Eva Herzigová’s remarkable journey began in the modest town of Litvínov, Czechoslovakia, where she was born on March 10, 1973. Raised in a working-class family, her father worked as an electrician, while her mother was an accountant. This grounded upbringing gave Eva a humble perspective, a stark contrast to the glamorous world she would later dominate. Despite growing up in an industrial town, Eva had an eye for beauty and creativity—qualities that set her apart from her surroundings.
At just 16, her life took a pivotal turn when she entered a modeling contest in Prague. Winning the competition propelled her into the spotlight, marking the beginning of an extraordinary career that would make her one of the most celebrated supermodels of her time. That single moment set her on a path that would take her from provincial life to the global fashion stage.
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EVA HERZIGOVA Yesterday / Today – Fashion Channel
The Move to Paris and a Meteoric Rise
By the age of 19, Eva made the bold decision to move to Paris, a city synonymous with high fashion. It was here that her modeling career took off. In 1992, she landed a breakthrough campaign with Guess, shot by renowned photographer Ellen Von Unwerth. The campaign featured Eva in a series of striking, playful images that captivated audiences and established her as a rising star.
However, it was in 1994 that Eva cemented her place in pop culture history. She became the face of the Wonderbra campaign, appearing in the now-iconic advertisement with the tagline “Hello, boys!” The image of her sultry gaze and stunning silhouette became an instant sensation. The campaign didn’t just sell lingerie—it turned Eva into a household name and even caused reported traffic accidents as drivers became too distracted by the billboard’s allure.
Her success skyrocketed, leading to collaborations with some of the biggest names in fashion. From Louis Vuitton to Versace and Zadig & Voltaire, Eva’s versatility and magnetic presence made her one of the most sought-after models in the industry. She brought a unique blend of elegance and boldness, setting herself apart from the competition.
Dominating the Supermodel Era
The mid-1990s saw Eva reach the pinnacle of the modeling world, standing alongside legendary figures like Claudia Schiffer and Naomi Campbell. She graced over 30 Vogue covers, appearing in editions across France, Italy, the UK, and beyond. Her striking presence on the runway for elite fashion houses like Chanel, Dior, and Givenchy further solidified her status as a top-tier supermodel.
But Eva wasn’t just about commercial success—she found deep personal fulfillment in her work. She once described her campaign for Zadig & Voltaire as one of her most creatively satisfying projects, proving that modeling could be more than just looking beautiful; it was an art form she mastered. By 1996, her earnings reflected her dominance, as Forbes listed her among the highest-paid models in the world.
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EVA HERZIGOVA History 1993|2004 – Fashion Channel
A New Chapter: From Fashion Icon to Devoted Mother
While Eva Herzigová’s career continued to thrive, her personal life took center stage in the 2000s. In 2006, she married Italian businessman Gregorio Marsiaj, and together, they built a beautiful family. The couple welcomed three sons—George (born 2007), Philipe (born 2011), and Edward (born 2013). Despite her glamorous past, Eva embraced motherhood with the same dedication and passion she had for modeling.
In 2020, as the world slowed down during the pandemic, Eva made a life-changing decision. She moved her family from London to the serene Italian countryside, choosing a quieter, more nurturing environment for her children. The move reflected her commitment to a more grounded lifestyle, away from the pressures of the fashion industry. During the pandemic, she took on homeschooling duties, guiding her sons through their studies while also tending to a flourishing home garden—an experience that deepened her appreciation for simplicity and nature.
Embracing a Sustainable and Balanced Lifestyle
Eva’s transition from supermodel to devoted mother also sparked a shift in her values. The pandemic made her reevaluate her priorities, leading her to minimize screen time and embrace the outdoors with her family. Gardening became her sanctuary, and she often shared her love for nature with her sons, spending hours exploring the scenic Italian landscape.
Her newfound passion for sustainability extended beyond her home life. Eva became a vocal advocate for eco-conscious living, using her influence to promote sustainable fashion. While she remains selective about her modeling projects, she prioritizes campaigns that align with her environmental values. This seamless blend of past expertise and present convictions has allowed her to stay relevant in an industry that is constantly evolving. Even at 50, her timeless beauty and elegance continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
The Legacy of Eva Herzigová: Reinvention and Grace
Eva Herzigová’s story is one of reinvention, resilience, and adaptability. From a small-town girl in Czechoslovakia to an international supermodel, and now a passionate advocate for family and sustainability, her journey is a testament to the power of transformation. Her decision to leave the high-paced fashion world for a more fulfilling, nature-focused life speaks volumes about her priorities.
Through it all, Eva remains a source of inspiration, proving that true beauty comes from balance, purpose, and embracing change. Her legacy extends far beyond the runways—she is a woman who has mastered the art of evolving gracefully, living proof that success is not just about fame and fortune but also about finding joy in the simplest moments of life.
