1. Early Life
Born in Madrid, Spain, Marina Carolina Pérez began her journey into modeling at an early age. Encouraged by her mother, she started posing for catalogs and advertisements at just 11 years old, laying the groundwork for her future career in the fashion world.
2. Career
Marina Carolina Pérez's modeling career spans from her early beginnings in Spain to widespread international acclaim, marked by collaborations with major fashion houses and renowned photographers.
2.1. Rise in Spain
Pérez made her catwalk debut during the fall Madrid runway season, walking for designer Miguel Palacio. Her first significant exposure came with an appearance on the cover of the Spanish edition of Elle. Her early talent and dedication were formally recognized when she received the L'Oréal modeling award at the prestigious Cibeles Madrid Fashion Week, an achievement that solidified her presence in the Spanish fashion scene and paved the way for her continuous work in the industry.
2.2. International Breakthrough
A pivotal moment in Pérez's career occurred in late 2001 when, at the age of 18, she relocated to New York City, marking her entry into the international fashion arena. In September 2003, she made her significant debut at New York Fashion Week for designer Betsey Johnson.
By 2004, Pérez's stature in the industry had grown considerably, with reports indicating she commanded over 8.00 K USD per runway show in New York City. Her international success extended to Europe, where she reportedly earned 5.00 K EUR for shows in Milan. Her extensive runway credentials include walking for an impressive roster of high-profile designers across New York, London, Milan, and Paris. Among the notable names she has walked for are Christian Dior, Louis Vuitton, Yves Saint Laurent, Alexander McQueen, Chloé, Givenchy, Prada, Balenciaga, Miu Miu, Lanvin, Dolce & Gabbana, Dries van Noten, Rick Owens, Rodarte, Marni, Gucci, Thakoon, and Nina Ricci. She has also had the distinction of opening shows for designers such as Proenza Schouler and Christopher Kane.
Beyond the catwalk, Pérez has collaborated with some of the most influential photographers in fashion, including Steven Meisel, Inez and Vinoodh, Mert and Marcus, and Patrick Demarchelier. Her image has graced the covers of numerous renowned magazines, such as Vogue, Dazed & Confused, Numéro, and 10 Magazine. Notably, she has appeared on the cover of Italian Vogue and three times on the Spanish edition of Vogue. In 2008, she joined Hilary Rhoda and Caroline Winberg as one of the faces for St. John, succeeding actress Angelina Jolie in the role.
3. Personal Life
Marina Carolina Pérez has a younger sister, Carla Pérez, who also works as a model. She is known to have a tattoo on the inside of her right wrist. Her natural hair color is blonde.