Jaslene Gonzalez’s name is known far beyond Chicago. This model has repeatedly conquered international runways, worn stunning outfits from famous designers, and graced the covers of various magazines. We’ll take a closer look at her life on chicagoka.com.
Childhood and Early Life
Jaslene was born on May 29, 1986, in Bayamón, Puerto Rico. When she was 5 years old, her family moved to Chicago and settled near Humboldt Park, where she spent her childhood. Jaslene is one of five children. Her mother worked as a clothing designer and her father was a college professor. It was likely her parents who instilled in her a love for beautiful and stylish things. In one of her interviews, Jaslene mentioned that she showed an interest in fashion and modeling from a young age. According to her, while attending the prestigious Notre Dame High School for Girls in Chicago, she actively pursued her interest in modeling, which led her classmates to call her a “weirdo.”
First Steps in the Modeling Business
When Jaslene turned 16, she began working with the modeling agency Avant-Garde Models, led by Chicago designer Michelle Gomez. During this time, she actively participated in fashion shows for local designers. Her photos appeared in local newspapers, but she wasn’t yet considering a professional career.
In 2007, determined to achieve more and make a name for herself, Gonzalez auditioned for the seventh cycle of America’s Next Top Model but was cut in the semifinals. While others might have been discouraged, Jaslene was not. Set on success, she returned for Cycle 8 in 2007 and won the competition. Her stunning looks, intelligence, and hard work clearly helped her succeed. Gonzalez became the first contestant to participate in multiple cycles and win. During the competition, she received numerous accolades, including “CoverGirl of the Week” and winning the Go-Sees challenge in Sydney.
All of this brought the model unprecedented popularity. She received many invitations for photoshoots with major magazines and was named the first “Latin American Beauty” by the English publication Colures. Jaslene went on to work with well-known brands such as CoverGirl, Seventeen, Latina, Imagén, Hombre, and 6 Degrees. Notably, her contract with CoverGirl was valued at $100,000. During this time, Gonzalez also decided to try her hand at acting, appearing in films and shows like Nothing Like the Holidays, 106 & Park, Project Runway, and others.
Interesting Facts
- The model’s net worth is estimated at $1 million. Her main sources of income are her modeling career, acting roles, and brand endorsements. Her financial success has also been boosted by appearances in music videos and fashion campaigns.
- Jaslene has walked runways in countries such as Mexico, India, Malaysia, and Thailand.
- The model actively participates in various charitable events, using her platform to support programs related to women’s empowerment.
Jaslene Gonzalez continues to work in the fashion industry, participating in various modeling projects and fashion events. She is active on social media, where she enjoys connecting with her audience and promoting brands. Her journey from a young woman from a modest family to a successful model and TV personality is an inspiration to many. Gonzalez remains a prominent figure in the fashion industry, expanding her career through new endeavors, including potential collaborations and projects that align with her experience and passions.