Sophia Michaels
Adriana Lima is a well-known figure in the modeling industry, having started her career in 1997. Over the years, she has worked with numerous renowned fashion houses and magazines, establishing herself as one of the top supermodels of her generation.
Even at 40, Adriana Lima remains a sought-after model. After taking a break from her career, she made a grand return in 2023. Her journey from Salvador to the global fashion scene is nothing short of remarkable.
Adriana Lima’s Early Years with Her Mother
Adriana Lima was born in 1981 in Salvador, Brazil, and was raised by her mother and grandmother. Despite her father not being present in her life, she was surrounded by strong female figures who instilled important values in her.
Growing up in a conservative environment, Lima’s early fashion choices were modest. However, as she matured, her style evolved, reflecting her transformation over the years.
The Start of Lima’s Modeling Career
Adriana Lima never imagined pursuing a career in modeling as a child. She only discovered her interest in her mid-teens, eventually winning a modeling contest that kickstarted her career.
Initially reserved and adventurous, Lima’s journey into the world of fashion began unexpectedly. Her success in modeling competitions opened doors to opportunities she had never imagined.
Joining Elite Model Management
Adriana Lima signed with Elite Model Management during the early days of her career, marking a significant milestone in her journey as a model.
The agency played a crucial role in shaping Lima’s career and helping her establish herself as a prominent figure in the fashion industry.
Adriana Lima’s Journey to Success
Adriana Lima’s modeling career took off when she moved to New York in 1997 and signed with Elite Model Management. Soon after, she appeared in various high-profile campaigns and graced the covers of magazines like Marie Claire and Vogue in both Italian and Brazilian editions.
In a 2024 interview with The Cut, Lima shared insights into her iconic runway walk that set her apart during the era of ’90s supermodels.
Victoria’s Secret Angel
Adriana Lima’s career reached new heights when she became a Victoria’s Secret Angel in 1999 at the young age of 19. Over the years, she became a prominent figure for the lingerie brand, walking multiple Victoria’s Secret Fashion Shows and earning recognition as one of the most valuable Victoria’s Secret Angels of all time.
Maybelline Spokesmodel
Known for her association with various prestigious brands, Adriana Lima had a significant tenure as a Maybelline spokesmodel. Her affiliation with the makeup giant spanned from 2003 to 2009 and was renewed in 2014, emphasizing her long-standing relationship with the brand.
In an endorsement statement, Lima expressed her pride in being a Maybelline representative and her excitement for future collaborations. She also shared her makeup preferences, showcasing her genuine connection to the brand and its products.
GQ Recognition
Adriana Lima’s Relationship Journey
Adriana Lima was romantically linked to Lenny Kravitz and Derek Jeter before finding love with Marko Jarić, to whom she got engaged in 2008, demonstrating his romantic side by proposing on her birthday.
They tied the knot on Valentine’s Day the following year in Wyoming. Lima expressed her excitement about their future and the possibility of a bigger celebration in Brazil or Jarić’s native Serbia. Their marriage was described by Lima as living in a constant honeymoon, a phase she never envisioned until meeting Jarić.
Adriana Lima’s Super Bowl Commercial Triumph
Adriana Lima’s presence during the 2012 Super Bowl commercial breaks was a standout moment. She appeared twice, a first for a celebrity, endorsing Kia’s Optima model and Teleflora, which saw a substantial increase in sales and positive reviews from various platforms.
Her commercial appearances left a lasting impact and showcased her influence in the advertising world, solidifying her as a prominent figure in the industry.
Adriana Lima and Marko Jarić’s Split
In 2014, after five years of marriage, Adriana Lima and Marko Jarić announced their separation, emphasizing their commitment to co-parenting their two daughters amicably.
Lima briefly dated Miami Beach boxing coach Joe Thomas and was rumored to be linked to Justin Bieber, which she denied on “Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen.”
Lima’s Success as a Supermodel
Adriana Lima started making it to rich lists in 2005 and climbed the ranks over the years. By 2015, she was named the second highest-paid supermodel, earning $9 million, with a net worth of approximately $95 million.
Even though she dropped to sixth place on the supermodel rich list, Lima earned $30 million between 2022 and 2023 and highlighted that her focus is on being an inspiration rather than the money.
Retirement from Victoria’s Secret
After a remarkable two-decade tenure with Victoria’s Secret, Adriana Lima bid farewell to the iconic brand in 2018 after 18 fashion shows. She shared the news on Instagram and expressed gratitude for the experiences and learnings from the company.
In 2023, Lima continued her association with Victoria’s Secret by starring in their Icons campaign alongside other supermodels and fronting their new fragrance, Heavenly Eau de Parfum.
Family Life with Andre Lemmers
Adriana Lima’s Personal Life and Relationship
Adriana Lima is in a relationship with Andre Lemmers, a movie and TV producer. They share moments on social media, with Lemmers even assisting on Lima’s TikTok account. The couple went viral for a video where Lima surprised Lemmers with a positive pregnancy test. They welcomed a son named Cyan in 2022.
Despite being a mom of five at 42, Lima made a comeback to Victoria’s Secret in 2023. She expressed gratitude for being celebrated in her current phase of life.
Controversy Surrounding Adriana Lima’s FIFA Ambassadorship
In 2023, Adriana Lima was appointed as a FIFA fan ambassador, sparking a debate over her qualifications for the role. Critics questioned her lack of affiliation with football and suggested athletes like Sam Kerr or Megan Rapinoe could have been better choices.
FIFA faced backlash for selecting Lima due to her past controversial statements on topics like dieting, LGBTQ+ issues, and abortion. Lima’s publicist clarified that her views have evolved, and she is considered an ally to these causes.
Adriana Lima’s Stance on Body Positivity
Adriana Lima responded to online criticism about her appearance post-pregnancy in 2023. She dismissed claims of cosmetic procedures and shared the reality of being a busy mom of five. Lima opens up about self-acceptance and the struggles she faces with her body image.
