There was a brief but inglorious period in the overdue 2000s and early 2010s when many people wondered whether the era of supermodels had actually officially ended. Major faces could still be seen on the runway, with a handful of renowned working models and large ’90s stars being wooed to walk the runway, but has fashion created a true celebrity model in recent memory? Things started to turn around when the Hadid sisters entered the picture, with their fashion pedigree and obvious love for the industry. Although little sister discovering Bella Hadid’s beauty evolution is undeniable proof that her it-girl spirit has been present since she first signed a contract – at the age of 16, mind you.
That was exactly 10 years ago, and in that miniature decade, Hadid transformed herself from perky newcomer to one of the most bankable names of all time. She has been featured in exotic European editorials, headlined major fashion week shows, collaborated with the Victoria Secret brand, and even created her own just-launched brand, Orebella, which took her to a modern level of influence.
Below, learn how it all happened to Hadid as we journey through her beauty evolution as she grows from a juvenile teenager into the megastar she is today.
A fresh-faced newcomer in 2014
Hadid signed her first modeling contract and made her runway debut at the age of 16, following in the footsteps of her older sister Gigi. With a fresh face, minimal makeup, and natural brown hair in miniature, air-dried waves, she’s the ultimate canvas.
Basic sophistication in 2015
Just a year later, Hadid was shooting some of her biggest covers and campaigns. Elegant for over 17 years, her subtle, shimmering beauty style evoked the Venerable World elegance that designers and bookers admired.
I’m trying modern cuts in 2016
Two years after starting her professional career, at the age of 18, Hadid was honored as Model of the Year by more than a few outlets. By this point, however, she was no longer just a staple on the runway. She regularly appeared on red carpets around the world, including: at the Cannes Film Festival, where she debuted with a pair of sensual side bangs.
I met Bob at the 2017 gala
For her first two Met Galas, Hadid kept it sheltered and classy — something that certainly wasn’t the case at her 2017 fundraiser. Hadid opted for sparkly red nail polish and a miniature, shoulder-length bob with her jeweled jumpsuit.
Full splendor in 2018
If there’s one thing Hadid loves, it’s a glamorous moment. She went all out for the 2018 event with long, reflective hair, metallic fluff, lots of trendy highlights, and a highlighting glow along the lower lash line.
Golden Blonde in 2019
Hadid has tried every hair color imaginable on the runway and on magazine covers, but it’s not very common that she also chooses this color in real life. In 2019, she debuted a spectacular golden blonde ombré that changed her entire look.
Vintage ruffled fringe in 2020
What better way to start a brand modern decade than with a fresh hairstyle to match? Hadid went back to her usual espresso brunette, but added a pair of miniature, choppy bangs that showed off her gently arched brows.
Complicated updo in 2021
Hadid might do her best work on the Cannes red carpet if you think about it. She made headlines at the 2021 festival with her massive Schiaparelli necklace that resembled blood cells in the lungs, but her braided bun with straightened hair cascading down her back is equally exquisite.
Hearty hair in 2022
Returning to her horse girl roots with a classic pair of bangs and hip-length waves, Hadid’s style has taken on an undeniably wholesome, down-to-earth feel in 2021. Even her makeup seemed more subdued, focusing on glossy lips and a fresh, rosy cheek.
2023
While the tight curls shown here were technically created for Tom Ford’s spring 2023 ready-to-wear show, she was seen sporting spiraling curls for weeks – both left free and pulled back into cute buns and ponytails.
2024
These days, Hadid toggles between ranch casual – she reportedly moved to Fort Worth to be with her real-life cowboy boyfriend – and Up-to-date York supermodel. With the launch of her line, Orebella is back in town in a sultry half-up style and the most piercing cat eye makeup.
