Top-ranking model Gigi Hadid marked her 20th birthday by feeling the cool grains of Florida’s Miami Beach between her toes. But behind the scenes, Hadid’s sunshine moments were interspersed with poignant heartbreak.
Her professional commitments for Seafolly, a famed swimwear brand, required her to show off her spectacular physique in a range of stunning swimsuits. However, on Friday, the festive shoot was shadowed by somber news: her childhood dog, Lucky, had sadly passed away.
Despite her hectic schedule, Gigi took time to pay tribute to her furry friend on Instagram, sharing a touching memory and captioning it with, “Rest in peace, my angel boy.”
The glamorous photo shoot showcased Hadid in a black tankini accented with white piping and a vibrant feather pattern. Her sun-kissed blonde hair was pulled back for the session, and she sported an assortment of gold jewelry.
Gigi, the daughter of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star, Yolanda Foster, completed her beach outfit with a pair of rugged olive-green Nike sneakers as she navigated towards Miami Beach.
Hadid’s shoot showcased her striking poses in the lush greenery juxtaposed with Miami’s iconic palms. The talented model also introduced a hint of drama with large, gold dangling earrings and captured attention with an elegant high ponytail.
During a soothing break on set, Gigi was swathed in a visually striking, patterned blanket. A hospitable crew member provided shade with a large black umbrella while dedicated professionals from her glam team attended to her hair and makeup.
Transforming her look, Gigi switched into a more traditional-style bikini, which featured a black and vibrant pink stripe pattern. The trendy bikini was further detailed with ‘SF’, signifying Seafolly’s initials.
For this look, Hadid traded her gold accessories for distinguished pieces adorned with large pearls.
Unleashing her flowing blonde hair from the confinements of her ponytail, she presented her hair in natural, effortless waves.
Flaunting this refreshed look in the ambient sand, Gigi displayed her athletic physique while gripping a pair of travel rings on the beach. Her infectious smile added a joyful essence as a fellow visitor executed awe-inspiring acrobatics nearby.
After the glamorous black and pink bikini, Gigi switched to an enticing red and white striped bikini, complete with a quaint beach umbrella pattern. She opted to go barefoot for a carefree beach vibe, draping herself in a vivacious assortment of colorfully beaded bracelets.
Partaking in a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear pool, she showcased the faultless design of her outfit, and posed by a private cabana for a few sandy snaps.
On her 20th birthday, just a day before, Gigi had used her Instagram space to share a heartfelt memory of her dear dog Lucky who had tragically passed away.
Reflecting on her dog’s life, she mused, “On my 9th birthday an angel came into my life… And on my 20th birthday, that same angel went to a place where he can watch over me a lot better..[heart emoji]”
Compiling a past snapshot with a recent picture of them, she wrote, “To an irreplaceable companion, Rest In Peace my angel boy. Her loving tribute also included heart-touching condolences echoed by her sister Bella Hadid and brother Anwar Hadid.
Despite her personal heartbreak, Gigi persevered professionally, commencing her photo shoot for Seafolly in Miami. Channeling her poise and charisma, she dazzled while striking poses in multiple bikinis and one-pieces, arresting attention with her stunning silhouette.
One of her memorable looks was a retro-styled red bikini with white polka dots and high-waisted bottoms. The birthday girl became a vision of fun as she pulled poses in the two-piece.
Paying homage to her circle of love, Gigi kept her personalized phone handy throughout the day to stay connected with her friends and family. Among the best wishes she received was a sweet message from her beau, Cody Simpson, who declared, “Happy 20th birthday to my best mate @gigihadid. You are a WOMAN of soul and substance.. I love you!”
Despite her birthday festivities and professional commitments, Gigi’s thoughts continually returned to her affectionate dog, Lucky. Earlier on her birthday, she had shared a picture of him, stating that her primary birthday wish was for him to reclaim his health.
Brimming with bottled excitement just a day before her departure to Miami, she had tweeted, “Headed to Miami with the @seafolly team. Get to spend my birthday tomorrow with my toes in the sand!”
