Xolile Mtembu|Published
South African supermodel Candice Swanepoel returned to the Victoria's Secret runway this weekend. The 37-year-old model walked in the brand's fashion show in California on 18 October 2026. It was her 14th appearance at the celebrated event.
From being discovered at a flea market in Durban to becoming one of the world's most recognisable models, Swanepoel has built an extraordinary career. She has worked with leading fashion houses, fronted major campaigns and launched her own swimwear brand.
As she celebrates her 38th birthday today, here is everything you need to know about her life and career.
Who is Candice Swanepoel?
She was born on October 20, 1988, in Mooi River, KwaZulu-Natal.
She grew up on a dairy and beef farm. Her childhood was far removed from the glamorous fashion capitals she would later call her workplace.
Swanepoel attended St Anne's College, an all-girls boarding school. Her life changed when she was still a teenager.
How was she discovered?
Swanepoel was discovered at a flea market in Durban in 2003. She was just 15 when a modelling scout spotted her.
The encounter opened the door to an international career. Within a year, she was working in Europe and travelling between major fashion capitals.
At 17, she moved to New York to pursue modelling full-time. It was a major decision for someone so young. However, the move helped establish her in the competitive international fashion industry.
She soon began securing work with prominent designers, photographers and fashion publications.
How did she become a Victoria's Secret Angel?
Swanepoel made her Victoria's Secret Fashion Show debut in 2007.
In 2010, she officially became a Victoria's Secret Angel. The title placed her among the lingerie brand's leading models.
Angels were more than runway stars. They also featured in advertising campaigns, catalogues and promotional events.
Swanepoel's association with the brand became one of the defining parts of her career.
In 2013, she wore the Royal Fantasy Bra, valued at $10 million. The elaborate design featured precious stones and a prominent ruby.
It was a major milestone for the South African model. Victoria's Secret later retired its traditional Angels identity in 2021 as the company reworked its public image.
How many times has she walked for Victoria's Secret?
Swanepoel has walked in the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show 14 times.
Her return highlights the longevity of her career. The fashion industry is known for its rapid turnover of models, but Swanepoel has remained a familiar face on the international runway.
She has also shared the Victoria's Secret stage with some of the industry's biggest names, including Adriana Lima and Alessandra Ambrosio.
Although Victoria's Secret helped make her famous, Swanepoel's career extends beyond lingerie modelling.
She has worked with major fashion houses and appeared in international editions of leading fashion magazines, including Vogue.
She has also collaborated with influential photographers such as Mario Testino, Bruce Weber and Steven Meisel.
Her work spans commercial campaigns, editorial photography and high-fashion modelling.
These opportunities have helped her establish herself as a versatile model with an international following.
Her business ventures
In 2018, Swanepoel launched Tropic of C, a swimwear and lifestyle brand.
The label reflects her love of nature, the beach and understated design. It focuses on swimwear and resortwear.
The venture also gave her an opportunity to move beyond modelling products created by other people. She could contribute to the creative direction of her own brand.
Her business interests have added another dimension to her career.
Swanepoel is a mother of two sons, Anaca and Ariel. She shares the children with her former partner, Brazilian model Hermann Nicoli.
She has spoken about balancing motherhood with her demanding career.
Despite working around the world, she has maintained a connection to her South African roots and her love of nature.
She also keeps much of her personal life away from the spotlight.
IOL