Candice Swanepoel’s journey from a small-town girl in South Africa to an international modeling icon is nothing short of inspiring. Born on October 20, 1988, in Mooi River, she grew up on a dairy farm with her parents, Willem and Eileen, and her older brother, Stephen. Her early years were filled with ballet lessons and dreams of dancing professionally. At the age of 15, her life took a dramatic turn when a modeling scout discovered her at a flea market in Durban. This chance encounter led her to Europe, where she began her modeling career, walking for renowned designers like Tommy Hilfiger and Dolce & Gabbana.
Candice’s rise in the fashion industry was meteoric. In 2007, she made her debut at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, and by 2010, she had earned her wings as an official Victoria’s Secret Angel. Her career reached new heights in 2013 when she was chosen to wear the $10 million “Royal Fantasy Bra,” adorned with over 4,200 precious gems. Beyond Victoria’s Secret, Candice graced the covers of international editions of Vogue, Elle, and Harper’s Bazaar, and walked the runways for luxury brands such as Chanel, Fendi, and Versace.
In 2018, Candice ventured into entrepreneurship by launching her own swimwear line, Tropic of C. The brand reflects her commitment to sustainability, offering eco-friendly designs that blend fashion with environmental consciousness. Tropic of C’s success was recognized when it won the Launch of the Year award at the 5th Annual Daily Front Row Awards. Candice’s business acumen and dedication to ethical fashion have solidified her status as a savvy entrepreneur.
Candice’s personal life has been equally eventful. She met Brazilian model Hermann Nicoli in Paris when she was 17, and the couple became engaged in 2015. They have two sons together, Anacã and Ariel, born in 2016 and 2018, respectively. Although the couple parted ways in 2018, they continue to co-parent their children amicably. Candice often shares glimpses of her family life on social media, showcasing her role as a devoted mother.
Philanthropy holds a significant place in Candice’s life. She is a global ambassador for mothers2mothers, a charity focused on eliminating pediatric AIDS in Africa. Candice has designed denim pieces for the organization and actively participates in initiatives aimed at supporting mothers and children affected by HIV. Her dedication to giving back highlights her compassionate nature and commitment to making a positive impact.
Candice’s influence extends beyond the runway and philanthropy. She has been featured in campaigns for major brands like Tom Ford, Givenchy, and Nike, and has appeared in editorials for magazines worldwide. Her versatility as a model is evident in her ability to seamlessly transition between high fashion and commercial work. Her collaborations with various designers and photographers have cemented her status as a fashion industry mainstay.
In recent years, Candice has continued to evolve professionally. She participated in a SKIMS campaign alongside fellow supermodels Heidi Klum, Tyra Banks, and Alessandra Ambrosio, showcasing the brand’s inclusive approach to fashion. Additionally, she has been involved in projects that celebrate the legacy of supermodels, such as Russell James’s “Angels” exhibition, which featured iconic portraits of Candice and her peers.
Candice’s dedication to health and wellness is evident in her lifestyle choices. She maintains a balanced diet, focusing on fresh, healthy foods, and incorporates boxing into her fitness routine. Her approach to self-care emphasizes the importance of physical and mental well-being, serving as an inspiration to many. Candice often shares her wellness journey with her followers, promoting a message of self-love and confidence.
Despite her success, Candice remains grounded and connected to her roots. She splits her time between Brazil and New York City, embracing the diverse cultures that have shaped her life. Her multilingual abilities—speaking Afrikaans, English, and Portuguese—reflect her adaptability and global perspective. Candice’s authenticity and humility continue to endear her to fans worldwide.
Candice Swanepoel’s journey from a farm in South Africa to the pinnacle of the fashion industry is a testament to her talent, resilience, and determination. Her multifaceted career encompasses modeling, entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and motherhood, showcasing her ability to excel in various roles. As she continues to evolve and inspire, Candice remains a shining example of grace, strength, and success.
