Bella Hadid
Bella Hadid, born October 9, 1996, is an American supermodel whose influence spans fashion, business, and activism. Explore her journey, challenges, philosophies, and inspiring quotes.
Introduction
Bella Hadid (full name Isabella Khair Hadid) is an American model, entrepreneur, and public figure who has become one of the most recognized faces in contemporary fashion.
She is known not only for her runway presence and campaigns but also for using her platform to speak about identity, health, and social justice. Her path is a blend of glamour, vulnerability, and activism.
Early Life and Family
Bella Hadid was born on October 9, 1996, in Washington, D.C. Mohamed Hadid, is a Palestinian-American real estate developer; her mother, Yolanda Hadid (née van den Herik), is a Dutch former model.
Bella has an older sister, Gigi Hadid, and a younger brother, Anwar Hadid, both of whom have also pursued careers in modeling.
She grew up on a ranch in Santa Barbara, California, and later the family moved to Beverly Hills when Bella was about ten years old.
From a young age, Bella rode horses—her mother’s love for equestrianism influenced her. In her youth she hoped to compete, even perhaps in the Olympics, until health issues intervened.
Career and Milestones
Modeling Beginnings & Rise
Bella’s modeling career began when she was around 16 years old, beginning with a commercial project for Flynn Skye.
In August 2014, she signed with IMG Models, which marked a turning point. New York Fashion Week debut shortly afterward.
Over the years, she walked for major fashion houses such as Chanel, Versace, Givenchy, Dior, and many others.
In 2016, Bella became an ambassador for Dior Makeup and featured in their campaigns and online content.
She has appeared on dozens of international Vogue covers—reportedly 35 such covers by 2025. Model of the Year by the British Fashion Council.
Business & Other Ventures
Beyond modeling, Bella has branched into entrepreneurship and public ventures:
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She co-founded Kin Euphorics, a nonalcoholic, adaptogenic beverage brand.
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In 2024, she launched Orebella, a beauty company focused on fragrances.
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She also has appeared in acting roles, e.g., a guest role in the third season of Ramy.
Challenges, Identity & Health
Lyme Disease & Health Struggles
Bella has openly shared her ongoing battle with Lyme disease, which she and her family were diagnosed with (her mother and brother also affected).
The disease has influenced her choices in modeling, her energy levels, and her health priorities.
Public and Social Identity
Bella is outspoken about her Palestinian heritage. For instance, she has asked, “Are we not allowed to be Palestinian on Instagram?” in reference to social media moderation and identity politics.
She has also faced controversy over advertisements (e.g. an Adidas campaign in 2024 linked to the 1972 Munich Olympics) related to her Palestinian identity, and she issued apologies and explanations in response.
She has used her platform to donate to relief efforts and to speak out on geopolitical issues.
Style, Influence & Legacy
Bella Hadid is often described as a “muse” in the fashion industry—her presence can raise the profile and commercial success of brands (often called the “Bella Effect”).
Her style is versatile: she can shift from high couture to streetwear to edgy, conceptual fashion—she blends classic and modern aesthetics.
Her influence extends beyond modeling: she stands at the intersection of fashion, business, and activism. Her openness about health and identity adds depth to her public persona.
Famous Quotes by Bella Hadid
Here are several quotes attributed to Bella Hadid that reflect her mindset, values, and struggles:
“In my head, I’ve always been a supermodel. It’s just taking everyone a little bit longer to catch on.” “I just aspire to be the best I can be. I want to work hard and set one goal at a time for myself.” “I’m not trying to be this cool girl. If you’re trying to be something you’re not, it’s slowly going to bite you in the butt.” “If I don’t book a job, I like to see it not as a rejection but as a redirection to something different.” “I don’t walk down the street like, ‘I’m famous.’ It’s still weird to me when people ask for pictures.” “My close friends from high school keep me grounded—they don’t care about what I do.” “I grew up in Malibu, so it’s nice to be back home and be with my parents … just chill out for a little bit.”
These statements show a mix of ambition, humility, and a desire for authenticity.
Lessons & Insights
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Authenticity matters
Bella’s quotes and public posture suggest she values being genuine—even in a world of image and expectations. -
Resilience in adversity
Her health challenges, identity controversies, and career highs and lows show that vulnerability can coexist with strength. -
Reframe setbacks
Her approach to jobs she doesn’t book—as “redirection” rather than rejection—is a useful mindset for creative and competitive fields. -
Know your roots
She emphasizes grounding influences (family, childhood friends, heritage) as anchors amid fame. -
Use your voice
Whether in fashion or politics, Bella demonstrates that public figures can engage meaningfully beyond surface image.
Conclusion
Bella Hadid’s journey is more than a story of width and glamour—it’s a narrative of complexity, struggle, and voice. Starting as a teenage model, she rose to become a global fashion icon. But she doesn’t just walk runways—she walks her own path, navigating health, identity, and business with determination.
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