Bar Refaeli is more than just a supermodel—she’s a brand, a business mogul, and an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs. From her early days as a child model in Israel to gracing the covers of top fashion magazines and building a successful business empire, Refaeli’s journey is a testament to ambition, adaptability, and hard work. Let’s take a closer look at how she turned her modeling career into a platform for long-term success.

Early Life and Entrance into the Fashion World

Born on June 4, 1985, in Hod HaSharon, Israel, Bar Refaeli was seemingly destined for the world of fashion. Her mother, Tzipi Refaeli, was a successful model in the 1970s, making it no surprise that Bar found herself in front of cameras at a young age. By the time she was a baby, she was already appearing in commercials, and by 15, she had landed major modeling contracts.

Video

Michael Phelps & Bar Refaeli Get Wet: Behind Their Steamy Photoshoot | Sports Illustrated Swimsuit

Her early career in Israel set the stage for something much bigger. Refaeli’s striking looks and natural confidence soon caught the attention of international agencies. Within a few years, she was appearing in top fashion magazines, walking runways, and signing lucrative contracts with major brands.

Rise to International Supermodel Status

Bar Refaeli’s rise to global fame was swift and well-earned. She became a staple in the world of high fashion, featuring in magazines such as Elle, Marie Claire, GQ, and Vogue. However, her big break came in 2009 when she graced the cover of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. This moment catapulted her to superstardom, solidifying her as one of the most sought-after models in the industry.

Following this milestone, Refaeli worked with some of the biggest fashion brands, including:

• Chanel – Showcasing her ability to embody luxury and sophistication
• Ralph Lauren – Bringing classic elegance to modern fashion
• Victoria’s Secret – Demonstrating her versatility in both high fashion and commercial modeling

Her ability to seamlessly transition between editorial, runway, and commercial modeling set her apart from other models of her generation. She became the face of Passionata, Garnier, and Escada, further strengthening her influence in the fashion industry.

Venturing into Television and Acting

While modeling remained her primary focus, Refaeli expanded her career into television and acting. She hosted the Israeli version of The X Factor, proving that her on-screen presence wasn’t limited to still photography. Her charisma and natural ease in front of the camera made her a perfect fit for television hosting.

Video

Bar Refaeli Gets Wet In The Maldives | Sports Illustrated Swimsuit

Refaeli also dabbled in acting, landing roles in Israeli and international productions. While she never pursued a full-fledged Hollywood acting career, her foray into film and television showed her willingness to step outside of her comfort zone and explore new avenues.

Building a Business Empire

One of the most impressive aspects of Bar Refaeli’s career is how she leveraged her fame into business success. Unlike many models who fade from the industry after their runway days, Refaeli made smart moves to secure her future beyond modeling.

Some of her notable business ventures include:

• Under.me – A luxury underwear brand she co-founded, focusing on comfort and minimalism
• Tech Investments – Refaeli has invested in high-tech startups, particularly in Israel’s booming tech scene
• Fashion and Beauty Collaborations – She has partnered with brands to launch exclusive collections, tapping into her influence in the fashion industry

Her business acumen proves that she is not just a face for brands—she’s a decision-maker, an investor, and a brand builder.

Family Life and Philanthropy

In recent years, Refaeli has shifted her focus toward family life while maintaining her business empire. She married Israeli businessman Adi Ezra in 2015, and the couple now shares three children. Despite stepping away from full-time modeling, she remains active in the fashion world, making selective appearances for campaigns and exclusive events.

Beyond her career, Refaeli is also passionate about giving back. She has supported numerous charitable organizations focusing on:

• Children’s Health – Funding medical treatments and hospitals for children in need
• Animal Welfare – Advocating for better treatment of animals and supporting rescue initiatives
• Environmental Conservation – Promoting sustainable fashion and eco-friendly initiatives in the industry

Her dedication to philanthropy showcases another side of her—one that goes beyond glamour and business to make a real impact on the world.

A Lasting Legacy in Fashion and Business

Bar Refaeli’s career has spanned over two decades, proving that she is much more than just a pretty face. She has continuously reinvented herself, from dominating the runways to building a powerful business empire. While some models struggle to transition beyond their peak years, Refaeli has embraced change, using her influence to create opportunities beyond fashion.

Her journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring models and entrepreneurs alike. She has shown that beauty and brains can go hand in hand and that success is not just about what you achieve in front of the camera, but also what you build behind the scenes.

As she continues to evolve, one thing remains clear—Bar Refaeli is not just a supermodel; she is a powerhouse who has left an indelible mark on both the fashion and business worlds.