Josephine Skriver

Josephine Skriver Karlsen is a Danish fashion model and entrepreneur recognized internationally for her high-fashion runway work and prominent brand campaigns. Discovered in New York as a teenager, she quickly rose to global fame, walking in hundreds of haute couture and ready-to-wear shows for luxury houses around the world. Skriver achieved wide renown as an official Victoria's Secret Angel and has since expanded her career into fitness apparel, brand partnerships, and advocacy.

Early Life and Career

Born on April 14, 1993, in Copenhagen, Denmark, Skriver was raised in a supportive family environment. She was discovered at age 15 during a trip to New York City and subsequently signed with Unique Models in Denmark. She deferred full-time modeling until completing her education, after which she made her international runway debut in 2011 for major brands such as Calvin Klein and Rag & Bone. Soon after, Skriver became a fixture on the major fashion week circuits in Milan, Paris, and New York, walking for premier labels including Chanel, Prada, Gucci, Givenchy, Christian Dior, Valentino, and Dolce & Gabbana. Over her career, she has walked in well over 300 runway shows.

Victoria's Secret and Major Campaigns

Skriver made her debut in the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show in 2013, appearing consistently in subsequent years. In 2016, she was officially named a Victoria's Secret Angel, making her one of the select group of models to hold the prestigious contract until the brand restructured its Angel program. In addition to her lingerie modeling, Skriver featured in high-profile editorials for international editions of Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, and Elle, as well as campaigns for Maybelline New York, DKNY, Michael Kors, and MAC Cosmetics. In 2020, she made her debut in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, where she was nominated as a Rookie of the Year.

Fitness Ventures and Personal Life

Beyond modeling, Skriver is an active entrepreneur and fitness enthusiast. In 2016, she co-founded the online fitness community and social platform Joja alongside fellow model Jasmine Tookes. The platform eventually expanded into an activewear brand focused on performance apparel and joint workout culture. Skriver is also known for her vocal advocacy on LGBTQ+ rights and visibility, frequently sharing her personal background as a child conceived via IVF to gay parents. In April 2022, she married American musician Alexander DeLeon in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, and the couple resides in Los Angeles.