Jelena Noura "Gigi" Hadid has spent more than a decade defining modern fashion. From her childhood discovery by Guess to headlining international runways and launching her own knitwear label, she transitioned from a high-profile industry fixture into a global brand.
Standing at 5 feet 10.5 inches (1.79 meters) with measurements of 34-25-35 inches (86-64-89 cm), Hadid helped shift the trajectory of 21st-century modeling. Her path combines legacy roots, relentless work ethic, and a deliberate pivot toward entrepreneurship and motherhood.
Early Life and Equestrian Roots
Born on April 23, 1995, in Los Angeles, California, Hadid grew up surrounded by the entertainment and real estate industries. Her mother, Yolanda Hadid, was a Dutch former model, and her father, Mohamed Hadid, is a real estate developer. Following her parents' divorce, she and her siblings—including sister Bella and brother Anwar—spent their formative years on a Santa Barbara ranch, where horses played a central role in her daily life.
Before fashion took over, competitive horseback riding was her primary focus. She trained daily and aimed for Olympic-level equestrian competition, a discipline she credits with building her physical stamina and mental toughness. She attended Malibu High School, where she served as captain of the varsity volleyball team alongside her riding commitments. After graduating in 2013, she relocated to New York City to study criminal psychology at The New School, balancing coursework with early modeling assignments before putting academics on hold to pursue the runway full-time.
The Rise of a Modern Supermodel
Hadid’s entry into the industry began early when Paul Marciano discovered her at age two, leading to campaigns for Baby Guess. She stepped away from the spotlight to experience a normal childhood before officially signing with IMG Models in 2013.
Her official New York Fashion Week debut arrived in 2014, quickly followed by her entry into the Top 50 Models ranking on Models.com. Her career accelerated through high-profile collaborations with major houses, multiple international Vogue covers, and a long-standing role as a global brand ambassador for Maybelline. In 2016, the British Fashion Council named her International Model of the Year, cementing her status among a generation of digital-first icons who bridged traditional couture with social media influence.
Evolution Into Entrepreneurship and Design
Rather than relying solely on runway work, Hadid expanded her professional footprint into product design and media. In 2022, she launched Guest in Residence, an independent cashmere knitwear brand focused on sustainable, durable luxury pieces. As founder and creative director, she handles design development and material sourcing, shifting her daily routine from fittings and call sheets to manufacturing logistics and retail strategy.
She also crossed into television hosting, co-hosting the Netflix fashion competition series Next in Fashion alongside Tan France. This move showcased her approachable personality and deep technical knowledge of garment construction, offering audiences a look past her editorial persona.
Personal Life, Family, and Public Scrutiny
Operating under intense public scrutiny for over a decade, Hadid maintains clear boundaries between her career and private life. She shares a daughter, Khai, born in 2020, with her ex-partner, British singer Zayn Malik. The two navigate co-parenting primarily between New York City and rural Pennsylvania, aiming to shield their daughter from paparazzi exposure.
Beyond her nuclear family, Hadid maintains a tight-knit circle within the fashion and entertainment sectors, and her relationship with actor Bradley Cooper has drawn significant media attention since they were first linked. Furthermore, she is active in philanthropic efforts, supporting humanitarian initiatives and disaster relief fundraising.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Gigi Hadid's exact height and weight?
Gigi Hadid stands at 5 feet 10.5 inches (1.79 meters). Her weight fluctuates depending on her runway schedules and health routines, but industry profiles generally record her weight around 58 kg (128 lbs).
Does Gigi Hadid still walk major fashion weeks?
Yes. While she selectively chooses her runway appearances compared to her peak touring years, she continues to anchor high-profile shows for legacy luxury houses, including Chanel, Versace, and the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show.
What is Guest in Residence?
Guest in Residence is a New York-based cashmere knitwear company founded by Hadid in 2022. The brand focuses on high-grade, durable knit garments designed to transcend fast-fashion cycles.
How did Gigi Hadid get her start in modeling?
She was discovered as a toddler by Paul Marciano of Guess and starred in Baby Campaigns before taking a break for school. She returned to the industry professionally after signing with IMG Models in 2013.
