Adriana Lima was one of the standout figures at the 2026 CFDA Fashion Awards, held on November 2 at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. The renowned supermodel made a striking appearance in an elegant white dress from the Donna Karan Collection, originally designed for the Fall 2006 season. Her presence at the event brought a sense of nostalgia and excitement, especially considering her recent return to the Victoria’s Secret runway.
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In an interview with PEOPLE during the awards ceremony, Limas expressed her enthusiasm for returning to the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, which recently took place in Los Angeles on October 18. This particular show gained attention not only for its stunning displays but also for celebrating models who have recently embraced motherhood, such as Barbara Palvin and Elsa Hosk. Lima remarked on the significance of this support for women in different stages of life, noting her own journey through the years with Victoria’s Secret, from a teenager to a mother of five.
“It was wonderful,” Lima shared, reflecting on her latest runway experience. “To see that Victoria’s Secret has been supporting women in different phases of their life … I started in 1999, and over 20 years I’ve seen the brand embrace women at various stages.” She highlighted how special it was to witness the inclusivity displayed by the brand, embracing all sides of womanhood.
Adding to the joy of the awards night for Lima was the presence of her teenage daughters, Valentina and Sienna, in the audience. She conveyed how having family support made the occasion even more memorable, claiming that their support enhances her confidence. Despite having walked several shows over the years, Lima often struggles to spot her daughters in the crowd, an experience she found amusingly frustrating.
“It definitely makes it special to have their support. I feel more confident knowing my family is around me. It’s not the girls’ first rodeo watching the show, but it’s funny because I never seem to see them. I see my mom, my husband, but they always remain elusive,” Lima explained, revealing the duality of excitement and anticipation that goes into each appearance.
The runway show itself featured remarkable performances, including a surprise highlight involving Megan Thee Stallion, who also graced the awards with her presence. Reviewing the performance, Lima praised the rapper, noting, “She killed it. She had such a wonderful presence, so strong, so charismatic. What I love is that she’s a girl’s girl. I’m a fan.”
Additionally, Lima commented on the buzz surrounding Kylie Jenner’s eye-catching walk, which featured a jaw-dropping JACOB & Co. diamond bra valued at $50 million. “Everyone but me knew about that. I was busy with the kids,” Lima admitted with a laugh. “I thought it was a beautiful surprise for everyone. She carried it so wonderfully, and I’m thrilled that she did it.”
While Lima is no stranger to the world of high fashion, she credited her children as significant contributors to her pre-show routine. “They are my biggest supporters,” she shared, explaining how her kids are deeply involved in her fitness and nutrition. “If I go to the gym, they come with me, and they’re always watching what I eat, reminding me of my goals.”
Lima’s return to the red carpet marks a significant moment for the model, who made her last major appearance in May at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival. At that event, she turned heads in a strapless black gown accessorised with a stunning Chopard necklace featuring a 129.09-carat emerald. These recent outings showcase not only her enduring beauty but also her evolution through various roles in life, balancing her career while being a devoted mother.
As Lima embraces work and motherhood, she exemplifies the versatility and strength of modern women in the fashion industry. Whether walking the runway for high-profile events or attending star-studded ceremonies, her presence remains a beacon of inspiration for aspiring models and mothers alike. This blend of personal and professional life resonates with audiences, making her a relatable and empowering figure in today’s fashion landscape.
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