Joan Smalls

Joan Smalls began her modeling career in 2007 when she moved to New York City after graduating from the Interamerican University of Puerto Rico, where she earned a degree in psychology.

Her big break came when she signed with IMG Models and was selected to walk for Givenchy’s haute couture show, which propelled her to international fame. After landing this big gig, she continued to walk for other iconic fashion houses like Gucci, Prada, Versace and Louis Vuitton.

In 2011, Smalls became the first Latina ambassador for Estée Lauder, contributing to her advocacy for more diversity in the modeling industry. She has also appeared on numerous magazine covers, including Vogue, Elle and Harper’s Bazaar and has consistently been listed among Forbes’ highest-paid models.

Smalls was linked to founder of Modellounge, Bernard Smith, through much of the 2010s, but they seemingly split by 2020. The model was seen kissing Henry Junior Chalhoub in 2020 and 2021, but Smalls generally doesn’t comment on her relationship status.