Runway to the fortune? Top 10 models with highest net worth

Models have always been at the center of the fashion world. They shape beauty standards, set trends, and become well-known names around the world. Some models have achieved significant success, standing out not just for their popularity but for their influence and status. We have seen the rise of famous models who dominate runways, magazine covers, and public attention. 

Here’s a list of the top ten richest models today and what makes each of them unique. 

1. Gisele Bündchen 

Gisele is one of the most famous models in fashion history. She was on Forbes’ list of the highest-paid models for over ten years because of her long-term contracts with Victoria’s Secret and high-paying global campaigns. Over time, she expanded her work into skincare lines, eco-friendly fashion, and endorsements. After her divorce, she is now reportedly worth about $100 million more than her ex-husband Tom Brady, and she has a net worth of $400 million, showing her strong business skills. Gisele’s success demonstrates how modeling can lead to significant business influence.

2. Adriana Lima 

Victoria’s Secret Angel, Adriana Lima, walked nearly for twenty years for the brand and was named "the most valuable Victoria's Secret Angel" in 2017. She achieved a huge net worth from working for Maybelline and several global campaigns. Her career's longevity and professionalism changed her runway fame into major earnings of about $95 million in total net worth.

3. Alessandra Ambrosio 

Brazilian-born Alessandra began modeling at fifteen and gained fame with GUESS and then as a Victoria’s Secret Angel from 2004 to 2017. She walked hundreds of shows for Prada, Chanel, Armani, Dior, and many others worldwide. After leaving full‑time modeling, she launched a swimwear line, partnered with Nespresso, and judged Germany’s Next Topmodel. Her diversified career is estimated at approximately $80 million, placing her solidly in this ranking.

4. Chrissy Teigen 

Though better known now as a celebrity and author, Chrissy began as a model, appearing in major magazines and ads. She then branched into cookbooks, television, and social media, turning her modeling fame into a full entertainment and lifestyle brand. With multiple best‑selling cookbooks and ongoing endorsements, her $75 million net worth reflects how models can diversify into media and publishing. She gives fans a glimpse into her life and business with warmth and authenticity.

5. Kendall Jenner 

Before becoming a model, Kendall gained fame from the reality show "Keeping Up with the Kardashians," which focuses on the Kardashian family. She successfully transitioned into the fashion industry in 2014 and 2015. Since then, Kendall has collaborated with prestigious brands such as Chanel, Givenchy, Marc Jacobs, Burberry, Fendi, Versace, and Balmain. At her peak, she earned over $20 million a year, making her one of the highest-paid models according to Forbes since 2017. Additionally, Kendall established a brand called 818 Tequila and earns a substantial portion of her income from her extensive social media following. She is recognized as one of the brightest minds in the fashion industry, showcasing her ability to leverage fame and status to generate income.

6. Doutzen Kroes 

Discovered in 2003, Dutch model Doutzen Kroes became a Victoria’s Secret Angel and L’Oréal Paris ambassador. Earning up to $8 million annually at her peak, she also ventured into philanthropy and film. Her steady brand deals and diverse pursuits have built a $40 million fortune.

7. Liu Wen 

Liu Wen, the first East Asian model to dominate Western runways, broke barriers with campaigns for Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld, and Estée Lauder. Her global appeal in both Asian and Western markets has driven her $40 million net worth, highlighting her pioneering role in fashion.

8. Karlie Kloss

Karlie Kloss rose to prominence in the early 2010s as a Victoria’s Secret Angel and Vogue regular. Beyond modeling, she founded Kode with Klossy, a coding scholarship for girls, and invested in tech startups. Her blend of fashion and tech advocacy, plus high-value endorsements, supports her $40 million net worth.

9. Gigi Hadid

Gigi Hadid, today’s generation Iconic model, born in 1995, is known for her successful career in the fashion industry, as well as for her iconic runway walks. The white swan debuted at New York Fashion Week in 2014. Since then, she’s walked in a lot of high‑profile runway shows, appeared in over 50 international Vogue covers, and worked as a face of Maybelline and other brands. In 2017, Forbes ranked her among the top five earners, with an income of approximately $9.5 million that year. Since then, her earnings and equity have increased, bringing her net worth close to the $30 million mark. She also owns a luxury cashmere brand named Guest in Residence.

10. Bella Hadid 

Another Hadid sister in the list, Bella, who made his place on the richest models of this generation, chosen by Dior, Versace, Givenchy, and others, becoming a favorite for avant‑garde designers. She walked major fashion weeks and booked global campaigns. Sources estimate her net worth at around $25-29 million.

How did they turn into millionaires?

First, they didn’t rely only on catwalk fees. Most turned fame into brand partnerships, business lines, or active public personas. Second, they made smart choices. They built skincare and fashion businesses; some used their media presence, while others broke cultural barriers to global markets. They hustle for Long hours in shows, constant travel, public scrutiny, yet they often give back or mentor others. 

Moreover, this generation of supermodels is more than just a group of pretty faces walking down runways.