How I Get Dressed: Candice Swanepoel

Yes, wearing incredible garments — whether a tailored blazer on the streets of New York or a sheer gown on the Cannes red carpet — is quite literally what Candice Swanepoel is paid to do, but the longtime Victoria's Secret model knows that a great outfit is about so much more than clothes. “Fashion is one of the most exciting and beautiful forms of self-expression,” she tells InStyle. And, for Swanepoel, great outfits start at the foundation: a perfectly fitted bra.

The former Angel is teaming up with the lingerie giant yet again for the VS Icons Campaign. In it, she stars alongside fellow former Angels Gisele Bundchen, Naomi Campbell, and Adriana Lima, as well as newer icons like Emily Ratajkowski and Paloma Elsesser.

Though she's perhaps most known for her work with Victoria's Secret, Swanepoel also moonlights as a swimwear designer for the line Tropic of C. In fact, she says swimsuits are the one item she can't live without. "I’ve been living in easy sets to throw on, especially during the summertime," she says.

But lingerie and swimsuits are just the start for this supermodel. Ahead, Swanepoel dives deep into her relationship with fashion, from the viral trends she’s loving to the pieces that are most special to her.

On How Her Style Evolves Day by Day

Maybe one day I choose to feel glamorous, or on another occasion, I choose to feel loungey and cozy — all of these life moments are seen in what we choose to wear. What we naturally gravitate towards when styling an outfit says so much and I love that. For me, that is where my inspiration to shop, organize, and create a look comes from — how I am feeling and who I want to be that day. Like all of us, I am always evolving, and this includes my style. 

On the Most Iconic Pieces in Her Closet

I have been so fortunate to have been able to compile so many iconic pieces throughout my life, that have so much meaning and bring back such amazing memories. These are pieces that I’ll cherish forever, but I also truly love the classics. Whether it's my favorite go-to T-shirt bra, maybe a perfectly tailored blazer, or a pair of jeans that have a great wash — these are all items that are iconic to me because they will never go out of style.

On Her Favorite Trends

I am loving the sheer trend. It’s fun to play around with what undergarments I feature underneath. I love a pop of color too, I have been leaning into bright yellow lately. I only really get into trends that I can see staying with my personal style for the long term.

On Day-to-Night Dressing

You can never go wrong with jeans. I love to throw on a pair for the day with a tank or shirt and then dress them up at night with a fun bodysuit or blouse and maybe some heels!

On What Makes Her Feel Powerful

I love variation in my looks. Pieces that can truly be a standalone statement, or that can be a complement to other fun pieces are what make any look. From vibrant to neutral colors, classic or unique silhouettes, and incredible fabrics and materials — I love to play around with them all. I also love wearing pieces from a variety of incredible designers, and mixing and matching. Being able to select all of these elements and make it my own is what makes me feel powerful.

On Her Fashion Secret Weapon

For me, I think choosing the right bra or undergarments — especially for special events — gives me an immediate boost of confidence because it allows me to feel comfortable and supported throughout the day. Right now, I am loving the Icon by Victoria's Secret Push-Up Demi Bra. It’s that extra special piece that no one can see under your outerwear, but in reality, it’s doing all the work underneath to make you feel your best. 

On What's Shaped How She Gets Dressed

I think having an appreciation of classic and unique pieces, while maintaining comfort are what has helped me develop my own sense of personal style. Keeping these elements in mind has always made it super easy for me to throw on an outfit and feel proud to wear it anywhere I go.