IN CONVERSATION WITH GABRIELA MOURA

interview by JANA LETONJA

Brazilian model and social media sensation Gabriela Moura is making waves in the fashion industry as she prepares to walk the iconic Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show for the second time. With over 14 million followers across social media, she has successfully transitioned from digital creator to one of fashion’s exciting rising stars, landing campaigns with Victoria’s Secret PINK, OUTCAST, YSL, and L’Oréal, as well as earning recognition as a Sports Illustrated Rookie. Known for her confidence, authenticity, and distinctive sense of style, Gabi represents a new generation of models redefining beauty and influence.

images courtesy of VICTORIA’S SECRET

Congratulations on walking the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show for the second time! How does it feel to be invited back, and what did this opportunity mean to you at this stage of your career?
I can’t even put into words how grateful I am to have experienced this for a second time. Victoria’s Secret has been a dream brand of mine since I was a girl, so being able to come back and walk in the show was another dream come true. This opportunity means so much to me, and I’m excited to continue building my relationship with VS and hopefully keep working with them in any way I can.

Can you take us back to your first Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show? What do you remember most vividly about the experience, and how did you feel stepping onto that iconic runway for the first time?
Going back to my first Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, I remember being backstage and looking around at all these women I had grown up idolizing. Just being in the same room as them, let alone getting to walk the runway alongside them, was everything to me. It was such a surreal, pinch-me moment, and stepping onto that iconic runway for the first time is something I’ll never forget.

The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is known for its incredible energy, glamorous looks, and unforgettable moments. What is the atmosphere really like backstage, and what do people not get to see?
It’s such a collaborative and supportive space backstage. Everyone is constantly hyping each other up, whether it’s before they walk out or when they come back. With a moment as big as this, it’s so special to be surrounded by that kind of energy. Everyone genuinely wants to see each other shine, and that sense of support is something people don’t always get to see behind the scenes.

Victoria’s Secret has been evolving its image and celebrating a broader vision of beauty and individuality. What does being part of this new era of the brand mean to you? 
It means everything to me. I’ve always been someone who loves supporting my girlies and celebrating women in all their individuality. Seeing Victoria’s Secret embrace inclusivity and shine a light on what makes every woman unique is so special, and being part of this new era of the brand means so much to me.

How do you approach fitness and wellness ahead of a big show? Are there any workouts, self-care rituals, or healthy habits that help you feel your strongest and most confident?
For me, when I feel good physically, I feel good mentally, so wellness is all about finding that balance. Before the show, I make sure I’m nourishing my body with my favorite smoothies and salads, while also mixing in some Brazilian comfort food. I stick to my workout routine and make sure I’m staying active every day. And of course, lymphatic drainage is a must for me. It’s the best thing ever.

What is the one thing you absolutely cannot live without during Fashion Show week, whether it’s a beauty essential, a lucky charm, or something that keeps you grounded?
I know I just mentioned it, but lymphatic drainage massages are a must for me. I always feel so amazing afterwards, and they’ve become an essential part of my routine. I make sure to schedule a few before the show because they’re something I absolutely can’t go without during Fashion Show week.

You’ve gone from building an enormous social media following to working with major fashion and beauty brands. Was modeling always part of your dream, or did your career evolve in ways you never expected?
I always dreamed of becoming a model. It took me a little time to build the confidence to fully step into it because, when everything starts happening at once, it can feel a little overwhelming. But at some point, I took a step back and realized that this was everything I had ever wanted and had been working toward. Being able to live that dream has been so special, and I’m incredibly grateful for how everything has unfolded.

As a Brazilian model making your mark internationally, how has your cultural background influenced your personal style, approach to beauty, and confidence?
It’s hard to explain if you’re not from Brazil, but there’s such a strong sense of pride that I carry with me in everything I do. Whether it’s through my personality, my love for colorful outfits, or simply being able to represent my country on an international level, it’s something that means so much to me. I couldn’t be more grateful to be Brazilian, and I love being able to bring a little piece of my culture with me wherever I go.

How would you describe your personal style when you’re not working? Are there any designers, fashion eras, or style icons currently inspiring your wardrobe?
Comfortable, always. When I’m not working, you can usually find me in a cute sweat set or an athleisure look. I’ve also been obsessed with Y2K fashion for years, and it’s definitely been a big inspiration for my wardrobe. I love being able to keep things comfortable while still having fun with my style.

You’ve also been named a Sports Illustrated Rookie. What did that milestone mean to you, and how has it influenced the way you see yourself as a model?
Being named a Sports Illustrated Rookie was another dream come true. It was one of those moments where I just sat there thinking, “What is happening?!” The fact that I get to work with two brands that I’ve admired and been obsessed with for years, and that do so much to empower women, is truly insane.

Social media often comes with pressure to look perfect, particularly in the fashion and beauty industries. How do you maintain a healthy relationship with your appearance and stay authentic in the public eye?
I think it comes down to remembering who I am and the love I have for myself. There are so many different beauty standards out there, but we’re all women and we’re all beautiful in our own ways. At the end of the day, it’s the people around me who love me for who I am that keep me grounded and remind me what truly matters.

Confidence is such an important part of walking the runway. What makes you feel most beautiful and empowered, and what advice would you give young women who struggle with self confidence?
Knowing who I am and having people around me who love me for me is what makes me feel most beautiful and confident. Knowing I have people in my corner who support me in everything I do means so much to me. I’d tell young women to remember that confidence starts with accepting and loving yourself.

Finally, after another exciting Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show appearance, what’s next for you? Are there any dream designers, fashion houses, or creative projects you’d love to work with in the future?
Of course, I’d love to continue my relationship with Victoria’s Secret and keep working with the brand if I’m lucky enough to. I’d also love to work with fashion houses like YSL, Dior, and Prada. I’ve admired these brands for years, so being able to work with them one day would be a dream come true.