𝐀𝐥𝐞𝐣𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐫𝐚 𝐀𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐨: The Spanish Model Who Conquered Karl Lagerfeld and the Fashion World
From the quiet streets of Lugo to the dazzling runways of Paris and New York, Alejandra Alonso has become a fashion icon in her own right. Born in Valencia but raised in Galicia, this Spanish model captured the eye of legendary designer Karl Lagerfeld, earning a spot in Chanel's prestigious Pre-Fall “Paris-Byzance” campaign and becoming one of the most in-demand faces in international fashion. Here's everything you need to know about Alejandra Alonso—the model who embodies elegance, versatility, and quiet resilience.
From Lugo to the World: Alejandra's Early Life
Though Alejandra Alonso was born in Valencia due to her father's military assignment, she proudly identifies as Galician. Her childhood was deeply tied to the town of Lugo and the coastal beauty of Viveiro, where she spent many summers. She completed her studies in Valencia, and it was during her high school years that she was discovered by a fashion professional, launching her modeling career.
Alejandra began working with the Spanish agency Traffic Models and quickly gained attention, landing campaigns for Dolce & Gabbana, Topshop, Diane von Furstenberg, Just Cavalli, Yves Saint Laurent, Diesel, Roberto Verino, and Rocco Barocco.
A Star is Born: The Rise to Fame
At just 17, Alejandra was featured as a “New Face” on models.com, and soon after, she signed with Women Management. Her career took off almost overnight. By 2011, she had already become the face of major fashion campaigns and walked for iconic houses like Chanel, Cavalli, Dolce & Gabbana, Diane von Furstenberg, and many more.
In the same year, she was awarded the L'Oréal Award for Best Model at Madrid Fashion Week (Cibeles)—a turning point that firmly established her reputation in the Spanish fashion industry.
Conquering the Runways of New York, Paris, and Milan
Today, Alejandra is based in New York City, living in the heart of Manhattan. She has walked in high-profile fashion weeks across New York, Paris, Milan, and Madrid. Some of her most notable runway appearances include:
- Christian Cowan F/W 23
- Dennis Basso F/W 23 and S/S 23
- Chiara Boni La Petite Robe F/W 23
- Cynthia Rowley S/S 23
- Mango S/S 13
- Chanel Metiers d’Art “Paris-Byzance”
- Dolce & Gabbana, where she wore a striking leopard print piece
Her presence on the runway is always elegant and magnetic—qualities that have made her a favorite among designers and photographers alike.
Iconic Campaigns
Alejandra Alonso’s career is filled with high-profile collaborations. Some of her most iconic campaigns include:
- Armani Exchange Spring/Summer 2013
- Chanel Pre-Fall “Paris-Byzance” 2011, shot under the artistic direction of Karl Lagerfeld
- Blanco and Mango (2011)
- Gucci (2011)
- Victoria's Secret catalog (2011)
- Love Moschino Spring/Summer 2016 with Pietro Boselli
- Lacoste Fragrance Spring 2018
- Kenzo “L’Eau par Kenzo” (2015)
- Borsalino Fall 2018
- Falconeri Fall/Winter 2013
- Disaronno x Trussardi campaign for Vogue.it
- Cover appearances in Vogue Russia (2011), Marie Claire Ukraine, and GQ España
She has also been the subject of editorials in Elle Australia, Madame Figaro, Harper’s Bazaar España, Vanity Fair España, Russh, and many others.
A Realistic Voice in Fashion
Despite her success, Alejandra Alonso doesn't shy away from talking about the less glamorous side of modeling. In interviews, she’s been candid about the loneliness that often comes with the job, despite its perks: “You travel a lot, meet new people, make friends... but there's also a lot of solitude.”
She once considered studying medicine, acknowledging that a model's career can be short-lived. While she’s since moved on from that dream, she remains focused on enjoying every moment of her journey in fashion.
A Life Between Continents
Though New York is currently her home, Alejandra frequently returns to Spain. “New York is intense,” she says, “but I have a lot of energy. It’s a city that keeps me going because there’s always something happening.”
Even in such a fast-paced environment, Alejandra remains grounded. “You have to be cold and clear-headed in this profession,” she once said in an interview. That mental clarity has surely helped her navigate the complexities of a global modeling career from a young age.
More Than Just a Pretty Face
Alejandra Alonso isn’t just a model—she's an example of grace, tenacity, and authenticity. Whether she’s walking the runway for Chanel or appearing in an avant-garde editorial shoot, she brings a refreshing presence to the fashion industry. With a resume that many aspire to and the humility of someone who knows where she comes from, Alejandra Alonso is undoubtedly one of Spain’s brightest stars in fashion.
