Kelsey Merritt

Kelsey Alaine Merritt is a Filipino-American fashion model best known as the first person of Filipino heritage to walk in the prestigious Victoria's Secret Fashion Show and to appear in the pages of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. Born on October 1, 1996, in Pampanga, Philippines, she quickly rose to global fame through her high-profile campaigns, digital presence, and milestone runway appearances. Today, Merritt works with leading fashion houses, beauty brands, and international model agencies while maintaining a prominent position in fashion media.

Early Life and Education

Merritt grew up in the Philippines with a Filipina mother and an American father. At age 15, while still in high school, she was scouted as a model and began appearing in local editorials and commercials. Despite early success in Manila, Merritt prioritized her academic goals. She enrolled at Ateneo de Manila University in Quezon City, where she successfully balanced a growing modeling schedule with her studies. In May 2017, she earned a bachelor's degree in communications. Shortly after graduation, she relocated to New York City to expand her international career.

Modeling Career and Breakthroughs

In 2018, Merritt made global headlines when she was selected to walk in the annual Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, becoming the first Filipina model in history to take the iconic runway. The historic milestone launched her into international stardom. The following year, she made her debut in the 2019 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue as a rookie, photographed in the Bahamas. She went on to appear in the annual swimsuit publication for three consecutive years (2019 to 2021). Throughout her modeling career, Merritt has worked with major luxury and mainstream fashion brands, including Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, DKNY, Vera Wang, Revolve, and Maybelline. She has been represented by top modeling agencies, including IMG Models, Wilhelmina, and Nomad Management.

Digital Influence and Personal Life

Beyond traditional runway and editorial work, Merritt has established a strong digital presence, sharing high-fashion looks, travel adventures, and wellness tips with millions of online followers. She is also an advocate for ocean conservation, frequently encouraging environmental sustainability and plastic-free living. Having spent time residing in both New York City and Los Angeles, Merritt continues to serve as a landmark figure for Asian representation in global fashion.