WORLD
Gisele tipped to become the world’s first billionaire model
Baku, February 20 (AZERTAC). She's the world's richest model, but Gisele Bündchen's wealth is set to grow as her lingerie label goes global.
Launched last May, the Gisele Bündchen Brazilian Intimates range has proved popular in Latin America, Portugal, Japan, and Israel and now further expansion is expected.
The former Victoria's Secret Angel premiered her collection, for Brazilian company Hope, in São Paulo last May.
Stepping onto the catwalk the 31-year-old, mother-of-one showcased various designs featuring blush pink and black satin, tassels and lace.
After the 40-piece collection hit stores across Brazil the fashion retailer Hope reported a 40 per cent increase in turnover.
Now, the range is expected to be a hit with shoppers worldwide.
And with her products endorsements and business ventures earning a total of £29 million last year, Bündchen is now believed to be on track to becoming the world's first billionaire supermodel.
Following her entrepreneurial spirit, 26-year-old Bar Refaeli is also believed to be developing an underwear collection for men and women in the UK.
Basing the designs on 'classic underwear' shapes, the under.me collection is said to be launching next month and will be the model's first foray into branded products.
Like Gisele, Bar - who is currently the face of French lingerie firm Passionata - is set to be modelling the line herself although campaign images are yet to be released.
It was reported that the mid-priced line, will comprise of basic items aimed at consumers between the ages of 25 and 45.
Israeli-born Refaeli said: 'The Under.me philosophy is that underwear should complement your body, not steal the show.
'It was appealing to me to do a line of underwear from the fabric I like with the basic, comfy design I always look for, as well as underwear that can actually be delivered to your door.'
However Australian model Elle Macpherson was first to try her hand at underwear design back in 1990.
Her Elle Macpherson Intimates range is now available globally at stores across Europe, America, Australia and the Gulf States, although she is yet to penetrate fashion's most lucrative new market, China.