The identity of Gigi Hadid’s mother is well-known to fashion enthusiasts and reality television fans alike: she is Yolanda Hadid. Born Yolanda van den Herik in the Netherlands, she is far more than just a celebrity parent. Yolanda is a former international supermodel, a television personality best known for her time on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, and the foundational force behind the careers of three of the most famous siblings in modern fashion—Gigi, Bella, and Anwar Hadid.

Understanding the trajectory of Gigi Hadid’s career requires a close look at the woman who paved the way. Yolanda’s life story, from her humble beginnings in a small Dutch town to the heights of high fashion, provides the blueprint for the work ethic and resilience that the Hadid children exhibit today.

From the Netherlands to Global Runways

Yolanda Hadid was born on January 11, 1964, in Papendrecht, Netherlands. Her upbringing was characterized by a connection to nature and a distinct European sensibility, often referring to herself as a "Dutch farm girl." This identity remained central to her even after she moved to the United States and achieved immense wealth.

Her career in the fashion industry began in an era far removed from the digital age of social media. At the age of 16, Yolanda was discovered by Eileen Ford, the legendary co-founder of Ford Models. After being scouted during a hair show in Amsterdam, she was signed to a contract that would take her across the globe. For the next 15 years, Yolanda enjoyed a successful career as an international model, working in major fashion capitals including Paris, Milan, and New York.

This period was crucial for the future of the Hadid children. Yolanda did not just model; she learned the inner workings of the industry. She understood the demands of photographers, the expectations of designers, and the physical and mental stamina required to maintain a career at the top. This firsthand experience allowed her to act as a mentor rather than just a manager when her children eventually decided to follow in her footsteps.

The Foundation of the Hadid Family

In 1994, Yolanda married Mohamed Hadid, a successful luxury real estate developer of Palestinian-American descent. The couple settled in Los Angeles, where they welcomed three children: Jelena Noura (Gigi) in 1995, Isabella Khair (Bella) in 1996, and Anwar in 1999.

Although Yolanda and Mohamed divorced in 2000, they maintained a co-parenting relationship that allowed their children to grow up with a strong sense of heritage. Gigi has often spoken about her pride in her diverse background—the "Dutch farm girl" roots from her mother and the Palestinian refugee history of her father.

Yolanda chose to raise her children primarily on a ranch in Santa Barbara, California. This choice was deliberate; she wanted her children to grow up away from the intense spotlight of Hollywood. During these formative years, the Hadid children were involved in competitive sports rather than red-carpet events. Gigi was a captain of her varsity volleyball team and a competitive equestrian, interests that her mother encouraged to instill discipline and a sense of normalcy.

The Real Housewives Era and Public Image

In 2012, Yolanda Hadid joined the cast of Bravo’s The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills (RHOBH). While the show is often associated with drama and luxury, Yolanda used the platform to showcase her dedication to her family and her health. During her four-season tenure, viewers got a glimpse into the Hadid household just as Gigi and Bella were beginning their transition into adulthood.

It was during this time that the public saw Yolanda’s approach to the industry. She was often shown giving her daughters advice on photo shoots and career choices. While critics sometimes labeled her as a "stage mom," those close to the family argued that her involvement was protective. Having seen the pitfalls of the modeling world in the 1980s, Yolanda was determined to ensure her daughters were mentally and physically prepared for the modern iteration of the business.

A Strict Parenting Philosophy: The 18-Year Rule

One of the most defining aspects of Yolanda’s parenting—which has been widely discussed in fashion circles—was her refusal to let her children model full-time until they were 18 years old. Despite Gigi having a childhood stint as a model for Baby Guess, Yolanda pulled her out of the industry to focus on school and sports.

"I never wanted them to be in that life until they had some sense of who they were as human beings," Yolanda explained in later interviews. She emphasized that modeling is a "tough profession" that is "not for the weak." By making them wait, she ensured they had a childhood outside of the lens, which Gigi has since thanked her for, noting that those extra years allowed her to grow up without the pressure of being a public figure.

This strategy proved highly effective. When Gigi finally signed with IMG Models in 2013 and moved to New York, she did so with a level of maturity that set her apart from other newcomers. She wasn't just another face; she was a professional who understood the business, a trait directly inherited from her mother.

Facing Health Challenges Together

Yolanda’s public life has also been defined by her struggle with chronic Lyme disease. Diagnosed in 2012, she has been a vocal advocate for awareness of the "invisible disability." Her 2017 book, Believe Me: My Battle with the Invisible Disability of Lyme Disease, chronicles her search for a cure and the impact the illness had on her family.

This battle was a family affair. Bella and Anwar were also diagnosed with Lyme disease, creating a shared experience of adversity that strengthened their bond. Gigi, the only sibling not affected by the disease, became a primary source of support. In 2017, when Gigi won Glamour’s Woman of the Year award, she dedicated a significant portion of her speech to her mother’s resilience, stating that she honored her parents' work ethic in everything she did.

Life Today: The Farm and the Next Generation

In recent years, Yolanda has stepped back from the reality TV spotlight. She spends much of her time on her farm in Pennsylvania, a place that serves as a sanctuary for the entire family. The farm is where they return to "recharge" and reconnect with their roots, far from the chaos of Fashion Week.

The family has also expanded to a new generation. In September 2020, Gigi gave birth to her daughter, Khai. Yolanda has embraced her role as a grandmother, or "Oma" (the Dutch word for grandmother). She is frequently seen assisting with Khai’s upbringing, ensuring that the same values of nature, privacy, and hard work are passed down to the next Hadid.

FAQ: Common Questions About Yolanda Hadid

What did Yolanda Hadid do before she was famous?

Before her television fame, Yolanda was a high-profile international model for 15 years, signed to Ford Models. She traveled the world and appeared in numerous campaigns and editorials during the 1980s and 90s.

Is Yolanda Hadid still on The Real Housewives?

No, Yolanda left The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills in 2016 after four seasons. She chose to focus on her health and her family after her divorce from her second husband, David Foster.

Where is Yolanda Hadid from?

She was born and raised in the Netherlands. She moved to the United States as a teenager to pursue her modeling career but has always maintained strong ties to her Dutch heritage.

Does Yolanda Hadid live with her children?

While the family is very close, they maintain separate residences. Yolanda primarily lives on her farm in Pennsylvania, while her children often reside in New York City for work, though they frequently visit the farm.

What book did Yolanda Hadid write?

She wrote a memoir titled Believe Me: My Battle with the Invisible Disability of Lyme Disease, published in 2017, which details her health journey.

Summary

Yolanda Hadid is more than just "Gigi Hadid's mom." She is a former model who transitioned her industry knowledge into a successful mentorship for her children. From her early days in the Netherlands to the high-stakes world of Beverly Hills and the international fashion stage, Yolanda has remained a steadfast figure of discipline and family loyalty. Her influence is visible in Gigi’s professional conduct, Bella’s artistic depth, and the family’s collective ability to navigate the complexities of global fame while remaining grounded in their shared history.