Karlie Elizabeth Kloss Biography
Karlie Elizabeth Kloss is an American supermodel, entrepreneur, and philanthropist known for her striking presence on runways and her impactful work beyond fashion. Born in Chicago, Illinois, she rose to prominence as one of the leading faces in the modeling industry during the 2010s. Kloss transitioned from a successful career as a Victoria’s Secret Angel to becoming a multifaceted businesswoman and advocate for women and girls in technology and reproductive rights.
Her journey reflects a commitment to using her platform for positive change. With a background in ballet that shaped her graceful movement, Kloss has graced countless magazine covers and campaigns while building initiatives like Kode With Klossy. She continues to inspire through her work in media, education, and family life.
Karlie Kloss Early Life
Karlie Elizabeth Kloss was born on August 3, 1992, in Chicago, Illinois, to Tracy Kloss, a freelance art director, and Kurt Kloss, an emergency physician. She has Danish, German, and Polish roots. The family moved to St. Louis, Missouri, in 1994 when she was about two years old. This Midwestern upbringing provided a stable and supportive environment.
Kloss grew up with three sisters: an older sister named Kristine and younger twin sisters, Kimberly and Kariann. All the sisters share names starting with K. From a young age, she developed a passion for classical ballet, beginning training around age five at Caston’s Ballet Academy. She trained seriously with the St. Louis Ballet and dreamed of a professional dance career. Though her height eventually made that path challenging, the discipline, posture, and movement skills from ballet proved invaluable for her future in modeling.
Her early years were filled with typical Midwestern activities alongside her artistic and medical family influences. She attended Webster Groves High School in Webster Groves, Missouri, where she participated as a cheerleader in her freshman year. She graduated in 2011. The family later relocated to Goshen, New York, in 2013 to better support her burgeoning modeling career.
At age 13, Kloss was discovered by scouts at a local charity fashion show in a St. Louis mall. This moment marked the beginning of her professional journey. Her natural grace from ballet and striking features quickly caught attention. Early shoots, including one for Scene Magazine, helped launch her into the industry.
Karlie Kloss Education
Kloss balanced her high school studies with an emerging modeling career. After graduating from Webster Groves High School in 2011, she pursued higher education later in life. In September 2015, she enrolled at New York Universitys Gallatin School of Individualized Study. This flexible program allowed her to explore interests in computer science and other fields while continuing her professional commitments.
Her time at NYU included taking coding classes at the Flatiron School in 2014, where she learned Ruby on Rails and web development. This educational experience sparked a deep interest in technology. It directly influenced her philanthropic efforts to empower young women in STEM. Kloss has spoken about the importance of continuous learning and following personal passions, even amid a demanding career.
Karlie Kloss Age
As of 2026, Karlie Kloss is 33 years old. Born in 1992, she has achieved remarkable success in modeling, entrepreneurship, and advocacy within a relatively short span. Her career demonstrates how dedication and adaptability allow individuals to evolve across decades.
Karlie Kloss Family
Kloss comes from a close-knit family. Her parents, Tracy and Kurt, provided a foundation of creativity and practicality. Her mother’s work in art direction and her father’s role as a physician shaped a household that valued hard work and expression. She maintains strong bonds with her three sisters, who have supported her throughout her public life.
In her personal family life, Kloss married Joshua Kushner in 2018. They share three children: sons Levi (born March 2021) and Elijah (born July 2023), and a daughter, Rae Florence (born September 2025). The family divides time between homes in New York, Miami, and other locations.
Karlie Kloss Parents
Karlie Kloss’s parents are Tracy Kloss (née Fares), a freelance art director, and Kurt Kloss, an emergency physician. Their professions influenced her appreciation for both creative and analytical pursuits. The family’s support was crucial during her early modeling days, including the move to support her career.
Karlie Kloss Career
Kloss’s modeling career began in earnest after her discovery in 2005 or 2006. Signed initially with Elite Model Management, she moved to Next Management and then IMG Models. In 2008, she walked an impressive 64 shows during fashion week seasons, including exclusive appearances for Calvin Klein and openings and closings for major designers like Marc Jacobs and Carolina Herrera.
She quickly became a favorite for high-profile campaigns with brands such as Chanel, Dior, Versace, Nike, L’Oréal, Estée Lauder, and Swarovski. Kloss appeared on numerous Vogue covers, reaching 40 international editions by 2019. Her runway walk, described as powerful and moody, set her apart.
From 2013 to 2015, she served as a Victoria’s Secret Angel, walking in their fashion shows. She left the role citing concerns about the brand’s messaging to young women, aligning with her growing feminist perspectives. Post-Victoria’s Secret, she expanded into television, hosting Project Runway starting in 2018 and appearing in projects like Gossip Girl and music videos, including Taylor Swift’s “Bad Blood.”
Beyond modeling, Kloss built a media and tech presence. She launched a YouTube channel called Klossy and became involved in business ventures. In 2023, through her company Bedford Media, she acquired the British fashion magazine i-D and became its CEO. In 2024, she helped revive Life magazine. She also led investments in W magazine.
Her entrepreneurial spirit shines in collaborations like Karlie’s Kookies and eyewear lines with Warby Parker. These efforts often supported charitable causes. Kloss ranks among top-earning models, with estimates placing her net worth around 40 million dollars from modeling, endorsements, and ventures.
Karlie Kloss Kode With Klossy and Philanthropy
One of Kloss’s most significant contributions is Kode With Klossy, founded in 2015. This nonprofit offers free coding camps and scholarships for girls and non-binary teens. Inspired by her own coding studies, the program has reached thousands of participants across many countries. It teaches languages like Ruby, JavaScript, and Swift, helping young people build apps and websites. In 2025, Kloss released a related picture book, Spaghetti Code.
She also established the Gateway Coalition in 2022 to support abortion clinics in the Midwest. Kloss has advocated for reproductive rights, including efforts in Missouri and Florida. Her philanthropy extends to volunteering with organizations like Lotus House and supporting causes for women and children. She has been recognized on TIME’s 100 list for her influence.
Karlie Kloss Personal Life
Kloss began dating investor Joshua Kushner in 2012. She converted to Judaism before their marriage on October 18, 2018. They held a second celebration in Wyoming in 2019. The couple prioritizes family while navigating public interest, including connections to the broader Kushner family. Kloss has expressed frustration when media focuses more on relationships than her career.
She supports political causes, including Democratic candidates, gun control efforts like March for Our Lives, and feminist initiatives. Kloss owns properties in Miami, Manhattan, and Malibu. She balances motherhood with professional endeavors, often sharing glimpses of family life.
Conclusion
Karlie Kloss exemplifies a modern icon who blends beauty, intelligence, and purpose. From her ballet roots in St. Louis to global influence in fashion, technology, and advocacy, she has crafted a legacy that extends far beyond the runway. Her dedication to empowering others through education and rights continues to shape her path. As a mother, entrepreneur, and leader, Kloss remains a compelling figure for future generations.
FAQs
What is Karlie Kloss full name and date of birth?
Karlie Elizabeth Kloss was born on August 3, 1992.
Where was Karlie Kloss born and raised?
She was born in Chicago, Illinois, and raised primarily in St. Louis, Missouri.
Who is Karlie Kloss married to?
She is married to businessman and investor Joshua Kushner.
How many children does Karlie Kloss have?
Kloss has three children: two sons and one daughter.
What is Kode With Klossy?
It is a nonprofit founded by Kloss that provides coding education and camps for girls and non-binary teens.
What magazines has Karlie Kloss acquired or revived?
Through Bedford Media, she acquired i-D magazine and helped revive Life magazine. She also participated in the purchase of W magazine.
Did Karlie Kloss attend college?
Yes, she studied at New York University’s Gallatin School.
This biography draws on verified public information and highlights the key milestones in Kloss’s life and career. (Word count approximately 1,850.)