Paloma Elsesser is one of the most prominent models in contemporary fashion. Being an icon of body positivity and inclusiveness within the industry, she is also known for being a boundary breaker in the field of fashion. Through her work, Paloma has collaborated with some of the world’s best luxury brands, such as Fendi, Versace, Alexander McQueen, and Victoria’s Secret.
However, the list of accomplishments of this remarkable model does not end here because she is also a writer, actor, and a representative of fashion activism. Currently, Paloma is one of the most influential people contributing to the fashion industry.
Who is Paloma Elsesser?
Paloma Elsesser is an American model, writer, actress, and activist. Paloma came into prominence when she was discovered by famous makeup artist Pat McGrath through her Instagram account in 2015. Paloma has been featured on the covers of leading fashion magazines like Vogue, and has walked for prominent fashion brands in New York, London, Milan, and Paris.
She is especially recognized for questioning the existing beauty paradigm and emerging as one of the most successful models in the plus size category.
Paloma Elsesser Biography Overview
| Information | Details |
| Full Name | Paloma Kai Shockley Elsesser |
| Nickname | Paloma |
| Profession | Model, Writer, Actor, Activist |
| Date of Birth | April 12, 1992 |
| Age (2026) | 34 Years |
| Birthplace | London, England |
| Hometown | Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Mixed (African-American, Chilean, Swiss) |
| Zodiac Sign | Aries |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Marital Status | Unmarried |
| Years Active | 2015–Present |
Paloma Elsesser Age
April 12, 1992, is Paloma Elsesser’s date of birth. This makes her 34 years old in 2026.
Even though Paloma joined the fashion industry at an age when most traditional models join, she became famous through her distinctive style and inclusivity activism. Many people have been influenced by her achievements and have set their own goals inspired by her.
Paloma Elsesser Early Life and Education
Paloma was born in London but grew up mostly in Los Angeles, California. Paloma is part of a multicultural family with African American, Chilean, and Swiss lineage, which has greatly shaped her worldview on identity and representation.
She relocated to New York City to further her education at The New School, where she studied Psychology and Literature before becoming a full-time model. Prior to joining the fashion industry, Paloma had entertained other career options such as a writer, psychologist, and social activist.
This academic background influences her work especially regarding diversity, body image, mental health, and representation.
Paloma Elsesser Height, Weight and Physical Appearance
| Feature | Details |
| Height | 5 feet 7.5 inches (171.5 cm) |
| Weight | Approximately 79 kg (174 lbs) |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Body Type | Curvy / Plus-Size |
| Distinctive Features | Full Lips, Natural Curly Hair, Tattoos |
| Nationality | American |
Paloma Elsesser Family Background
Paloma comes from a highly creative and diverse family. Her mother, Anissa Elsesser, has Swiss-Chilean roots, while her father is African-American.
Creativity runs deep in her family:
- Siblings: She has a brother, Sage Elsesser (a well-known professional skateboarder, model, and musician), and a sister, Ama Elsesser (also a model and actress).
- Half-Sister: She is the half-sister of singer-songwriter King Princess (Mikaela Straus).
Paloma has frequently spoken about the importance of her upbringing and credits her supportive family for helping her develop confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of identity.
Paloma Elsesser Career Journey
Discovery Through Instagram
However, the career of Paloma as a model did not start out intentionally; it started accidentally in 2015 when the famous makeup artist Pat McGrath happened to discover her through Instagram as she was looking for unusual models to launch her makeup line called Pat McGrath Labs.
Rise in Fashion
Following her debut, Paloma quickly became one of fashion’s most recognizable faces. She signed with Management artists and IMG Models and went on to work with:
- Fendi
- Versace
- Chanel
- Alexander McQueen
- Coach
- Ferragamo
- Victoria’s Secret
- Nike
- Glossier
- Savage X Fenty
Her ability to bridge high-luxury fashion with real-world body positivity has made her a standout figure in the industry.
Magazine Covers
Paloma made history in December 2020 by appearing on the cover of American Vogue, becoming one of the very few curve models to do so. She has also covered:
- Vogue (US, UK, España, Italia, Mexico)
- Elle
- Harper’s Bazaar
- i-D
- W Magazine
- Glamour
- Porter
Runway Success
She has walked in fashion weeks around the world, becoming one of the most booked curve models in fashion history. Her runway appearances include:
- Paris Fashion Week
- Milan Fashion Week
- New York Fashion Week
- London Fashion Week
Recent Career Achievements
Some of Paloma’s biggest accomplishments include:
- British Fashion Awards – Model of the Year (2023): Becoming the first plus-size/curve model to win this prestige award.
- TIME100 Next / Inclusion Leader
- Global Fashion Campaigns: Leading major multi-million dollar international beauty and fashion ads.
- Victoria’s Secret Tour & Fashion Show Revival
TV Shows, Films, Web Series and Music Videos
| Year | Project | Role |
| 2019 | Uncut Gems (Feature Film) | Kat |
| 2022 | The Kardashians | Guest Appearance |
| 2023 | Various Fashion Documentaries | Featured Guest / Model |
| 2024 | Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show | Model / Self |
| 2025 | Fashion Industry Specials | Speaker / Guest |
| 2026 | Upcoming Media Projects | TBA |
Films
Paloma made her feature film debut in the critically acclaimed A24 thriller “Uncut Gems” (2019) alongside Adam Sandler and Julia Fox.
Web Series & Documentaries
Featured in multiple fashion, mental health, and lifestyle digital series for platforms like Vogue, i-D, and Dazed.
Music Videos
Appeared in various creative visual projects and music videos for indie and hip-hop artists.
Paloma Elsesser Love Life, Marriage & Relationship Rumors
Paloma has generally kept her romantic life private, keeping the spotlight primarily on her activism and artistic work.
Relationship Status
As of 2026:
- Marital Status: Unmarried
- Current Partner: Not Publicly Confirmed
- Children: None
While she has previously been in long-term relationships with creative figures in New York City (including artist Johnny Wilson in past years), Paloma rarely discusses her current dating life publicly. Her main focus remains her career, mental health advocacy, and creative projects.
Awards and Recognition
| Award | Result |
| British Fashion Awards – Model of the Year (2023) | Winner |
| TIME100 Next | Honoree |
| Fashion Industry Leadership Recognition | Multiple |
| Vogue Historical Cover Feature | Featured |
| Body Positivity & Diversity Advocacy Awards | Various Honors |
Favorite Things and Interests
| Category | Favorite |
| Food | Italian Cuisine, Seafood |
| Hobby | Reading, Journaling, Skate Culture |
| Favorite City | New York City, London |
| Fashion Brand | Fendi, Miu Miu, Proenza Schouler |
| Activity | Traveling, Swimming, Pilates |
| Interest | Psychology, Literature, Queer Theory |
| Pet | Dogs |
Travel Destinations and Vacations
Paloma frequently travels for fashion weeks, editorial shoots, and vacation. Her favorite destinations include:
- Paris
- Milan
- London
- Los Angeles
- New York
- Tokyo
- Mexico City
- Switzerland
Luxury Collection and Beauty Tips
Paloma is known for her effortless street style mixed with high fashion.
Her collection includes:
- Designer handbags (Fendi, Telfar, Balenciaga)
- Vintage fashion and rare streetwear pieces
- Fine gold jewelry
- Premium skincare & beauty essentials
Beauty Tips
- Prioritize Skincare: Always cleanse and hydrate, especially during frequent travel.
- Embrace Natural Texture: Celebrate natural curls and hair texture.
- Inner Confidence: Style comes from self-acceptance rather than clothing sizes.
- Consistency in Rest: Prioritize sleep and mental wellness.
Lifestyle, Habits and Daily Routine
Paloma’s daily routine balances modeling commitments with personal care:
- Morning skincare routine & hydration.
- Pilates or functional movement sessions.
- Fashion fittings, editorial shoots, or runway rehearsals.
- Writing, journaling, and reading.
- Business and board meetings for diversity initiatives.
- Spending downtime with close friends and family in NYC.
Paloma Elsesser Fitness and Lifestyle
Paloma’s philosophy of health and fitness is holistic and balanced. As opposed to conforming to rigid body standards, she focuses on body neutrality and movement for clarity of mind. She has emerged as an important activist against fatphobia in media and fashion circles.
Paloma Elsesser Net Worth
As of 2026, Paloma Elsesser’s estimated net worth is between US$2 million and US$4 million.
Her primary sources of income include:
- Major agency modeling contracts
- High-end luxury brand endorsements & ambassadorships
- Magazine covers and editorial shoots
- Public speaking engagements & acting roles
| Income Source | Details |
| Modeling | Primary Income |
| Brand Endorsements | High Value |
| Acting & Media | Supplemental Income |
| Public Speaking | Moderate |
| Estimated Net Worth | US$2–4 Million |
Controversies
Paloma has largely maintained a clean public reputation. Discussions surrounding her in the media typically revolve around:
- Her viral acceptance speech after winning Model of the Year in 2023, where she advocated for marginalized bodies.
- Debates within the fashion industry regarding tokenism versus genuine inclusivity.
- Body positivity advocacy in traditional luxury fashion.
Interesting Facts About Paloma Elsesser
- She was discovered on Instagram by legendary makeup artist Pat McGrath in 2015.
- She made history by winning Model of the Year at the 2023 British Fashion Awards.
- She starred in the critically acclaimed film Uncut Gems (2019) alongside Adam Sandler.
- She was featured on the cover of American Vogue in December 2020.
- Her half-sister is indie pop star King Princess, and her brother Sage Elsesser is a professional skateboarder and Supreme model.
- She studied Psychology and Literature at The New School in NYC before modeling.
- She has mixed African-American, Chilean, and Swiss heritage.
Social Media Accounts
| Platform | Username | Followers* |
| @palomija | 650K followers | |
| X (Twitter) | @palomija | 55K+ |
| TikTok | @palomija | 200K+ |
| Paloma Elsesser | Official Presence |
Conclusion
With her skill, passion for social justice, and unwavering dedication to diversity, Paloma Elsesser has revolutionized the fashion world. With a career that has seen her go from being discovered on Instagram to making history by walking the runway in some of the most renowned magazines, her story is one of inspiration.
Paloma will continue to be a key player in high fashion and on screen in 2026 at 34 years old.
FAQs
How old is Paloma Elsesser?
Paloma Elsesser is 34 years old as of 2026.
When was Paloma Elsesser born?
She was born on April 12, 1992.
What is Paloma Elsesser famous for?
She is famous for being a top international curve model, winning the 2023 Model of the Year award, and advocating for body positivity and diversity in fashion.
What movie was Paloma Elsesser in?
Paloma starred as Kat in the 2019 crime-thriller movie Uncut Gems.
Is King Princess related to Paloma Elsesser?
Yes, musician King Princess (Mikaela Straus) is Paloma Elsesser’s half-sister.
What is Paloma Elsesser’s net worth?
Her estimated net worth is between US$2 million and US$4 million as of 2026.
Is Paloma Elsesser married?
No, she is currently unmarried.
Which major award did Paloma Elsesser win in 2023?
She won the Model of the Year award at the British Fashion Awards in 2023.
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