In a stunning development in the world of high fashion, 29-year-old supermodel Gigi Hadid has surpassed Gisele Bündchen, 44, to become the second-highest paid model of 2025.
The news marks a significant milestone in Gigi’s already illustrious career and signals a shift in the modeling industry as the younger generation continues to make its mark.
Gigi Hadid’s rise to the top has been nothing short of extraordinary. Known for her striking beauty, athletic physique, and versatility on the runway, Gigi has become one of the most recognizable faces in the modeling industry over the past decade.
She first shot to stardom in the early 2010s, signing major campaigns and walking for some of the biggest fashion houses, from Versace and Chanel to Tommy Hilfiger and Prada. Her widespread appeal and strong social media presence have played a large role in propelling her into the upper echelons of the fashion world.
However, the news of Gigi surpassing Gisele in earnings for 2025 comes as a surprise to some, especially considering Gisele’s lengthy career and her status as one of the most iconic supermodels of all time.
Gisele, who retired from runway shows several years ago, has remained a major force in fashion and continues to rake in substantial earnings through her various partnerships, brand deals, and business ventures.
Despite her relatively low profile in recent years, Gisele has long maintained a spot at the top of the modeling income charts, often ranking as the highest-paid model globally.
So, how did Gigi manage to overtake the Brazilian beauty this year? Much of Gigi’s success can be attributed to her ongoing collaborations with leading fashion brands and her ability to adapt to the rapidly evolving fashion industry.
Over the past year, Gigi has secured high-profile partnerships with both established and emerging brands. Her partnerships include lucrative deals with luxury brands like Valentino, Fendi, and Burberry, as well as campaigns for tech companies, beauty products, and lifestyle brands.
These deals, combined with her growing presence in the digital world, have helped Gigi command an impressive salary and solidify her place as one of the top-earning models of her generation.
One of Gigi’s major advantages in the current fashion climate is her massive following on social media. As the fashion world continues to shift toward influencer-driven marketing, models with strong social media presence are increasingly in demand.
Gigi has mastered this space, with millions of followers across platforms like Instagram, where she regularly posts about her personal life, work projects, and philanthropic endeavors.
This level of engagement with fans has opened up numerous opportunities for Gigi, from collaborations with brands outside of traditional fashion to her own line of products.
Her ability to connect with her audience in such an authentic way has contributed to her ongoing relevance in the industry and, ultimately, her growing bank account.
While Gigi’s rise to the second-highest paid model slot is impressive, it’s essential to acknowledge the significant impact Gisele Bündchen has had on the modeling industry as a whole.
Gisele’s career, spanning over two decades, has set a high bar for success in the fashion world. From being the face of countless campaigns to building a successful business empire, Gisele has paved the way for many models who followed her.
She became a household name in the early 2000s, dominating runways and magazine covers with her signature looks and dynamic personality.
Her shift from runway modeling to a more entrepreneurial approach in recent years — including ventures in skincare and environmental activism — has allowed her to maintain an enviable level of financial success.
Despite Gisele’s continued influence in the industry, her transition away from the runway and into business ventures has slightly reduced her earning potential from traditional modeling contracts.
Gisele has transitioned into a more business-focused role, where her investments and brand partnerships have allowed her to maintain her financial success without the demanding schedule of runway shows.
However, Gisele’s focus on other areas of her life, such as her family and environmental advocacy, has opened the door for newer faces like Gigi to step into the spotlight and claim the top spots in modeling earnings.
The comparison between Gigi Hadid and Gisele Bündchen is more than just a matter of financial earnings; it represents a broader generational shift in the fashion world.
As social media continues to play a central role in how models build their careers, the industry is evolving rapidly. Models like Gigi, who are able to seamlessly blend their runway work with digital influence, are positioning themselves for long-term success.
Meanwhile, established supermodels like Gisele are redefining what it means to be a successful model in the modern era, with many choosing to pivot to entrepreneurial pursuits that offer more flexibility and sustainability.
Looking ahead, it seems that Gigi Hadid will continue to be a dominant force in the fashion industry, and her rising earnings show no sign of slowing down. Her ability to adapt to new trends, maintain a strong brand presence, and cultivate valuable partnerships will keep her at the top for years to come.
As for Gisele Bündchen, her legacy is firmly established, and her business ventures will continue to keep her in the conversation as one of the most influential figures in fashion history.
In conclusion, Gigi Hadid’s rise to become the second-highest paid model of 2025, surpassing the legendary Gisele Bündchen, marks a new era in the modeling world. With her unique blend of traditional runway work and social media savvy, Gigi is proving that the future of fashion modeling is rapidly evolving.
While Gisele’s career remains iconic, Gigi’s success serves as a reminder that the industry is constantly shifting, and the new generation of models is making its mark in a big way.