DUBAI: US Dutch Palestinian supermodel Gigi Hadid made a surprise appearance at the Victoria’s Secret casting call in Miami this week, joining the nationwide search for a new generation of runway models ahead of the brand’s 2026 fashion show.
The supermodel was spotted at Dadeland Mall, where aspiring models gathered for the open casting event, one of several taking place across the US this spring. According to local reports, Hadid appeared as both a mentor and judge, posing for photos with contestants and offering support to hopeful newcomers.
Victoria’s Secret launched the multi-city casting initiative earlier this year as part of its continued reinvention following the return of its fashion show in 2024 after a six-year hiatus. The selected winner is expected to walk in the 2026 runway show and secure representation with IMG Models, the agency that represents stars including Gigi and Bella Hadid.
In Miami, Hadid embraced polished summer style, wearing a retro-inspired polka dot skirt and ivory top before later stepping out in a babydoll dress layered over jeans. The appearance comes just weeks after Hadid attended the 2026 Met Gala in New York, where her dramatic couture look was inspired by this year’s exhibition theme, “Costume Art.” The model made her 11th consecutive appearance at the event wearing a custom Miu Miu dress.
Hadid has continued to dominate fashion headlines in recent months through major runway appearances, campaign work and high-profile outings on the red carpet. She has also been promoting her own brand, Guest in Residence, which focuses on high-end cashmere apparel.
Hadid first walked in the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in 2015 and quickly became one of the brand’s defining faces during its final years before the televised spectacle was paused amid criticism over diversity and body image standards. The company’s new casting approach, which is open to applicants without agency representation, has been positioned as part of a broader effort to modernize itself and widen access to the industry.
