From runway to entrepreneur: The multifaceted career of model Lily Aldridge

From runway to entrepreneur: The multifaceted career of model Lily Aldridge
Image: Intellect (generated)

In short: Born to an artist and a model, Lily Aldridge transitioned from a teenage face for Abercrombie & Fitch to a global icon. As a long-standing Victoria's Secret Angel and a versatile entrepreneur, her career spans high-fashion editorials, music video cameos, and the launch of her own sustainable fragrance brand.

Lily Maud Aldridge, born in 1985 in Santa Monica, California, began her modeling trajectory at age 16. Her early career was marked by a campaign for Abercrombie & Fitch, which served as a springboard for extensive work with major global brands including Coach, Tommy Hilfiger, and Levi's. Her editorial presence has been equally prolific, gracing the covers of international editions of Vogue, Elle, and Glamour, while appearing in high-profile campaigns for companies like Proactiv and XOXO.

A defining chapter of her career was her tenure as a Victoria's Secret Angel from 2010 to 2018. During this period, she gained significant industry recognition, culminating in the honor of wearing the $2 million Fantasy Bra in 2015. This intricate piece, designed by jeweler Mouawad, featured over 6,500 precious gems. Her influence extended beyond the runway into popular culture, with appearances in music videos for Taylor Swift and Kings of Leon, as well as a role in the 2018 film Ocean's 8.

In recent years, Aldridge has pivoted toward independent ventures, emphasizing sustainability in her business practices. In 2019, she launched Lily Aldridge Parfums, debuting with scents like Haven and Summit. These products reflect a commitment to environmental consciousness, utilizing responsibly harvested wood for bottle caps and recycled materials for packaging. Alongside these professional milestones, Aldridge maintains a personal YouTube channel and balances her public life with her family, having married musician Caleb Followill in 2011.

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