Karlie Kloss is an American supermodel, entrepreneur, and philanthropist who has built a successful career both on and off the runway. Known for working with the world’s leading fashion houses, she has also earned recognition for promoting technology education through her nonprofit organization, Kode With Klossy. Over the years, Kloss has expanded her influence from fashion into business, media, and charitable initiatives, making her one of the industry’s most recognizable public figures.
Early Life and Family
Karlie Elizabeth Kloss was born on August 3, 1992, in Chicago, Illinois, to Tracy Kloss, a freelance art director, and Kurt Kloss, an emergency physician. She has three sisters, including twin younger sisters. When she was young, her family moved to St. Louis, Missouri, where she spent most of her childhood.
Before entering the fashion industry, Kloss trained in classical ballet. She has often credited ballet with helping her develop discipline, confidence, and graceful movement, skills that later became valuable in her modeling career. She attended Webster Groves High School and graduated in 2011 before later enrolling at New York University in September 2015.
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How Karlie Kloss Started Modeling
Karlie Kloss’s modeling journey began after she was discovered at a local charity runway event in 2005. Shortly afterward, she signed with Elite Model Management and quickly attracted attention within the fashion industry.
In 2006, she appeared in her first editorial for Scene Magazine. Her rapid rise continued as she walked major runways and collaborated with internationally known fashion brands. By January 2008, she had signed with Next Management and became one of the busiest young models during Fashion Week, walking dozens of runway shows in New York, Milan, and Paris.
Rise to International Fame
Throughout her career, Kloss has worked with many of the world’s most respected fashion designers and luxury brands. She has appeared on numerous international editions of Vogue and participated in campaigns for companies such as Dior, Versace, Gucci, Valentino, Carolina Herrera, Oscar de la Renta, Donna Karan, and many others.
In September 2014, L’Oréal Paris announced Kloss as one of its global ambassadors, further strengthening her international profile. By 2019, she had appeared on approximately 40 international Vogue covers, reflecting her lasting influence in the fashion world.
Victoria’s Secret Career
Karlie Kloss became widely recognized through her work with Victoria’s Secret. She first walked in the brand’s famous fashion show in 2011 and officially became a Victoria’s Secret Angel in 2013.
In 2015, Kloss chose to step away from her Angel contract to focus on her education and other personal goals. She later explained that she wanted more control over her career and wished to pursue opportunities outside traditional modeling.
Kode With Klossy
One of Karlie Kloss’s most significant achievements outside modeling is Kode With Klossy, a nonprofit organization she founded to encourage girls and young women to explore computer science.
The program offers coding camps and educational opportunities designed to help participants develop technical and leadership skills. Since its launch, thousands of students have participated in its programs, making it one of Kloss’s most recognized philanthropic initiatives.
She has frequently spoken about the importance of increasing opportunities for women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Television and Business Ventures
Karlie Kloss has expanded her career beyond modeling through television and entrepreneurship.
In 2019, she became the host of Project Runway, one of the fashion industry’s best-known reality television competitions. She has also invested in technology companies and business ventures while supporting initiatives focused on innovation and entrepreneurship.
In 2023, she acquired i-D Magazine and became its chief executive officer, marking another important milestone in her business career.
Marriage and Children
Karlie Kloss began dating businessman and investor Joshua Kushner in 2012.
The couple became engaged in July 2018. Shortly before their engagement, Kloss converted to Judaism. They married on October 18, 2018, in New York and later celebrated with a second wedding event in Wyoming in June 2019.
The couple welcomed their first son in March 2021, their second son in July 2023, and their daughter, Rae Florence, on September 18, 2025. Despite their public profiles, Kloss and Kushner generally keep their family life private while occasionally sharing special moments publicly.
Advocacy and Philanthropy
In addition to supporting coding education, Karlie Kloss has participated in numerous charitable and educational initiatives throughout her career.
She has publicly supported women’s education, reproductive rights, and STEM opportunities. In 2022, she launched the Gateway Coalition, an organization created to support abortion clinics in parts of the Midwestern United States.
Her philanthropic work reflects her broader interest in using her platform to promote education, opportunity, and community support.
Lasting Impact in Fashion
Karlie Kloss has remained one of the fashion industry’s most influential figures for nearly two decades. Her runway appearances, magazine covers, advertising campaigns, and entrepreneurial projects have allowed her to maintain a prominent role while expanding into education, technology, and media.
Unlike many models whose careers remain limited to fashion, Kloss has built a diverse professional portfolio that includes television hosting, nonprofit leadership, business investments, and publishing. Her ability to balance these different roles has contributed to her long-lasting success.
Conclusion
Karlie Kloss has achieved international recognition as both a supermodel and an entrepreneur. From being discovered at a local charity fashion show in 2005 to becoming one of fashion’s biggest names, she has consistently expanded her career into new areas. Her work through Kode With Klossy, business ventures, and charitable efforts demonstrates a commitment to creating opportunities beyond the runway. Today, she continues to influence fashion, technology, education, and philanthropy while maintaining an active presence in the public eye.
FAQs
1. Who is Karlie Kloss?
Karlie Kloss is an American supermodel, entrepreneur, television host, and founder of the nonprofit organization Kode With Klossy.
2. When was Karlie Kloss born?
She was born on August 3, 1992, in Chicago, Illinois.
3. Who is Karlie Kloss married to?
She is married to businessman and investor Joshua Kushner. They married on October 18, 2018.
4. What is Kode With Klossy?
Kode With Klossy is a nonprofit organization founded by Karlie Kloss that provides coding education and technology opportunities for girls and young women.
5. Why is Karlie Kloss famous?
She is famous for her successful modeling career, her work as a Victoria’s Secret Angel, her appearances on international Vogue covers, her business ventures, and her commitment to technology education through Kode With Klossy.
