Lara Stone is one of the most recognizable models of the 21st century. Known for her distinctive gap-toothed smile, striking features, and confident runway presence, she helped redefine beauty standards in the fashion industry. Over the years, she has worked with some of the world’s most prestigious fashion houses and appeared on countless magazine covers.
From being discovered as a young teenager in Paris to becoming the face of major luxury brands, Lara Stone’s journey is a remarkable success story. This article explores her early life, modeling career, personal life, achievements, and lasting influence on the fashion world.
Who Is Lara Stone? A Short Biography
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lara Catherina Stone |
| Date of Birth | December 20, 1983 |
| Age | 42 (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | Geldrop, Netherlands |
| Nationality | Dutch |
| Profession | Fashion Model |
| Years Active | 1999–Present |
| Famous For | Modeling, Calvin Klein Campaigns |
| Children | 2 |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | David Grievson |
| Height | Approximately 5 ft 10 in (178 cm) |
Information compiled from publicly available sources.
Early Life and Discovery
Childhood in the Netherlands
Lara Stone was born in Geldrop and grew up in Mierlo, a town in the southern Netherlands. Her mother is Dutch, while her father is English, giving her a multicultural background that later contributed to her international appeal.
Before entering the fashion industry, she lived a relatively ordinary childhood. However, her life changed dramatically during a family trip to Paris.
Discovered in the Paris Metro
At the age of 12, Stone was discovered by a modeling scout while traveling on the Paris Metro with her family. The encounter introduced her to the world of fashion and eventually led to professional opportunities.
A few years later, she entered the Elite Model Look competition. Although she did not win, agency executives were impressed by her potential and signed her, marking the beginning of her modeling career.
Rise to International Fame
Breakthrough in Fashion
While Stone began modeling in her teens, her major breakthrough came in 2006 after signing with IMG Models. That year, she appeared in prestigious runway shows and quickly attracted attention from leading designers.
Her unique appearance stood out in an industry often criticized for promoting uniform beauty standards. Rather than hiding her signature gap between her front teeth, Stone embraced it, turning it into one of her most recognizable features.
Becoming the Face of Calvin Klein
One of the defining moments of her career came in 2010 when she signed an exclusive agreement with Calvin Klein. The brand selected her as the face of multiple global campaigns, a rare distinction that elevated her status to supermodel level.
The partnership proved highly successful and introduced her to an even broader international audience. Her Calvin Klein campaigns remain among the most memorable fashion advertisements of the decade.
Working With Luxury Fashion Houses
Throughout her career, Stone has collaborated with many of the world’s leading fashion brands, including:
- Chanel
- Prada
- Louis Vuitton
- Versace
- Givenchy
- Dolce & Gabbana
- Hugo Boss
- Fendi
Her ability to move effortlessly between high fashion editorials and commercial campaigns made her one of the industry’s most sought-after models.
Career Achievements
Magazine Covers and Editorial Success
Lara Stone has appeared on the covers of numerous international fashion magazines, including various editions of Vogue. Her editorial work helped establish her reputation as one of the defining faces of modern fashion.
Fashion photographers and editors frequently praised her versatility, professionalism, and distinctive look.
Industry Recognition
Stone achieved significant recognition within the modeling industry. She reached the number one position on Models.com’s influential Top 50 Models ranking and later earned “Industry Icon” status.
Her success reflected not only commercial popularity but also widespread respect from fashion insiders.
Expanding Beyond Modeling
In addition to modeling, Stone has occasionally appeared in film projects. She made a cameo appearance in Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie and participated in other creative projects outside traditional runway work.
Although modeling remains her primary focus, these ventures demonstrated her interest in broader artistic opportunities.
Personal Life
Marriage and Family
Stone married British comedian and television personality David Walliams in 2010. The couple welcomed a son, Alfred, in 2013 before later separating and divorcing in 2015.
In 2021, she married property developer David Grievson. The couple later welcomed a son named Bob in 2023.
Openness About Personal Challenges
Throughout her career, Stone has occasionally spoken about personal struggles, including her experience with alcohol addiction and rehabilitation. Her willingness to discuss these challenges publicly earned respect from many fans and industry observers.
Her story highlights both the pressures associated with fame and the importance of seeking support when needed.
Lara Stone’s Influence on Fashion
Changing Beauty Standards
One reason Lara Stone remains influential is her role in challenging conventional beauty ideals. Her gap-toothed smile became an iconic feature that helped broaden the industry’s definition of beauty.
Instead of conforming to traditional expectations, she demonstrated that individuality can become a powerful asset.
Inspiring a New Generation
Many younger models cite Stone as an inspiration because of her authenticity and confidence. Her success encouraged agencies and brands to embrace a wider variety of looks and personalities.
The fashion industry has evolved considerably since her rise to prominence, and Stone is often credited as one of the figures who helped drive that change.
Lasting Legacy
Even after decades in the industry, Lara Stone continues to be recognized as one of the most important models of her generation. Her campaigns, magazine covers, and runway appearances remain influential references within fashion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who is Lara Stone?
A: Lara Stone is a Dutch fashion model known for her work with luxury fashion brands and her high-profile campaigns for Calvin Klein. She became one of the most successful models of the 2010s.
Q: How old is Lara Stone?
A: Lara Stone was born on December 20, 1983, making her 42 years old in 2026.
Q: Why is Lara Stone famous?
A: She is famous for her successful modeling career, distinctive appearance, Calvin Klein campaigns, Vogue covers, and influence on modern beauty standards.
Q: Is Lara Stone married?
A: Yes. Lara Stone married property developer David Grievson in 2021. She was previously married to comedian David Walliams.
Q: How was Lara Stone discovered?
A: She was discovered by a modeling scout while traveling with her family in the Paris Metro at age 12.
Conclusion
Lara Stone’s journey from a young girl discovered in the Paris Metro to one of the world’s most celebrated supermodels is a testament to talent, resilience, and individuality. Her groundbreaking campaigns, iconic editorial work, and willingness to embrace her unique appearance helped reshape modern fashion.
More than just a successful model, she became a symbol of authenticity in an industry often driven by conformity. As fashion continues to evolve, Lara Stone’s influence remains visible, ensuring her place among the most important models of her generation.
