27 Fun Facts About Winnie Harlow – The Supermodel Who Redefined Beauty

Who Is Winnie Harlow? 27 Surprising Facts About the Game-Changing Supermodel

Winnie Harlow isn’t just a supermodel—she’s a cultural icon, a game-changer in the fashion world, and a fierce advocate for self-love. From breaking barriers in the modeling industry to launching her own beauty brand, she’s proving that representation isn’t just important—it’s essential.

You might know her from America’s Next Top Model or strutting on the Victoria’s Secret runway, but there’s so much more to Winnie than meets the eye. Here are 27 fun facts about the queen herself.

1. Her real name isn't Winnie Harlow

Winnie Harlow’s birth name is Chantelle Whitney Brown-Young. She chose the name "Winnie Harlow" as a tribute to Winnie the Pooh, one of her childhood favorites, and Jean Harlow, the iconic 1930s Hollywood actress. The name change wasn’t just about branding—it was about stepping into a new version of herself, one that could take on the world of fashion with confidence. Many models and celebrities opt for stage names, but Winnie’s stands out because it blends childhood nostalgia with old Hollywood glamour. Today, the name Winnie Harlow is recognized globally as a symbol of breaking beauty standards and embracing individuality. Despite the name change, she remains deeply connected to her roots, often reminding fans that self-love isn’t about altering who you are—it’s about embracing every part of yourself, inside and out.

2. She was diagnosed with vitiligo at age 4

At just four years old, Winnie was diagnosed with vitiligo, a skin condition that causes patches of skin to lose pigmentation due to the immune system attacking melanin-producing cells. While some may see it as a challenge, Winnie turned it into her superpower. Growing up, her skin made her stand out, and not always in a positive way. She faced bullying and was often misunderstood, but her confidence grew as she learned to embrace her unique beauty. Vitiligo affects people of all ethnicities, and Winnie has used her platform to raise awareness, showing that beauty is diverse and doesn't fit into a single mold. Today, she stands as one of the most famous faces in the world, proving that what makes you different is what makes you unstoppable. Her success is a powerful reminder that representation in media and fashion matters more than ever.

3. Bullies almost made her quit school

Winnie’s childhood wasn’t easy—she endured relentless bullying from classmates who called her cruel names like "cow" and "zebra" because of her skin. The bullying got so intense that she had to switch schools multiple times, struggling to find a place where she felt accepted. At one point, she even considered dropping out of school entirely. But instead of letting the negativity define her, she channeled it into motivation. She began sharing her story online, connecting with others who had faced similar struggles. Social media became her safe space, a place where she could express herself without fear of judgment. Looking back, she credits these difficult moments for shaping her into the strong, fearless woman she is today. Her journey is proof that no matter how hard things get, self-love and perseverance will always win in the end.

4. Tyra Banks discovered her on Instagram

In a world where models are usually scouted in shopping malls or at fashion events, Winnie’s story is totally unique. She was discovered by Tyra Banks—yes, THE Tyra Banks—through Instagram. Tyra was scrolling through social media when she came across Winnie’s photos, immediately recognizing her potential. She was so impressed that she slid into Winnie’s DMs and personally invited her to compete in America’s Next Top Model in 2014. At the time, Winnie had never considered modeling as a serious career, but Tyra saw something in her that even she hadn’t yet realized. This moment completely changed the trajectory of her life, catapulting her into the global fashion industry. It also marked a turning point in how social media has become a game-changer for discovering new talent. Winnie’s story is proof that sometimes, the right person just has to see you in the right moment—and Instagram made that happen for her.

5. She didn't actually win ANTM

Although Winnie became one of the most famous models to come from America’s Next Top Model, she actually didn’t win the competition. She was eliminated in episode 13, but that didn’t stop her from making an impact. In fact, being eliminated turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Instead of letting it discourage her, she used it as fuel to work even harder. While many ANTM winners fade into the background after their season ends, Winnie became bigger than the show itself. She went on to land major fashion campaigns, walk international runways, and work with some of the biggest brands in the world. Her success proves that you don’t need a title or a trophy to be a winner. Sometimes, the best thing you can do is create your own path—and Winnie did just that.

6. She made history at Victoria’s Secret

In 2018, Winnie Harlow became the first model with vitiligo to walk in the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, a milestone moment in fashion history. The Victoria’s Secret runway has long been considered one of the most exclusive and prestigious platforms for models, and Winnie shattered stereotypes by proving that beauty comes in all forms. This wasn’t just a big moment for her career—it was a win for representation in the fashion industry. Seeing Winnie walk alongside some of the biggest supermodels in the world sent a powerful message: diversity and inclusivity aren’t trends—they’re the future of fashion. Her confidence and grace on the runway solidified her place as a true trailblazer, paving the way for more unconventional beauty to be celebrated. Today, she continues to advocate for inclusivity, ensuring that future generations of models won’t have to fight as hard to be seen and appreciated.

7. Drake put her in a music video

Winnie’s connection to music runs deep, especially with fellow Canadian icon Drake. She starred in his music video for "Know Yourself", which became a viral hit. This wasn’t just a random cameo—Drake has always been a supporter of Winnie’s career and has publicly praised her multiple times. Their collaboration helped introduce Winnie to an even wider audience, further cementing her status as a pop culture icon. It also showed the world that she wasn’t just a fashion model—she was a multi-talented star with crossover appeal in music, entertainment, and beyond. Whether she’s on the runway, in music videos, or representing major brands, Winnie knows how to own the spotlight in every industry she steps into.

8. She's Canadian, eh?

Winnie Harlow was born in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada, on July 27, 1994. While she’s now a global star, she’s proudly Canadian and reps her home country every chance she gets. She grew up just outside of Toronto, a city known for producing megastars like Drake, The Weeknd, and Justin Bieber. Her Canadian roots are a huge part of her identity, and she’s often spotted courtside at Toronto Raptors games, cheering on her hometown NBA team. She’s also spoken about how growing up in Canada shaped her open-minded, multicultural perspective. Toronto is one of the most diverse cities in the world, and Winnie’s rise to fame is another example of how Canada has become a hub for international talent. Even though she spends most of her time in LA or jet-setting around the world, she never forgets where she came from.

9. She's besties with Bella Hadid

In the cutthroat world of fashion, true friendships are rare, but Winnie Harlow and Bella Hadid have built a solid bond. The two first met on the fashion circuit and instantly clicked. Since then, they’ve been spotted vacationing together, partying at exclusive events, and showing each other love on social media. Unlike the typical model friendships that seem more for PR than anything else, Winnie and Bella’s connection feels genuine. They’ve been through the ups and downs of the industry together, and their support for each other is undeniable. Winnie has even posted birthday tributes to Bella, calling her one of the kindest souls she’s ever met. In a business that can often be superficial, it’s refreshing to see two powerhouse models lifting each other up instead of competing. If there’s one thing Winnie knows how to do, it’s surround herself with strong, supportive women who match her energy.

11. She once turned down Beyoncé (kind of)

Most people would drop everything for a chance to work with Beyoncé, but Winnie Harlow actually had to turn down a project with Queen Bey—well, sort of. When Beyoncé’s team reached out to cast her for a project, Winnie was already booked for another campaign. Instead of canceling her commitment, she stuck to her schedule, proving just how professional she is. While she didn’t get to work with Beyoncé that time, she eventually made her way into Beyoncé’s visual album Lemonade, so it all worked out in the end. The fact that Winnie was too busy to work with Beyoncé at first just goes to show how in-demand she is. It’s not every day that someone has to tell the biggest superstar on the planet that they’re unavailable. That’s the level of booked and busy we should all aspire to.

12. Rihanna handpicked her for Fenty Beauty

When Rihanna launched Fenty Beauty, she made sure to cast models who represented true diversity—and Winnie Harlow was at the top of her list. Rihanna personally chose Winnie to be one of the original faces of Fenty Beauty, a brand that completely revolutionized the makeup industry. Fenty Beauty’s mission is all about inclusivity, which made Winnie the perfect fit. Her unique look, confidence, and unapologetic self-love aligned perfectly with Rihanna’s vision. Being part of Fenty Beauty wasn’t just another campaign for Winnie—it was a movement. Rihanna herself has praised Winnie multiple times, calling her an inspiration and one of the most beautiful women she’s ever seen. When a legend like Rihanna gives you that kind of co-sign, you know you’ve made it. Winnie’s involvement with Fenty helped set a new standard for beauty, proving that representation isn’t just important—it’s necessary.

13. She's obsessed with fast cars

When she’s not on the runway or launching new business ventures, Winnie Harlow is out here living her best life in luxury cars. She’s a huge fan of exotic cars, and if you scroll through her Instagram, you’ll see her flexing in some of the sleekest rides out there. From Ferraris to Lamborghinis, Winnie’s car collection is the definition of goals. She’s admitted in interviews that she loves the adrenaline rush of driving high-performance vehicles, and she’s even attended Formula 1 races as a VIP guest. She’s proof that models don’t just love fashion—they can be gearheads too. Owning luxury cars isn’t just about showing off wealth for Winnie—it’s about celebrating her hard-earned success. After years of struggling and being underestimated, she’s at a place where she can treat herself to the finer things in life, and honestly? She deserves it.

14. She's in a High-Profile Relationship with NBA Star Kyle Kuzma

Winnie Harlow’s love life has always been a topic of interest, and her relationship with NBA player Kyle Kuzma is proof that power couples are still alive and thriving. The two first started dating in 2020, back when Kuzma was playing for the Los Angeles Lakers. Though they briefly split in 2021, love clearly wasn’t finished with them—they rekindled their romance in early 2022 and have been going strong ever since.

Unlike some celebrity couples who keep things low-key, Winnie and Kyle aren’t afraid to show their love. From courtside date nights to luxury vacations, they regularly share adorable moments on social media. Winnie has also been Kyle’s biggest fan, supporting him as he transitioned to playing for the Washington Wizards and now the Detroit Pistons.

Their relationship isn’t just about public appearances—it’s clear they genuinely lift each other up. Winnie has called Kyle her best friend and biggest supporter, while Kyle never shies away from hyping her up in interviews and Instagram posts. Whether it’s Valentine’s Day surprises or just everyday love, these two are couple goals.

Fans are here for their love story, and if their chemistry is any indication, they might just be in it for the long haul.

15. She's got Jamaican roots

Winnie may have been born in Canada, but her heart beats for Jamaica. Both of her parents are Jamaican, and she’s incredibly proud of her Caribbean heritage. She often visits Jamaica, soaking up the culture, food, and music. If you’ve ever seen Winnie dancing to dancehall music, you already know she’s got serious Caribbean energy. She’s spoken about how her Jamaican background influences her confidence, her bold personality, and even her sense of style. Growing up with strong Jamaican parents taught her resilience, self-love, and the importance of staying true to herself. She’s also a big supporter of Jamaican designers and creatives, making sure to uplift her roots whenever she can. Whether she’s on the runway or on vacation in Montego Bay, she carries her Jamaican heritage with pride.

16. She walked for Marc Jacobs in her first major fashion show

Every supermodel has a breakthrough moment, and for Winnie Harlow, that moment came in 2015 when she walked in the Marc Jacobs Fall/Winter show. This was her first major runway gig, and it put her on the radar of top designers worldwide. Before that, Winnie was mostly known from America’s Next Top Model, but stepping onto the Marc Jacobs runway legitimized her as a serious high-fashion model.

Walking for Marc Jacobs is a big deal—his shows are known for being edgy, artistic, and full of top-tier talent. Winnie’s unique look and undeniable presence made her an instant standout, and it wasn’t long before other designers took notice. That one show opened doors for her to work with Tommy Hilfiger, Fendi, Moschino, and even Victoria’s Secret. It proved that she wasn’t just a reality TV star—she was a model who was here to stay.

17. She's been on more Vogue covers than you can count

For any model, landing a Vogue cover is a career-defining moment. Winnie Harlow? She’s graced the cover of multiple editions, including Vogue Italia, Vogue Arabia, Vogue Spain, Vogue Brazil, and Vogue UK. Each cover she lands is a step forward for diversity in fashion, proving that beauty comes in all forms.

Winnie’s Vogue covers aren’t just about stunning visuals—they’re about breaking barriers. She’s the first model with vitiligo to land some of these covers, making history each time. Her ability to own every photoshoot and adapt to different fashion aesthetics has made her a favorite among top photographers and editors.

Being a Vogue cover star is reserved for the best of the best, and Winnie has more than earned her spot in the industry. She’s gone from being doubted to becoming one of the most recognizable faces in fashion, and she’s still just getting started.

18. She made Sports Illustrated history

In 2019, Winnie Harlow became the first model with vitiligo to pose for Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition. This was a major moment, because SI Swimsuit has long been known for showcasing the most iconic models in the world. From Tyra Banks to Gigi Hadid, only the top-tier names make it into the magazine—and Winnie secured her place among them.

Her SI photoshoot was all about confidence, empowerment, and showing that beauty standards are evolving. Winnie has always embraced her skin, but this moment proved that the world was finally embracing it too. She looked absolutely stunning in a variety of swimwear, proving that you don’t need to fit into a traditional mold to be celebrated.

Landing Sports Illustrated was also a huge deal for diversity in modeling, showing that women of all backgrounds deserve representation. Winnie continues to break down barriers, making sure that every young girl sees themselves reflected in the media.

19. She’s walked in New York, Paris, and Milan Fashion Weeks

Winnie isn’t just a model—she’s a fashion week staple. She’s walked in some of the most prestigious runway shows in the world, including New York Fashion Week, Paris Fashion Week, and Milan Fashion Week. These aren’t just any fashion events—these are the shows where only the best of the best get invited to walk.

Some of the biggest brands she’s worked with include:
✔️ Off-White
✔️ Dior
✔️ Moschino
✔️ Tommy Hilfiger
✔️ Valentino

Walking in these shows requires skill, confidence, and a strong presence, and Winnie has all of that and more. Designers love her for her bold energy and ability to bring something fresh to the runway. She’s proven time and time again that she’s not just a pretty face—she’s a model who can own any runway, anywhere in the world.

20. She's got a signature catwalk move

If you’ve ever watched Winnie Harlow on the runway, you’ve probably noticed she has a signature move—a confident hand flip at the end of the runway. It’s subtle, but it adds a touch of personality and flair to her walk, making her stand out in an industry where every little detail matters.

Fashion is all about storytelling, and Winnie uses her body language to create a memorable presence on the runway. Her walk is strong, fluid, and full of energy, and the little hand flip is like the exclamation point at the end of a fierce sentence.

Not all models develop signature moves, but the ones who do—like Naomi Campbell’s famous strut or Tyra Banks’ smize—become icons. Winnie’s walk has now become one of the most recognizable in the industry, proving that she’s in the same league as the modeling greats.

21. She used to work at a call center

Before Winnie was walking for major designers and covering Vogue, she had a regular 9-to-5 job—working at a call center. Like many young people trying to make ends meet, she took a job in customer service before her modeling career took off.

Working at a call center might seem like a far cry from the glamorous world of high fashion, but Winnie has said that the experience taught her a lot about patience, professionalism, and dealing with different personalities. Even back then, she was already dreaming big, knowing she was destined for more.

Her story is proof that everyone starts somewhere. Whether you’re answering phones or working retail, it doesn’t define your future. Winnie’s journey from a call center to the biggest runways in the world is proof that with hard work, anything is possible.

22. She's got a thing for acting

Winnie Harlow has already conquered the modeling world, but she’s got her sights set on Hollywood next. She’s expressed interest in acting and has hinted in interviews that she’d love to star in movies and TV shows. Given her ability to command attention on the runway and in photoshoots, it wouldn’t be a surprise if she’s a natural on-screen as well.

She’s already dipped her toes into entertainment by starring in music videos, including Beyoncé’s Lemonade and Drake’s Know Yourself. But acting would take things to a whole new level. With her stunning looks, confidence, and charisma, she could easily become the next big model-turned-actress, following in the footsteps of Cara Delevingne and Tyra Banks.

Winnie has already defied expectations in the fashion industry, so who’s to say she won’t do the same in Hollywood? If she sets her mind to it, there’s no doubt she could be just as successful on the big screen.

23. She's super into skincare

With her flawless skin and glowing confidence, it’s no surprise that Winnie Harlow is obsessed with skincare. She has always been vocal about the importance of taking care of your skin, especially for people with vitiligo. Growing up, she struggled to find products that worked for her, which is what led her to create CAY SKIN, her very own skincare brand.

CAY SKIN was launched in 2022 and focuses on sunscreen and skincare products for all skin tones. Winnie wanted to create something that worked for melanin-rich skin and people with skin conditions like vitiligo, since many sunscreens leave a white cast that makes darker skin look ashy. The brand has been a huge success, proving that Winnie isn’t just a model—she’s a businesswoman who knows how to turn her personal experiences into something meaningful and impactful.

She’s constantly sharing skincare tips with her fans, encouraging people to embrace their natural beauty and prioritize self-care. For Winnie, skincare isn’t just about looking good—it’s about feeling good in your own skin, no matter what.

24. She was honored with the "Role Model" award

Winnie Harlow isn’t just a model—she’s a true inspiration. In 2017, she was honored with the "Role Model" award at the Glamour Women of the Year Awards for her groundbreaking impact on the fashion industry and her advocacy for self-love. This was a huge moment because it wasn’t just about her beauty or career—it was about who she is as a person and how she’s inspired others.

Throughout her journey, Winnie has been an outspoken advocate for diversity in fashion, constantly pushing for more representation of different skin tones, body types, and beauty standards. She’s also been incredibly open about her struggles with bullying and self-acceptance, showing young people that confidence is something you build over time.

Winning this award solidified her status as more than just a model—it proved that she’s a role model for an entire generation. And she’s not stopping anytime soon.

25. She's an advocate for self-love

If there’s one thing Winnie Harlow is known for (aside from being absolutely stunning), it’s her unapologetic self-love. She’s spent years using her platform to spread body positivity, encourage people to embrace their differences, and challenge the beauty standards that have dominated the industry for decades.

She constantly reminds people that confidence doesn’t happen overnight—it’s something you have to work on every single day. In interviews, she’s spoken about how she used to struggle with self-acceptance, but she eventually realized that her uniqueness is her superpower.

She’s also called out the fashion industry for its lack of diversity, saying that representation shouldn’t just be a trend—it should be the norm. Her impact has helped open doors for other unconventional beauty icons, making the industry more inclusive for future generations.

Winnie’s message is simple but powerful: love yourself, be proud of who you are, and don’t let anyone define your worth.

26. She's been in a Beyoncé music video (for real this time)

Winnie Harlow is officially Beyoncé-approved. While she once had to turn down a Beyoncé project due to scheduling conflicts, she later got the ultimate redemption by starring in the visual album for Lemonade.

Being part of a Beyoncé project is a huge deal—only the most iconic artists, models, and dancers get chosen for her videos. Winnie’s appearance in Lemonade was a full-circle moment, proving that sometimes, things happen when they’re meant to happen.

Beyoncé has always been a champion of strong, independent women, so it’s no surprise that she wanted Winnie in her project. The collaboration cemented Winnie’s status as a pop culture icon, showing that she’s not just a model—she’s a force in the entertainment industry too.

Now that she’s worked with both Drake and Beyoncé, we can only imagine who’s next. Maybe a Rihanna collab?

27. She's just getting started

If you think Winnie Harlow has already done it all, think again—she’s just getting started. She’s already conquered modeling, beauty, skincare, and even music videos, but she’s got her eyes set on even bigger things.

She’s hinted that she wants to try acting, and with her natural charisma and on-screen presence, it wouldn’t be surprising if she ended up in a Hollywood blockbuster someday. She’s also focused on expanding her beauty empire, continuing to change the conversation around skincare and self-care.

What makes Winnie so special is that she’s constantly evolving. She never lets herself get boxed into one role—whether it’s runway modeling, entrepreneurship, or advocacy, she does it all. And she does it on her own terms.

She’s already made history multiple times, but something tells us she’s got a lot more history to make. Winnie Harlow isn’t just a model—she’s a movement, and the world is watching to see what she does next.

Winnie Harlow isn’t just a model—she’s a force to be reckoned with. She’s breaking barriers, challenging beauty standards, and proving that confidence is the best thing you can wear. Whether she’s walking the runway, launching businesses, or inspiring millions, one thing’s for sure—she’s unstoppable.

Stay tuned for more iconic fashion and beauty stories at Woke Waves Magazine.