Winnie Harlow, a renowned Canadian fashion model and entrepreneur, has captivated the fashion industry with her unique look and undeniable talent. As of 2024, Harlow’s net worth is estimated to be $5 million. Rising to fame as a contestant on America’s Next Top Model, she has since built an impressive career in modeling, business, and public speaking. Here’s a closer look at her journey, achievements, and financial success.
Early Life and Family
Born as Chantelle Whitney Brown-Young on July 27, 1994, in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada, Winnie Harlow is of Jamaican descent. She was raised by her parents, Lisa and Windsor Young, alongside her two sisters. At the age of four, Harlow was diagnosed with vitiligo, a skin condition that causes loss of pigmentation in patches. Growing up, she faced bullying due to her condition, leading her to switch schools frequently before ultimately dropping out of high school.
Despite these challenges, she remained determined to succeed. Her experiences with vitiligo would later shape her role as an advocate and public speaker, inspiring many around the world.
Rise to Fame: America’s Next Top Model
Harlow’s big break came in 2014 when she was discovered on Instagram by America’s Next Top Model creator Tyra Banks. She became one of the 14 finalists in the show’s 21st cycle, making history as the first Canadian contestant. Though she was eliminated early in the finals, she competed in a separate comeback competition, winning her way back into the main contest. Ultimately, she finished in sixth place, but her exposure on the show paved the way for her modeling career.
Modeling Career and Major Collaborations
Following her time on America’s Next Top Model, Harlow quickly secured her first major modeling contract with Spanish fashion brand Desigual, becoming its official brand representative. She made her runway debut at London Fashion Week for the fashion label Ashish and later worked with prominent brands, including Diesel, Fendi, Marc Jacobs, Tommy Hilfiger, Nike, Puma, and Victoria’s Secret.
In 2018, Harlow made history as the first model with vitiligo to walk in the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. Her appearances in international fashion magazines, such as Cosmopolitan, Ebony, Complex, and the Spanish and Italian editions of Glamour, further solidified her status as a global fashion icon.
Advocacy and Public Speaking on Vitiligo
Even before entering the modeling industry, Harlow was vocal about her experience with vitiligo. In 2011, she released a YouTube video titled Vitiligo: A Skin Condition, Not a Life Changer, where she shared her journey and answered questions about the condition. In 2014, she expanded on her advocacy by delivering a TEDx talk, raising awareness about vitiligo and encouraging self-acceptance.
Her work in this space has earned her recognition as a spokesperson for individuals with vitiligo, helping to challenge beauty standards and promote diversity in the fashion industry.
Music Video Appearances and Television Cameos
Beyond modeling, Harlow has made several notable appearances in music videos. Her first came in 2014, featuring in JMSN’s The One and Eminem and Sia’s Guts Over Fear. In 2016, she appeared in Beyoncé’s Lemonade visual album, further elevating her pop culture status. Additional music video credits include Calvin Harris and Sam Smith’s Promises and Wizkid’s True Love.
Harlow has also made guest appearances on various television shows. In 2015, she featured in ABC’s What Would You Do?, and in 2020, she served as a guest judge on RuPaul’s Drag Race and Legendary.
Business Ventures and Entrepreneurship
In 2022, Harlow took her entrepreneurial aspirations to new heights by launching Cay Skin, a skincare and sun care brand. The inspiration for the brand came from her personal experience of suffering severe sunburn during a photo shoot after being advised not to reapply sunscreen to avoid white residue. Motivated to develop products that cater to all skin types without leaving a white cast, she created Cay Skin. The brand quickly gained popularity, reflecting her passion for skincare and inclusivity.
Real Estate Investments
Winnie Harlow has also invested in real estate, demonstrating her keen business acumen. In December 2020, she purchased a home in Tarzana, California, for $3.298 million. In March 2024, she listed the property for sale at $3.695 million, highlighting her ability to make strategic financial moves beyond her modeling career.
Net Worth and Financial Success
With a net worth of $5 million in 2024, Winnie Harlow has built a multifaceted career encompassing modeling, business, public speaking, and television. Her collaborations with high-profile brands, coupled with her skincare line and real estate investments, have significantly contributed to her financial success.
Beyond the numbers, Harlow’s impact extends far beyond wealth. She has broken barriers in the fashion industry, championed diversity, and inspired millions to embrace their unique beauty. Her journey from facing childhood bullying to becoming a world-renowned model and entrepreneur is a testament to resilience and determination.