Natalia Vodianova, often hailed as one of the most influential models of the 21st century, has carved a unique path from a challenging childhood in Russia to the pinnacle of the fashion world. Born on February 28, 1982, in Gorky (now Nizhny Novgorod), Vodianova grew up in poverty, selling fruit at a local market to support her family. Her discovery by a modeling scout at age 16 marked the beginning of a transformative journey.
Vodianova's rise to fame accelerated after she moved to Paris at 17, quickly becoming a favorite of luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Calvin Klein. Her striking features and ethereal presence earned her the nickname 'Supernova' in the industry. By her early 20s, she had graced over 200 magazine covers and walked for every major fashion house.
Beyond modeling, Vodianova co-founded the Naked Heart Foundation in 2004, which has built over 200 play parks for children in Russia and supported families raising kids with disabilities. Her philanthropic work earned her the Harper's Bazaar Woman of the Year Award in 2014.
In 2020, Vodianova launched Elbi, a digital platform connecting users with charitable causes through micro-donations. She continues to advocate for mental health awareness and women's rights, stating in a recent interview: 'True beauty lies in using your voice to uplift others.'
Now a mother of five and married to businessman Antoine Arnault, Vodianova balances her roles as entrepreneur, philanthropist, and muse. Her story exemplifies how resilience and compassion can coexist with global success, making her a modern icon transcending the traditional boundaries of modeling.