How Gisele Bündchen built a $400M empire after her split with Tom Brady and life beyond the runway
Tired of too many ads? go ad free now
From supermodel to super mogul: Her modeling career laid the groundwork for long-term wealth
From 2002 to 2017, Gisele Bündchen topped Forbes' list of highest-paid models, pocketing over $500 million through runway shows and major endorsements with brands like Victoria's Secret, Pantene, and Chanel. That financial foundation enabled her to pivot into business with more freedom and vision. Even after stepping back from full-time modeling, she remains in demand, collaborating with elite brands such as Louis Vuitton, Apple, and Under Armour for seven-figure campaigns.
Investing in sustainability with skincare and sandals that reflect her values
In 2021, Gisele launched Sejaa Skincare, a clean beauty brand that prioritizes plant-based ingredients and eco-friendly packaging. It's more than just a vanity project—it reflects her deep commitment to the environment. Sejaa isn't just selling face cream; it's pushing a wellness-driven, conscious beauty narrative that resonates with today's green-minded consumers.
Meanwhile, her longtime collaboration with Grendene for Ipanema Sandals has been a runaway success, with over 25 million pairs sold annually.
Made using recycled materials, the sandals merge her Brazilian roots with her environmental ethos—turning a fashion product into a sustainability statement.
Real estate, hospitality, and the power of well-placed investments
Gisele's property portfolio is just as diverse, including luxury homes in Florida, Montana, and Costa Rica—many of which are eco-conscious retreats. After her split from Tom Brady, she sold their $40 million Tampa mansion but held onto other high-value assets, showing smart real estate instincts.
Tired of too many ads? go ad free now
She's also ventured into hospitality with a boutique hotel in Costa Rica, offering guests a sustainable travel experience that's consistent with her brand image.
Her 2018 memoir, Lessons: My Path to a Meaningful Life, became a bestseller and continues to generate royalties. On social media, she earns six figures per post with brands like Stella McCartney and Beyond Meat—redefining what influence looks like in the luxury and wellness markets.
Also Read:
Gisele Bündchen's story proves that beauty and brains aren't mutually exclusive. By turning her fame into fuel for purpose-driven businesses, she's created a financial legacy that far outlasts her catwalk days.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Mint
13 minutes ago
- Mint
Brazil Finance Minister Fernando Haddad Says Meeting With Scott Bessent Was Canceled
(Bloomberg) -- Brazil Finance Minister Fernando Haddad said in a local television interview on Monday that a long-sought meeting with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent was canceled and hasn't been rescheduled. Haddad said he tried to set another time for the virtual gathering with Bessent, which had been set to take place this week, but has not been successful. He added that Brazil trade isn't a focal point for the US government. The cancellation marks the latest setback in a relationship that has soured quickly since the US government levied 50% tariffs on Brazilian goods earlier this month. Those trade barriers are part of a pressure campaign to get the country's Supreme Court to drop coup attempt charges against former head of state Jair Bolsonaro, who is an ally of Donald Trump. Haddad has spearheaded efforts to negotiate with the US, and had expressed hope that talks with Bessent would lead to additional breakthroughs after the Trump administration exempted nearly 700 products from the higher levies that went into effect last week. The Brazilian finance minister suggested during the interview, however, that Bolsonaro supporters in the US had played a role in scuttling the meeting with Bessent. 'The official reason given was a 'lack of availability,'' Haddad said, describing the explanation as 'unusual.' He noted that the issue extends beyond the Finance Ministry. Brazil President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said last week that he wants to see signs that the US is willing to negotiate in a way that treats his nation as an equal partner before he calls Trump to discuss the tariffs. Haddad reiterated that point during the interview, while saying that Lula has not closed the door on a phone call with Trump. Finance ministry officials with meet with both Lula and Vice President Geraldo Alckmin later on Monday to finalize a plan to soften the economic blow from the US tariffs, Haddad said. The measures, which focus on taxes, financing lines and government purchases, have to be flexible, he said. Haddad's main worry is protecting the Brazilian economy, and he added that exports intended for the US will require new destinations. --With assistance from Andre Loureiro Dias. (Adds additional context) More stories like this are available on
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Wedding bells for Prabhas? Aunt drops hint: 'With Lord Shiva's grace, it will happen soon'
Prabhas' marriage plans are once again a hot topic after his aunt, Shyamala Devi, shared that the family is hopeful and making efforts for him to get married soon with Lord Shiva's blessings. Meanwhile, Prabhas is gearing up for 'The Raja Saab,' his first full-fledged horror film, directed by Maruthi. Prabhas has long kept fans guessing about his marriage plans. While the Baahubali star has remained tight-lipped, a recent candid reveal by his aunt has reignited excitement and hope among his followers. According to a report published in News18, in a video that quickly went viral, Prabhas' aunt, Shyamala Devi, spoke to the media about his wedding plans. She said that when Lord Shiva's blessings come, Prabhas will get married. She added that the family is making efforts, and with Lord Shiva's grace, they hope the marriage will happen soon. Her honest remarks have sparked new excitement online, with fans eagerly waiting for official news from the actor. On the work front, the superstar is preparing for a fresh cinematic venture with The Raja Saab, his first full-fledged horror film. The motion poster released earlier this year teased an intriguing blend of supernatural thrills and classic charm. Directed by Maruthi, known for mixing humor with emotion, the movie promises an entertaining horror experience. The Raja Saab showcases impressive production quality, with cinematographer Karthik Palani and music composer Thaman S playing vital roles. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Massachusetts Residents With Credit Card Debt Could Be In For Loan-Free Relief Forbes Learn More Undo In an interesting twist, Thaman shared that rather than locking in the songs before filming, the team chose a unique method—allowing him to revisit and refine the music throughout the shoot. In a March interview, Thaman explained that he favors this flexible approach because Prabhas is returning to commercial songs after a long break. The film features a mix of tracks including an intro song, a melody, a high-energy dance number, and a love song that acts as the movie's theme. With audio rights valued at around Rs 30–40 crore, Thaman is focused on creating music that resonates with audiences across the country. The film features Malavika Mohanan , Nidhhi Agerwal , and Ridhi Kumar alongside Prabhas, promising a visually stunning and emotionally gripping horror entertainer.
Hindustan Times
2 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
India's geopolitical response to weaponisation of tariffs
Recent developments over the past few weeks are poised to fundamentally transform the Indian foreign policy narrative. In the same vein as Donald Trump's use of tariffs for his administration's foreign policy objectives, India has chosen foreign policy as a tool to respond to Trump's tariff tantrums. The recent thaw in India-China relations — the proposed visit of Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi to China for the SCO summit will be its highlight — the PM's telephone calls with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Brazilian President Lula da Silva, and Putin's upcoming visit to India, are all steps in this direction. Focus on the Indo-Pacific and Quad is being balanced with a proposal floated to revive the Russia-India-China (RIC) format meetings — though India is yet to make its stand on the same clear. Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi is also set to travel to India on August 18. The more Trump speaks against BRICS, the more significance the grouping gains. (DPR PMO/ANI Photo) This, however, does not mean that New Delhi underestimates the importance of its ties with the US or has lost hope of concluding a trade deal with Washington. Rather, it is a geopolitical response to the weaponisation of tariffs by the US. If the August 15 Trump-Putin meeting brings about a breakthrough on Ukraine, the American pressure on India over Russian oil may ease. This could also open the door to an India-US trade deal. The European Union was the latest bloc to strike a deal with Trump, agreeing to a 15% tariff. Earlier, the UK settled at 10%, Japan at 15%, Indonesia at 19%, Vietnam at 20%, and the Philippines at 19%. The trend suggests that most agreements fall within the 15–20% range. If things move positively, India could also get included in this category. However, many now realise that, in bilateral deals with the US, most countries end up losing. Although Beijing is also negotiating with Washington, the former has imposed its own retaliatory tariffs and export controls while continuing to buy large volumes of Russian oil. It is bargaining hard, thanks to its economic strength and clear geopolitical vision. Others lacked such clarity, or believed that by staying friendly with Washington they could secure a favourable deal. That hope has now proved illusory. This is why Brazil's Lula is calling for a joint BRICS response to Trump's tariffs instead of individual negotiations. India also faces a tough choice over opening its markets to US agricultural and other products. PM Modi has asserted that India will never compromise on the interests of its farmers. He knows there could be a serious domestic backlash if he is seen as weak in dealing with the US. Already, there is the shadow of Trump's claims that he brokered the easing of tensions between India and Pakistan. Even if India secures a trade deal with the US, the geopolitical currents have started shifting elsewhere. The trans-Atlantic partnership is already in disarray. The more Trump speaks against BRICS, the more significance the grouping gains. All this comes as India prepares to assume the BRICS presidency in a few months. It will also coincide with the US's G20 presidency, where Washington plans to focus on pure economic and finance rather than the broader developmental agenda advanced during the four developing-country presidencies. Against the backdrop of an aggressive China, India had strengthened its partnership with the US and advanced the Indo-Pacific narrative, aiming to build strong economic, technological, and military ties with Washington. The reliability of this approach is now being questioned. China, meanwhile, wants India integrated into its economic orbit. While India-China trade has grown significantly, investment and technology ties remain minimal. As two large, fast-growing neighbours, they could sustain each other's growth for decades. China also holds many of the technologies India needs for modernisation. However, scepticism runs deep in India, with many in New Delhi doubting that Beijing will ever share investment and technology. Building even a modest level of trust will be essential to unlocking these potential linkages between the two countries. What unfolds in the coming weeks could shape India's economy and foreign policy for decades. Gulshan Sachdeva is professor at the School of International Studies, JNU, and Chief Coordinator, Global South Centre of Excellence at RIS, New Delhi. The views expressed are personal.
