1. Overview
Stella Maynes Maxwell (born 1990) is a prominent model known for her work as a former Victoria's Secret Angel and as the face of the cosmetics brand Max Factor. Born in Brussels, Belgium, to Northern Irish parents, Maxwell's career has seen her grace the covers of international fashion magazines and walk for numerous high-profile designers. Beyond her modeling achievements, she has also been recognized as the "World's Hottest Woman" by Maxim magazine and has become an advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights, openly identifying as queer and sexually fluid.
2. Early Life
Stella Maxwell's early life was marked by her international upbringing and her discovery as a model while still a student.
2.1. Birth and Family Background
Stella Maynes Maxwell was born in Brussels, Belgium, on May 15, 1990. Her parents are Northern Irish, originally from Belfast. Her mother's name is Stella (née Maynes), and her father, Maurice Maxwell, is a retired diplomat who previously served as the head of the European Commission in Belfast. Stella was named after her mother. She is the youngest of four children, having two older brothers and an older sister.
2.2. Upbringing and Education
Maxwell was raised in Brussels until she was 13 years old, during which time she attended the European School, Woluwe. Following her time in Belgium, her family relocated to Australia, where they resided in Canberra for one year. At the age of 14, her family moved again, this time to Wellington, New Zealand. In New Zealand, she continued her education, attending Queen Margaret College and later the University of Otago.
2.3. Scouting and Entry into Modeling
While attending the University of Otago and working at a newsstand, Stella Maxwell was scouted by a modeling agency based in Dunedin, New Zealand. She officially began her modeling career after graduating from university.
3. Career
Stella Maxwell's career in the fashion industry is distinguished by her significant roles on the runway, her collaborations with major brands, and her extensive media presence.
3.1. Modeling Career
Maxwell has established herself as a prominent runway model, walking for numerous renowned designers and fashion houses. Her catwalk appearances include shows for Jeremy Scott, Marc Jacobs, Tommy Hilfiger, Moschino, Brandon Maxwell, Dolce & Gabbana, Jacquemus, Tory Burch, Giles, Dsquared2, Mugler, Fendi, Chanel, Miu Miu, 032c, and Versace. She notably opened the Concept Korea Spring/Summer 2011 fashion show, where she was styled as a modern-day Snow White in a hoody, miniskirt, and towering shoes. During this show, she experienced a fall on the catwalk and dropped the apple she was carrying. She also fell twice consecutively during the finale of the Miu Miu Resort 2016 fashion show.
Beyond the runway, Maxwell has posed for various prominent brands, including Alexander McQueen, Asos, H&M, Karl Lagerfeld, Roberto Cavalli, Urban Outfitters, and Topshop.
3.2. Victoria's Secret Angel
A pivotal point in Stella Maxwell's career was her association with Victoria's Secret. She first walked in the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show 2014. In 2015, she was officially contracted as one of the brand's prestigious "Angels," a role she maintained until 2021. This affiliation significantly elevated her status as a globally recognized model.
3.3. Magazine Features and Campaigns
Maxwell has been featured extensively in leading fashion publications worldwide. Her appearances include covers for the German, Turkish, Spanish, Thai, and Japanese editions of Vogue, as well as features in Elle. She has also been a prominent face in advertising campaigns for major brands, notably serving as the face of the cosmetics brand Max Factor.
3.4. Brand Collaborations
In addition to her modeling work, Maxwell has engaged in specific brand collaborations. She partnered with the French brand The Kooples to design a handbag, which was subsequently named after her.
3.5. Other Media and Recognition
Stella Maxwell's influence extends beyond traditional modeling into other media and public recognition. In 2016, she was voted No. 1 on Maxim's "Hot 100 List," earning her the title of "World's Hottest Woman." She made an uncredited appearance in the 2018 film JT LeRoy. In 2021, she appeared in the music video for "Chemical" by American musician Beck.
4. Personal Life
Stella Maxwell is fluent in both English and French. Her personal life has also garnered public attention, particularly regarding her identity and relationships.
4.1. Sexual Orientation and Identity
Maxwell is openly queer and identifies as sexually fluid. She has publicly discussed her identity, contributing to visibility within the LGBTQIA+ community.
4.2. Relationships
Maxwell's romantic relationships with other public figures have been well-publicized. In 2015, she briefly dated American singer Miley Cyrus. From December 2016 to late 2018, she was in a relationship with American actress Kristen Stewart, and they briefly resumed dating in mid-2019.
5. Advocacy and Social Impact
Beyond her career in fashion, Stella Maxwell has utilized her platform to support social causes, particularly in the realm of LGBTQIA+ rights.
5.1. LGBTQIA+ Advocacy
In 2020, Stella Maxwell became an ambassador for Pride Live's Stonewall Day events. Her involvement in such initiatives highlights her commitment to supporting the LGBTQIA+ community and promoting greater visibility and acceptance.