The Model Who Became a Mogul
Heidi Klum spent 11 years as a Victoria's Secret Angel, wore the most expensive Fantasy Bra in history, and then pivoted into one of the most successful post-modeling careers of any supermodel — proving that a lingerie model could become a businesswoman, producer, and cultural icon.
The Victoria's Secret Years (1999–2010)
Klum became a Victoria's Secret Angel in 1999 and quickly became one of the brand's most recognizable faces:
- 1999: Wore the $12.5 million Millennium Fantasy Bra — at the time, the most expensive piece of lingerie ever created, made with over 2,000 diamonds and sapphires
- Walked 13 consecutive VS Fashion Shows
- Her blonde-haired, blue-eyed, German supermodel image became iconic of the VS aesthetic
- Left the brand in 2010 after 11 years
Beyond the Wings
Unlike many models who faded from public view after their runway years, Klum built a media empire:
- Project Runway (host and executive producer, 16 seasons, Emmy Award)
- Germany's Next Top Model (host, 18+ seasons)
- America's Got Talent (judge, 2013–present)
- Founded her own lingerie line Heidi Klum Intimates (2015–2018)
- Launched skincare and fashion brands
The Halloween Queen
Klum's annual Halloween party became one of the most anticipated celebrity events of the year, with increasingly elaborate costumes that demonstrated her understanding of spectacle and transformation — skills first honed on the VS runway.
Why She Matters
Klum demonstrated that the skills developed as a lingerie model — understanding of the body, comfort with performance, ability to connect with audiences — could transfer into entirely new careers. She was one of the first supermodels to leverage her lingerie fame into a media career, paving the way for Tyra Banks, Karlie Kloss, and others.
From the Victoria's Secret runway to the judge's table. The Angel who proved there was life after the wings.