Her remarkable journey from a cover girl to a multimillion-dollar entrepreneur has also served as an inspiration to many active fashion models, showing that there’s so much more to success than just posing for the camera.
Kathy credits her success to ”thousands of hours of work performed by many, many people.” But she also acknowledges that much of her drive and work ethic come from her upbringing and the valuable lessons she learned from her father, John, a labor relations executive.
”As a child, I always worked. From the days of my newspaper route, my dad always taught me to give 110%. Give more than the customer is expecting. If the customer expects the paper on the driveway, put it on the front porch. That was the foundation of our learning – to under promise and over deliver,” Kathy says.
As successful as she was professionally, Ireland has always stayed grounded in philanthropy. Whether it’s supporting education, healthcare, or poverty alleviation, Kathy uses her wealth and influence to give back.
Kathy Ireland children
She’s made it clear that her legacy isn’t just about business — it’s about making a real difference. And behind it all, Ireland is a devoted mother to three children.
The former top model married physician Greg Olsen in 1988. Together, they have three children: son Erik, and daughters Lily, and Chloe.
”I love having one-on-one time with each of my kids, especially as they get older and their personalities really start to come out. You don’t need a whole day, and it doesn’t have to be an elaborate expensive activity,” she told People in 2007.
Elizabeth Taylor was her mentor
Kathy Ireland has long credited her family as a vital source of support throughout her career. However, it was her close friendship with the iconic Elizabeth Taylor that left a lasting impact on her personal and professional journey.
The two stars attended public events together, forming a bond that went beyond mere celebrity connection. When Ireland faced criticism for her performance as the on-air host of ABC’s 2010 pre-Oscar special, it was Taylor who stepped forward in her defense.
”I have never seen anyone epitomize glamour and grace and professionalism like she did,” Taylor famously said, offering a powerful endorsement at a time when Ireland was under fire.
In the years that followed, Ireland often spoke about the profound influence Taylor had on her life. She credits the late actress as a mentor, acknowledging that Taylor’s guidance helped shape her success in business, design, and philanthropy.
Devout Christian and anti-abortion advocate
Today, Kathy, a devout Christian and an anti-abortion advocate, has reached 62 years of age. She continues to pour her heart into the things she’s passionate about, with a refreshingly positive view of aging that many admire.
”It’s a journey and actually I’m enjoying getting older,” she says. ’”I wouldn’t go back in time for anything. I want to grow with every year. I don’t want to stagnate and as long as I grow, I’m looking forward to old age.”
Her experience in the modeling world taught her a powerful lesson that she carries with her today: Someone else’s opinion of her did not define or destroy her.
At 62, she’s as vibrant as ever, crediting her ability to stay healthy and active as one of her greatest joys.
”I was a late bloomer and kept growing taller until I was in my 20s, so I had an amazing metabolism. I could have hot fudge sundaes for breakfast and that changed a lot. Now at 60, I do all the things I love to do, and I don’t take that for granted. I’m so grateful to be healthy.”
How she looks today
To keep her energetic spirit alive, Kathy integrates fitness into her everyday life in a low-key way. ”I love the great outdoors,” she shares. “I’m a seventh-generation Californian so I love the ocean and the mountains, and I love surfing, hiking, biking and going for walks.”
Kathy Ireland has always taken a balanced approach to food, refusing to categorize foods as ”good” or ”bad” or follow any strict diet. Instead, she embraced the idea of balance, believing that depriving herself was never the way to go. While she tried different diets over the years, she never fully committed to any, preferring to focus on being healthy rather than restrictive.
She made sure to incorporate fresh, raw fruits and vegetables into her meals as much as possible. Over time, she developed a love for tropical fruits, apples, bananas, and berries. Even Brussels sprouts, which she once disliked, became a favorite.
Kathy Ireland at 62 is still looking great and radiating positivity. She’s stayed true to her roots, balancing a successful business with a healthy lifestyle.
It’s inspiring how she’s embraced aging and continues to stay active, both physically and mentally. Even with all her success, she keeps a grounded, approachable vibe, making her a true role model. It’s clear she’s living life to the fullest and doesn’t plan on slowing down anytime soon!