Inside the World of Victoria’s Secret Angel Lais Ribeiro
Brazilian supermodel Lais Ribeiro on confidence, career, culture, and her journey to becoming a Victoria's Secret Angel.

Lais Ribeiro is far more than an international supermodel and Victoria’s Secret Angel. With her radiant confidence, Brazilian pride, and inspiring journey, she epitomizes beauty, resilience, and ambition. In this in-depth interview, Lais opens up about what makes her feel sexy, her approach to fitness, the influence of her Latina background, her cherished memories from Brazil, and her hopes for the future. She also shares insight for aspiring models and reflects on the wisdom she’s gained over her career.
What Makes You Feel Sexy and Confident?
Lais Ribeiro’s energy radiates through her poise and positivity. So what is the secret to her glowing self-assurance?
- She admits to being a huge fan of Victoria’s Secret, even before stepping onto the runway herself. Particularly, she loves the ‘Body by Victoria’ line in lace, noting its popularity: “It’s always sold out!”
- Confidence, for Lais, is an inside job. “When I feel confident on the inside, it shows on the outside.“
- Looking and feeling great is also influenced by her relationships: “My boyfriend loves it when I buy new bras.”
Dedication to Fitness and Self-Care
As one of the world’s leading models, Ribeiro’s fitness regimen is both consistent and multifaceted. She shares:
- Daily gym visits: Consistency is her motto. “I go to the gym every day.”
- Her workouts include a mix of aerobics and yoga, ensuring her entire body benefits from varied movement.
- She believes in exercises that engage both physically and mentally, keeping her energized for demanding shoots and shows.
Favorite Fitness Activity | Benefits |
---|---|
Aerobics | Cardiovascular health, full-body toning, boosts endurance |
Yoga | Flexibility, core strength, mindfulness and stress relief |
Routine Variety | Prevents workout boredom and keeps the body challenged |
Pride in Her Latina Heritage
Lais’s Brazilian roots and Latina identity are at the heart of her individuality and spirit. She highlights several aspects of her background:
- “I love the music of Brazil.” In particular, she celebrates forró, a dance native to her hometown, which she likens to merengue or salsa. The music and dance culture of Brazil are major sources of joy and energy for her.
- Her city is not just a place but a feeling—a source of fashion, emotion, and inspiration.
- Being Latina embodies a rich tapestry of tradition, family, celebration, and strength, all of which fuel her sense of identity.
Favorite Childhood Memories from Brazil
When discussing her past, Ribeiro’s face lights up. For her, the happiest memories are rooted in family and home:
- Home is synonymous with happiness: “I have a baby and every time I’m there I am happy and with my family.”
- The best moments are those spent with family, old friends, and her city. Home holds a deep significance as the sanctuary where love, warmth, and connection thrive.
- These early years in Brazil continue to shape her values, humility, and gratitude.
How She Was Discovered—and the Road to Success
Lais’s journey from her small Brazilian town to supermodel status is a tale of serendipity and determination:
- Originally studying to be a nurse, Lais was encouraged to visit a modeling agency by a friend who was already involved in fashion. This chance introduction led to local opportunities, eventually capturing the attention of talent scouts heading to larger fashion hubs.
- Within months, Lais found herself in major cities—first São Paulo, then New York—immersing herself in the fast-paced world of fashion.
- The transition wasn’t always easy. Lais had to quickly adapt to the demands and challenges of international modeling: “When I first started, I didn’t know anything about the business.”
- The rise to becoming a Victoria’s Secret Angel required resilience, learning from others, and never losing sight of her unique vision.
On the Victoria’s Secret Stage: Living a Dream
Walking the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show runway is the stuff of legends. For Lais Ribeiro, the experience is both exhilarating and humbling.
- “The feeling that the whole world is watching the Victoria Secret Fashion Show, it’s so many emotions at the same time.” She describes being both “scared and excited,” a mix of nerves and gratitude.
- Lais looked up to iconic Angels like Adriana Lima and Alessandra Ambrosio—both Brazilian models who paved the way, inspiring her and countless others to dream bigger.
- Her talent, presence, and dedication eventually earned her the coveted title of Victoria’s Secret Angel, a role that continues to define her career and open new doors.
- She sees the brand as inclusive and empowering: “All the viewers look up to us, and we just want to prove to everyone that they can be a part of it also.”
Overcoming Setbacks and Celebrating Milestones
The road to the top is rarely smooth. Lais has met both challenges and unforgettable honors along the way:
- She first appeared in the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in 2010, but in 2012, an ankle injury forced her to miss the runway. Her resilience and determination brought her back stronger, and she’s maintained her prominence ever since.
- One of the highlights of her career was being chosen to wear the “Champagne Nights” Fantasy Bra, a bejeweled masterpiece valued at over $2 million. Upon first trying it on, Lais was overcome with emotion: “I cried. It was unbelievable.” Wearing the Fantasy Bra, designed with yellow diamonds, sapphires, and gold, solidified her standing in the world of high fashion.
Advice for Aspiring Models
Having experienced firsthand the triumphs and trials of the modeling world, Lais offers thoughtful advice for those dreaming of following in her footsteps:
- Her inspirations are legends like Adriana Lima and Candice Swanepoel, whom she sees as proof that hard work and passion can break barriers.
- “You have to be strong,” she explains. Modeling is glamorous but demanding, often requiring multitasking and unyielding dedication.
- She encourages aspiring models to draw lessons from every experience and remain open to personal growth: “Learn something new everyday from all of the different people you meet; experience life, you have to be open to learning more.”
Reflections: Advice to Her Teenage Self
Lais’s journey has granted her wisdom that she wishes she could share with her younger self:
- Be open to new experiences and embrace learning from all corners of life.
- Every person met and each challenge faced presents an opportunity for growth.
- Curiosity, resilience, and a humble heart are invaluable for navigating both career and life.
Hopes and Aspirations for the Future
Lais continues to set her sights high and envision new horizons:
- She hopes to continue her impactful role with Victoria’s Secret for years to come, building on her achievements and breaking new ground in fashion.
- Beyond lingerie, she dreams of gracing the pages of Vogue and broadening her presence in the global fashion industry.
- Above all, Lais strives to inspire young women—demonstrating that with grit, pride in one’s roots, and kindness, anything is possible.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How did Lais Ribeiro get started in modeling?
A: Lais was discovered in her small hometown in Brazil after joining a modeling agency at a friend’s suggestion. Rapid success in local fashion events led her to São Paulo and eventually the global stage.
Q: What are Lais Ribeiro’s core workout routines?
A: She exercises daily, emphasizing aerobics and yoga, both for full-body fitness and stress relief.
Q: What does Lais love most about her Latino heritage?
A: She cherishes Brazilian music, dance—particularly forró—and the sense of community and festivity that define her hometown and culture.
Q: Has Lais ever faced setbacks in her career?
A: Yes, such as missing the 2012 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show due to injury, but she returned stronger and has continued to thrive.
Q: What advice does Lais give to aspiring models?
A: She stresses the importance of strength, learning from every opportunity, and being open to growth—reminding future models to stay inspired and dedicated.
Final Thoughts
From humble beginnings in Brazil to the glittering runways of the world, Lais Ribeiro represents hope, ambition, and authenticity. Her journey is a tribute to inner strength, cultural pride, and the belief that confidence comes from within. As she continues to reach new heights in the fashion world, Lais remains committed to inspiring the next generation—with wisdom, humility, and an unmistakable Brazilian flair.
References
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lN0W0H5zonc
- https://www.hellomagazine.com/fashion/news/2017111058291/lais-ribeiro-cried-when-she-first-tried-on-victoria-s-secret-fantasy-bra/
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/interviews/a4040/lais-ribeiro-interview/
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/beauty-hair/celebrity-hair-makeup/a30158/victorias-secret-angels-vogue/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qBA4AEMz6Us
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