Lina Zhang is a top Chinese fashion model who has achieved global recognition. She has appeared in advertising campaigns and runway shows for the likes of Prada, Balenciaga, Loewe, Burberry and Bottega Venetta to name a few. Regularly cast for the cover of Chinese glossies as well as international editions of Vogue and other leading fashion titles, the Shanghai-based model walked more than 20 shows in the Autumn/Winter 2023-4 season alone. After she was nominated by Models.com for its Model of the Year award in 2022, the industry database included her in its ranking of “Icons.”
Zhang initially dreamed of becoming an actor or a rhythmic gymnast but began modelling at age 19. She did her first season in 2011 getting noticed for her strong noble features and a sculptural jawline. In China, her rise is even more noteworthy considering her humble roots. She was born in a small village in Anhui province, which she described in a 2020 interview with Net-a-Porter’s Porter magazine as “extremely poor [but] a beautiful place.” In 2014, Zhang took a break from modelling to get married and have children. “I came back into this super competitive industry at the age of 29, something I never thought I’d be able to do. It was tough, but I think my career has now entered a new and even more exciting phase.” Her popularity was still riding high three years later.