportunities to travel the world and make some money so I could also help my family back home,” she remarked.

As years passed, Bündchen became the highest-paid model globally. In a 2026 W Magazine cover story, she shed light on her evolving perspective. “After more than 30 years in front of the camera, I’ve come to really understand everything that goes into creating an image,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of self-confidence and authenticity.

Here’s a look at 10 memorable moments from Gisele Bündchen’s career.

01 of 10: Mirror, Mirror

Back in 1996, Bündchen tried on a Carolina Herrera gown, giving her a preview of the designer’s Fall collection. She wore a black open-back gown with sequin straps during her fitting.

02 of 10: Leather and Rhinestones

In December 1999, Bündchen won the Model of the Year award at the VH-1 Fashion Awards. She donned a white button-down shirt, leather mini skirt, and accessorized with a rhinestone choker and belt.

03 of 10: Signature Strut

In July 1999, Bündchen walked the runway with Naomi Campbell and Valentino Garavani at the Valentino Haute Couture show. She wore a red flowy dress with spaghetti straps and rose-embellished heels.

04 of 10: Backstage Beauty

Backstage in 2000, Bündchen was seen during her hair and makeup session. She sported a double-denim outfit and was caught reading ‘The Lost Books of the Bible and the Forgotten Books of Eden.’

05 of 10: Angel Wings

During the 2000 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in Cannes, Bündchen graced the runway in a gold bikini and micro skirt, accompanied by gilded feather wings.

06 of 10: Brazilian Beauty

At São Paulo Fashion Week in 2000, Bündchen returned to her roots. She modeled a red sequined bandeau, navy textured jeans, and a fur coat among other outfits.

07 of 10: Opening Day

In December 2000, at the opening of Victoria’s Secret’s Lincoln Center store, Bündchen wore the $15 million ‘Fantasy Bra’ complemented by a nude sheer top and beige satin pants.

08 of 10: Y2K Style

Attending the MTV Video Music Awards afterparty in 2003, Bündchen sported a Y2K-style outfit, featuring a sheer sparkly top, green micro skirt, and silver bangles, complete with a silver flip phone.

09 of 10: Calling a Cab

In the 2004 premiere of ‘Taxi’ in New York City, Bündchen posed with Jimmy Fallon. Her iconic peace sign photo featured a playful taxi backdrop.

10 of 10: Arena Tour

During the 2004 Victoria’s Secret Supermodels Angels Across America Tour, Bündchen attended an NBA game in Miami, wearing a custom airbrushed shirt with her name on the front.