Kendall Jenner once admitted she felt intimidated by Gigi Hadid before they became friends. Both stars grew up in California, though they went to different schools. They connected through mutual friends and Gigi’s younger sister, Bella Hadid. Kendall, then dealing with acne and braces, felt overawed by Gigi’s striking looks. However, over the years, the two supermodels went from awkward beginnings to becoming close companions while today, Kendall calls Gigi more of a sister than a friend, while Gigi emphasizes their quiet moments away from the public eye. Also their journey reveals how vulnerability, shared growth, and career experiences shaped a bond that now defines them.
Kendall’s Early Intimidation
In a joint interview with Vogue, Kendall confessed she once felt nervous around Gigi. She recalled seeing a black-and-white photo of Gigi with long blond hair that went viral on Tumblr. Kendall admitted she thought, “What the f**?”* when she compared her own braces and acne to Gigi’s flawless image. Despite these insecurities, Kendall gradually found comfort in their growing friendship.
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Gigi’s Own Awkwardness
Gigi, now 30, quickly downplayed Kendall’s fears by revealing she also had an awkward childhood, and she admitted that she, too, went through phases that did not match her glamorous public image. While their shared vulnerability gave them common ground as they navigated their teenage years and early careers.
Friendship Beyond Glamour
The two models began spending more time together and later worked side by side when their modeling careers took off. Kendall, now 29, described their bond by saying, “We’re sisters more than we’re friends.” Gigi highlighted how the world rarely sees the private side of their relationship while she pointed out that they share many quiet moments, which bring them peace and deepen their connection.
Gigi’s Journey to Assertiveness
Outside of their friendship, Gigi has worked to balance her public image with her personal values. In 2022, she launched her fashion brand, Guest In Residence and she explained that she focuses on creating timeless basics rather than flashy pieces she often only borrows for events. Gigi also acknowledged that she used to be a “people-pleaser.” Over time, she learned that being assertive does not mean being rude while instead, it helps her manage her career effectively and stay true to herself.
Embracing Fun in Work
Gigi also shared her determination to keep work enjoyable while she said she wants every project to feel exciting and fulfilling, not just for herself but also for those around her and this outlook reflects both her creative spirit and her desire to create meaningful experiences.
