Adriana Lima stands as one of the most iconic supermodels in fashion history, renowned for her nearly two-decade tenure as a Victoria’s Secret Angel from 1999 to 2018. Born on June 12, 1981, in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil, she rose from humble beginnings in a single-parent household to become a global sensation, gracing over 500 magazine covers and walking runways for top designers worldwide. This comprehensive guide explores her early life, groundbreaking career milestones, personal journey, recent triumphs, and enduring legacy, offering readers an in-depth look at what makes her a timeless figure in modeling. Discover her physical stats, family details, brand partnerships, acting ventures, philanthropy efforts, and tips for aspiring models inspired by her path. With a height of 5 feet 10 inches and striking blue-green eyes paired with dark brown hair, Lima’s banana-shaped figure (measurements 34-24-35 inches) captivated audiences, earning her spots on Forbes’ highest-paid models lists multiple times. From her 2024 runway return at Paris Fashion Week to walking the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in both 2024 and 2025, she continues to redefine longevity in an ever-evolving industry. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast or curious about her balanced life as a mother of three, this article uncovers the facts behind the phenomenon.
Early Life Origins
Adriana Lima grew up in the Castelo Branco neighborhood of Salvador, Brazil, raised primarily by her mother, Maria das Graças Lima, a social worker, after her father left when she was six months old. At age 12, she entered and won the Ford “Supermodel of the World” contest in Brazil, which propelled her into the industry at 15, leading to a move to New York City and a contract with Elite Model Management. Initially aspiring to become a pediatrician, Lima balanced early modeling gigs with education at Colegio da Bahia before fully committing to fashion.
Her mixed Portuguese, African, and Native Brazilian heritage shaped her unique look, blending exotic features that agencies coveted during the late 1990s supermodel boom. Family support, including time with her father before his 2015 passing, instilled resilience that defined her career trajectory.
Rise to Fame
Lima’s breakthrough came in 1999 when she debuted for Victoria’s Secret, quickly ascending to “Angel” status in 2000 with signature wings and tropical-themed outfits. She opened shows in 2003 and 2007, fronting campaigns that made her the brand’s longest-serving face, walking 18 fashion shows over 18 years. By 2006-2007, Vogue named her Model of the Year, cementing her as a runway powerhouse for brands like Fendi, Prada, and Marc Jacobs.
Beyond Victoria’s Secret, her first major magazine cover was Marie Claire Brazil in 1998, followed by over 500 others including GQ and Vogue editions globally. Earnings soared, placing her among Forbes’ top 10 highest-paid models repeatedly through the 2010s.
Victoria’s Secret Era
From 1999 to 2018, Lima embodied Victoria’s Secret’s fantasy allure, earning the title “most valuable Angel” in 2017 for her sales impact on lingerie and fragrances. She starred in high-profile commercials, including a Super Bowl spot, and walked annual fashion shows that drew millions of viewers, often in elaborate diamond-encrusted bras worth millions. Her departure in 2018 allowed focus on family, but her legacy persists as the brand’s record holder.
Post-retirement, Lima renewed ties in 2024, attending and participating in the relaunched show, followed by a 2025 appearance in Brooklyn alongside Gigi Hadid and Alessandra Ambrosio. These returns highlight her irreplaceable draw.
Key Runway Moments
Iconic walks included the 2008 Fantasy Bra valued at $2 million and opening the 2012 show pregnant, showcasing her professionalism. Her poise under pressure, honed by boxing training, set her apart from peers.
Career Highlights Beyond VS
Lima expanded into beauty with long-term Maybelline ambassadorships, Guess, Giorgio Armani, Puma, and Sportmax deals, blending luxury and athleisure. Acting credits feature cameo roles in “Ocean’s Eight” (2018) alongside Sandra Bullock, “How I Met Your Mother,” and “The Dreamers 3,” proving her versatility. Philanthropy includes support for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Red Cross disaster relief, animal rights, and Brazil’s Caminhos da Luz orphanage, where she donated game show winnings to leukemia care.
Her net worth exceeds $95 million from modeling, endorsements, and savvy investments, reflecting smart business acumen.
Personal Life Journey
Lima married Serbian basketball player Marko Jarić on Valentine’s Day 2009, welcoming daughters Valentina (2010) and Sienna (2012) before separating in 2014 and divorcing in 2016. In 2021, she began dating producer Andre Lemmers, sharing son Cyan (born August 2022) and blending families with his two children from prior relationships; they wed in December 2024. Now based in Los Angeles, she prioritizes motherhood while maintaining fitness through boxing.
A devout Roman Catholic, Lima often shares family outings, like recent posts with her lookalike daughter aspiring to model.
Recent Comebacks 2025
In September 2024, Lima ended a six-year runway hiatus at Schiaparelli’s Paris Fashion Week spring/summer 2025 show, calling it “special” after family time. She followed with Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show returns in 2024 (New York) and 2025 (Brooklyn), strutting alongside K-pop stars and supermodels. These moves signal a selective resurgence, focusing on empowering projects.
At 44, her 2025 agenda includes potential brand campaigns aligning with her athletic image.
Practical Tips for Fans
Fans can follow Lima via her Instagram (@adrianalima) with over 30 million followers for real-time updates, workout routines, and family glimpses—posts go live daily around 9 AM PST. No public events have fixed schedules, but fashion weeks (September in New York/Paris, February/March Milan) often feature her; tickets via official sites start at $200, bookable through Ticketmaster or Vogue World apps. Access runways virtually on YouTube or Victoria’s Secret streams, free post-event.
Travel to sightings: Fly into JFK for New York shows (Delta nonstop from major hubs, $300+ roundtrip) or CDG for Paris (Air France, similar costs); use Uber from airports (20-40 minutes, $50-100). Expect crowds, so arrive early; pack layers for variable venue temps (60-75°F).
- Dress comfortably in chic athleisure like Puma gear she endorses.
- Bring phone for photos, but respect no-flash rules.
- Hydrate and wear supportive shoes for standing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Adriana Lima?
Adriana Lima is a Brazilian supermodel born June 12, 1981, best known as Victoria’s Secret’s longest-serving Angel from 1999-2018. She has walked for top brands, appeared in films like Ocean’s Eight, and supports charities globally. Today, she balances modeling comebacks with raising three children.
How tall is Adriana Lima?
Adriana Lima measures 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) tall, with a weight around 132 pounds (60 kg) and body measurements of 34-24-35 inches. Her blue-green eyes and dark brown hair enhance her signature look. These stats contributed to her success in high-fashion runways.
What is Adriana Lima’s net worth?
Adriana Lima’s net worth tops $95 million, built from Victoria’s Secret contracts, Maybelline and Guess endorsements, and acting roles. Philanthropy and investments boost her wealth. She ranks among historically highest-paid models.
How many kids does Adriana Lima have?
Adriana Lima has three biological children: daughters Valentina and Sienna with ex-husband Marko Jarić, and son Cyan with husband Andre Lemmers. She also helps raise Lemmers’ two kids. Family remains her top priority post-2018 career pivot.
Why did Adriana Lima leave Victoria’s Secret?
Adriana Lima retired from Victoria’s Secret in 2018 to focus on family after 18 years and two pregnancies. She sought balance amid high-pressure shows. She returned selectively in 2024-2025 for special events.
What are Adriana Lima’s body measurements?
Her measurements are 34C-24-35 inches, with shoe size 10 US and dress size 4 US. Maintained via boxing workouts. These fueled her banana body type ideal for lingerie modeling.
Did Adriana Lima act in movies?
Yes, Adriana Lima appeared in Ocean’s Eight (2018), How I Met Your Mother episodes, and The Dreamers 3. Roles highlight her transition beyond catwalks. More acting may follow her 2025 resurgences.
What brands does Adriana Lima endorse?
Adriana Lima partners with Maybelline, Guess, Puma, Giorgio Armani, and Sportmax for beauty, fashion, and fitness campaigns. Deals earn millions annually. Puma tapped her boxing passion in 2018.
When did Adriana Lima return to runways?
Adriana Lima resumed runways in September 2024 at Schiaparelli Paris Fashion Week after six years off. She walked Victoria’s Secret shows in 2024 and 2025. These mark family-focused selective work.
Is Adriana Lima married now?
Yes, Adriana Lima married Andre Lemmers in December 2024 after welcoming son Cyan in 2022. They live in Los Angeles with blended family. Previous marriage to Marko Jarić ended in 2016.
Best Adriana Lima runway moments?
Top moments include 2008’s $2 million Fantasy Bra, 2012 pregnant opener, and 2025 VS Brooklyn show. These showcase poise and impact. Fans rewatch on YouTube.
Where does Adriana Lima live?
Adriana Lima resides in Los Angeles, California, since around 2022. Proximity suits family life and U.S. gigs. She grew up in Salvador, Brazil.
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