Joan Smalls was born on November 7, 1988, in Puerto Rico. She was raised by her parents, Betzaida Rodriguez and Eric Smalls, alongside her two sisters. Growing up in Hatillo, Smalls was just a regular teenager when she was discovered by a talent scout while out shopping with her family.
After being discovered, Smalls quickly made a name for herself in the modeling industry. In 2012, she was ranked the #1 Model in the World by models.com, solidifying her status as a true supermodel. Known for her striking features and confident presence on the runway, Smalls has walked for some of the biggest names in the fashion world, including Victoria's Secret, Chanel, and Gucci.
One of Smalls' biggest accomplishments came in 2014 when she became the first Latina to be named a spokesperson for Estee Lauder. This groundbreaking partnership helped to pave the way for more diversity in the beauty industry. Additionally, in 2018, Smalls showed her acting chops in the Netflix original movie, "Set It Up."
Despite her hectic schedule, Smalls always makes time for her family. She remains close to her parents and sisters, often sharing glimpses of her personal life on social media. Known for her down-to-earth personality and infectious smile, Smalls has won over fans around the world with her charm and grace.
Throughout her career, Smalls has collaborated with some of the biggest names in fashion and entertainment. In 2013, she appeared on the cover of Vanity Fair alongside fellow model Karlie Kloss, showcasing her versatility and star power. She has also worked with designers like Tom Ford and Marc Jacobs, cementing her status as a fashion icon.
As one of the most influential models of her generation, Joan Smalls has left a lasting impact on the fashion industry. Breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes, she continues to inspire young men and women around the world to pursue their dreams and embrace their unique identities. With her distinctive beauty and unwavering confidence, Smalls has proven time and time again that she is a force to be reckoned with.