Losing Our Wings: Karlie Kloss and Branding

It is no longer a secret: Karlie Kloss is leaving Victoria’s Secret. The 22-year-old supermodel removed her wings to land at New York University.

“It’s something I’ve always wanted to do,” said Kloss in reference to attending the university. She does plan to continue modeling, however, just not as much.

Kloss, known for her association with Victoria’s Secret, first appeared on the runway for the brand in 2011 during the annual Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. Since then, her involvement with the lingerie brand has soared into many other deals, including a contract she signed in 2013 making her a Victoria’s Secret Angel. By ending her contract with Victoria’s Secret, Kloss has impacted her personal brand.

Our personal brand is what sets us apart from our colleagues and can give us a competitive edge. Future employers can see our personal brands by looking at our portfolios and even our LinkedIn profiles. For models, personal branding includes what shows the model has walked in, what editorials the model has done, and her personal street style.  

Kloss’s personal brand includes her contracts with companies like L’Oreal Paris, Kate Spade, and her appearance on the cover of Vogue. One of her well-known personal brands includes her bob cut affectionately nicknamed the “Karlie Cut.” Every aspect of our life makes our brand, and our brand constantly evolves.

By ending her contract with Victoria’s Secret, Kloss’ brand will change. Her brand will now include a college education. Public relations students can learn from Kloss. By gaining new experiences, like an internship, public relations students can further develop their brand. Professionals have a brand. Every aspect of our life involves our brand and our brand constantly evolves. In my opinion, Kloss is making a great decision that will positively influence her brand.

By Tyler Krivich

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