The Gigi Phenomenon: Paul Marciano’s Moment of Discovery to Today

by Kristen Heinzinger

BFA_1442163640_1643084What does it take to make a supermodel? Well, in this day and age, it’s more than mere gorgeousness. For starters, it requires a smashing personality, social media savvy, and an uncanny ability to take a top-notch photograph. But it’s a certain je ne sais quoi that produces top talents like Gigi Hadid. Let’s look closer, shall we?

Gigi By the Numbers!
2: Age of discovery
2: Siblings
4: Number of music video appearances
4: Age at first GUESS campaign
510: Height
6: Letters in her full name (“Jelena”)
8: Appearances on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills
14: GUESS campaigns
16: Age mom Yolanda was discovered as a model
23: Volleyball number
200: Weeks since first Instagram post
530: Following on Twitter
530+: Selfies published
600+: Following on Instagram
1995: Birth year
2,010+: Instagram posts
2011: Signs with IMG
2012: Named face of GUESS
2013: Moves to New York
2015: Wins Model of the Year at The Dailys Fashion Los Angeles Awards
2015: Becomes a face of Maybelline New York
14,600: Tweets
640,000: Twitter followers
6,000,000Instagram followers

FINDING GIGI
GUESS’ Paul Marciano reminisces about his discovery of the 20-year-old mod nearly two decades ago.
How did you discover Gigi?
I’ve known Gigi since she was born. Her fresh look and charismatic personality just fit the mold for the GUESS brand.
Do you remember what it was like working with her as a kid?
Gigi was full of life, loved having fun, and always had a carefree attitude. Having her on set was always such a pleasure.
What’s it like working with her now?
Gigi has been part of the GUESS family for 18 years now, so it just feels natural. Each time she comes back and works for GUESS, it’s gratifying to see that she is the same confident and strong individual she always has been. It’s very rare to see someone earn so much success and not lose sight of their values.
How has your relationship evolved over the years?
Since Gigi began modeling at such a young age, I’ve been able to teach her new and valuable things throughout each stage of her life and modeling career. She has been able to turn to me for anything she needs, and I will continue to be there for her. But clearly, the stronger role model in Gigi’s life has been Yolanda, her mom. She instilled discipline, respect, and love for achievement into Gigi’s life since a very young age.
What do you think it is about Gigi that is so appealing to everyone?
Gigi has such an amazing personality—people just love her. Her natural beauty, positive attitude, and lighthearted nature are just magnetic. It’s truly been incredible watching her grow into one of the biggest models in the industry.
What do you want to see for her next?
Her stardom has blown up this past year, and I believe we are just barely starting to see the endless potential and talent that she can achieve.

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