Candice Swanepoel, the South African supermodel, has captivated the fashion world for nearly two decades, evolving from a quintessential Victoria’s Secret Angel to a multifaceted entrepreneur and mother. Her journey showcases not only a physical transformation but also a significant professional and personal evolution, culminating in a recent, highly anticipated return to the Victoria’s Secret runway in 2025.
The Early Years: Discovery and Rise to Stardom
Born on October 20, 1988, in Mooi River, South Africa, Candice Swanepoel’s modeling career began at a young age. Discovered by a model scout at a Durban flea market when she was just 15, Swanepoel quickly transitioned from a “farm girl” with an inclination for ballet to a rising star in the fashion industry. By the age of 16, she was already booking local fashion shoots before heading to Europe to further her career. By 2006-2007, she had entered elite modeling circles, working with major brands like Dolce & Gabbana, Givenchy, and Tommy Hilfiger.
Earning Her Wings: The Victoria’s Secret Era
The biggest milestone in Swanepoel’s early career arrived in 2007 with her debut in the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. Her athletic physique, blonde hair, and striking features quickly made her a “Victoria’s Secret Favourite.” By 2010, she officially earned her coveted “Angel” wings, a prestigious status reserved for a select few models. As an Angel, Swanepoel gained global fame, dominating Victoria’s Secret ad campaigns, TV spots, and catalogues.
Iconic Moments as a Victoria’s Secret Angel
Her tenure as an Angel was marked by several memorable moments:
- Opening Stores: In 2010, she opened the first Victoria’s Secret retail store in Canada.
- Swim Catalogue Cover: In 2013, she was named the cover model of the highly sought-after Victoria’s Secret Swim Catalogue.
- The Royal Fantasy Bra: The pinnacle of her Victoria’s Secret career came in 2013 when she was chosen to wear the “Royal Fantasy Bra” at the annual fashion show. This opulent bra, created by Mouawad, was valued at $10 million and adorned with over 4,200 precious gems, including rubies, diamonds, and yellow sapphires, centered by a 52-carat ruby.
Throughout her time with Victoria’s Secret, Swanepoel consistently ranked among Forbes’ list of top-earning models, reaching eighth place in 2016 with estimated earnings of $7 million.
Beyond the Runway: Motherhood and Entrepreneurship
After years as a Victoria’s Secret Angel, Swanepoel’s life and career began a significant transformation. She embraced motherhood, welcoming her first son, Anaca, in 2016, and her second son, Ariel, in 2018. Despite a brief break to expand her family, she quickly returned to the modeling scene, demonstrating her resilience and dedication.
Launching Tropic of C: A Sustainable Vision
A pivotal moment in her “now” transformation was the launch of her eco-conscious swimwear brand, Tropic of C, in 2018. This venture marked her shift into entrepreneurship, driven by a desire to create high-quality, sustainable swimwear inspired by nature’s beauty and her South African heritage. Tropic of C focuses on ethically sourced, luxurious, and sustainable fabrics, expanding into dance-inspired activewear by 2020. Swanepoel emphasizes sustainability as a core value, aiming to create a brand she can be proud of from all angles, rather than contributing to environmental problems. She has also been featured as a guest judge for the swimwear episode of Netflix’s “Next in Fashion” in 2023, further solidifying her expertise in swimwear design.
Continued High Fashion and Philanthropy
Even as she built her brand, Swanepoel continued to be a prominent figure in high fashion. She has walked for esteemed designers like Fendi, Chanel, Versace, and Oscar de la Renta, and graced the covers of prestigious magazines such as Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and Elle.
Swanepoel is also actively involved in philanthropy. She is a global ambassador and patron for mothers2mothers, a charity dedicated to creating an “HIV-free generation” for children and mothers in Africa, a cause close to her heart as a mother and someone with strong ties to Africa.
A Triumphant Return to Victoria’s Secret in 2025
In 2025, at 36 years old, Candice Swanepoel made a highly anticipated return to the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, held on October 15 in New York City. Her appearance was celebrated as a nostalgic yet powerful moment, bridging the brand’s storied past with its reimagined, more inclusive future. Swanepoel graced the runway in two striking ensembles, including a black lace lingerie set with a matching cloak and a brown lace ensemble complete with golden wings, embodying her iconic “angel” persona. Her comeback alongside a diverse mix of models and performers underscored Victoria’s Secret’s evolving identity.
The Enduring Transformation
Candice Swanepoel’s journey is a testament to her enduring presence and adaptability in the fashion industry. From her early days as a fresh-faced “farm girl” to becoming a global supermodel, a Victoria’s Secret icon, a successful entrepreneur, and a devoted mother, her transformation showcases a trajectory of continuous growth and self-reinvention. She has evolved beyond merely modeling clothes to actively shaping the industry through her business ventures and advocating for causes she believes in.
