Early Life and Discovery
Lara Catherina Stone, born on December 20, 1983, in Geldrop, Netherlands, grew up in the small town of Mierlo. With a Dutch mother and an English father, Lara had a unique cultural background. Despite the quiet and peaceful nature of her hometown, Lara’s life took a dramatic turn at the age of 12. While on a family vacation in Paris, she was spotted in the Paris Metro by a modeling scout who immediately recognized her raw potential.
This moment proved to be pivotal in Lara’s life, leading her to pursue a career in modeling. By the time she was 15, she had entered the prestigious Elite Model Look competition, catching the attention of industry executives, though she did not win. Nevertheless, the exposure from this competition led to her signing with Elite Model Management, and she began her journey toward becoming a globally recognized figure in the fashion world.
Breakthrough in the Fashion World
Lara’s career skyrocketed in 2006 when she signed with IMG Models. That year, she made her much-anticipated debut at the Givenchy couture show during Paris Fashion Week, a move that would mark the beginning of her meteoric rise in the fashion industry. Following this, she secured an exclusivity deal with Calvin Klein, further cementing her status as one of the most sought-after models in the world.
Her striking looks and unconventional beauty quickly caught the attention of designers, and she was soon featured in Vogue Paris and other top fashion magazines. Lara’s appeal was unique—fashion critic Cathy Horyn famously described her as the “anti-model,” which referred to her refreshing departure from traditional model standards. Lara’s authenticity and ability to bring a raw, effortless charm to her work made her a favorite among designers, enabling her to open and close shows for prestigious brands like Chanel, Fendi, and Balmain.
Rising Stardom (2009–2012)
By 2009, Lara Stone had firmly established herself as one of the industry’s top models. She graced the cover of Vogue Paris, a major milestone that cemented her place in fashion history. She was also named one of the top 30 models of the 2000s, a recognition that highlighted her rising star power. Throughout this period, Lara’s collaborations with Calvin Klein became iconic, and her exclusivity deals spanned multiple seasons.
Her unique features, including her gap-toothed smile and full lips, set a global trend and inspired a new wave of models with unconventional features. During this time, she worked with high-end brands such as Louis Vuitton, Versace, and Prada, showcasing her versatility as a model. Lara also debuted on Forbes’ Top-Earning Models list, securing her place as one of the top figures in the fashion industry.
Continued Success and Evolution
Lara’s career continued to flourish as she expanded her presence beyond traditional modeling. She made several appearances in the prestigious Pirelli Calendar, working with renowned photographers like Terry Richardson and Mario Sorrenti. These appearances showcased Lara’s ability to transcend the realm of fashion photography and solidified her position as a leading figure in the modeling world.
In addition to her work in fashion, Lara ventured into acting. She made cameo appearances in films such as *Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie* and starred in short films like *En Moi (In Me)*, which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in 2016. Despite the changing landscape of the fashion industry, Lara’s ability to stay relevant was proven by her continued presence on models.com’s “Top 50 Models” list and her eventual elevation to the prestigious “Industry Icons” list.
Personal Life: Triumphs and Challenges
Behind the glamorous exterior of her career, Lara Stone has faced significant personal challenges. In 2009, she publicly sought treatment for alcoholism, an issue she has spoken about with honesty and courage. This period of vulnerability in her life only served to highlight her resilience and strength.
Lara’s personal life also included high-profile relationships. In 2010, she married comedian David Walliams, and the couple welcomed a son, Alfred, in 2013. Unfortunately, their marriage ended in 2015. Lara continued to balance her career and motherhood, proving that she was not only a successful model but also a dedicated mother.
In 2021, Lara found love again, marrying property developer David Grievson. Through it all, she maintained her grace and perseverance, juggling her personal life with her demanding career in the fashion world.
Impact on the Modeling Industry
Lara Stone has had a profound impact on the modeling industry, redefining what it means to be beautiful in fashion. Her gap-toothed smile and distinctive features set her apart from the typical beauty standards in the industry, and her success paved the way for models with unique characteristics to thrive. She has inspired a new generation of models to embrace their individuality and to celebrate what makes them different.
Beyond her physical attributes, Lara has used her platform to advocate for mental health and self-care. She has openly discussed her struggles with alcoholism and recovery, which has endeared her to fans and colleagues alike. By sharing her journey, she has become a role model for others, demonstrating that it’s possible to overcome personal obstacles and continue to succeed professionally.
Legacy and Current Endeavors
Today, Lara Stone remains a powerful force in the fashion industry, continuing to collaborate with top-tier brands and appear on prestigious magazine covers. She has transitioned seamlessly into other creative ventures, including acting and philanthropy, and her influence on modern fashion remains undeniable.
Her ability to stay authentic and true to herself in a constantly evolving industry has only solidified her legacy as a timeless icon. As she celebrates over two decades in the spotlight, Lara continues to inspire individuals around the world with her resilience, individuality, and unwavering commitment to being herself.
Conclusion
Lara Stone’s journey from a young girl discovered in the Paris Metro to an international fashion icon is a testament to her talent, determination, and ability to break boundaries. Throughout her career, she has challenged conventional beauty standards, paving the way for others to follow. With her legacy firmly established, Lara Stone remains a symbol of authenticity and resilience in the ever-evolving world of fashion.
