Since her discovery at a local runway event in 2005, Karlie Kloss has navigated a multifaceted career spanning high-fashion modeling, television hosting, and business ownership. By the time she enrolled at New York University in 2015, she had established a global presence in the industry, eventually transitioning into executive leadership and large-scale philanthropic initiatives.
Early Development and Breakthrough
Born on August 3, 1992, in Chicago, Illinois, Kloss relocated to St. Louis, Missouri, in 1994. After graduating from Webster Groves High School in 2011, she pursued further education at the Gallatin School of Individualized Study. Her professional trajectory began in 2006 when, at age 14, she appeared in Scene Magazine. Following her initial representation, she signed with Elite Model Management and subsequently Next Management, eventually transitioning to IMG Models.
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Kloss achieved significant industry visibility throughout the late 2000s and 2010s. By 2019, she had appeared on 40 international Vogue covers. Her modeling history includes work with brands such as Calvin Klein, Estée Lauder, Zac Posen, Marc Jacobs, and Victoria’s Secret, where she served as an Angel from 2013 to 2015. She walked 64 shows during the 2008 season and became a noted muse for designer John Galliano.
Media and Entrepreneurship
Beyond runway work, Kloss transitioned into television production and presenting. She co-hosted the MTV series House of Style and served as the host of the reality competition series Project Runway from 2019 to 2020.
Philanthropy and Advocacy
Kloss established the nonprofit organization Kode with Klossy, which facilitates free coding camps for girls and non-binary teens. Her advocacy work further includes support for reproductive rights and the launch of the Gateway Coalition in 2022 to assist abortion clinics across the Midwestern United States. She also promotes programs aimed at increasing female participation in STEM fields.
Fast facts
- Born: 3 August 1992, Chicago
- Education: Webster Groves High School, Gallatin School of Individualized Study
- Nonprofit organization: Kode with Klossy
- Project Runway tenure: 2019–2020
- Industry roles: Entrepreneur, model, television presenter
- Acquisition: i-D magazine
- Healthcare advocacy: Gateway Coalition
- Citizenship: United States
Questions readers ask
What is Kode with Klossy?
It is a nonprofit organization founded by Kloss that provides free coding camps to girls and non-binary teens.
Which modeling agencies has Kloss represented?
Throughout her career, she has been signed with agencies including Elite Model Management, Next Management, IMG Models, and The Society.
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