Net Worth Ranker
What Is Gilles Bensimon’s Net Worth?
Gilles Bensimon, a celebrated French fashion photographer, boasts a net worth of $20 million. This considerable wealth has been amassed over a career spanning multiple decades in the fashion and photography industries. His financial standing reflects his success in various ventures, primarily through his work with high-profile magazines, celebrity collaborations, and other creative endeavors.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on February 29, 1944, into an artistic family—his father a painter and his mother a sculptor—Gilles Bensimon’s early environment profoundly influenced his career path. He honed his skills in photography at the prestigious École des Beaux-Arts in Paris. This formal training provided him with a foundation that propelled him into the professional world, setting the stage for his future success.
Bensimon’s professional journey began in the early 1970s, where he initially focused on advertising and editorial projects. This early work allowed him to develop his signature style and build a portfolio that would later open doors to larger opportunities.
Key Role at Elle Magazine
A pivotal moment in Gilles Bensimon’s career occurred in 1985 when he was appointed the International Creative Director of Elle magazine. He held this influential position for over two decades, during which he significantly reshaped the magazine’s visual identity. His tenure at Elle was marked by innovative approaches to photography and layout, which helped solidify the magazine’s position as a leading fashion publication worldwide.
During his time at Elle, Bensimon played a crucial role in launching the careers of numerous supermodels. He featured models like Cindy Crawford, Naomi Campbell, and Tyra Banks on the magazine’s covers and in editorials, providing them with significant exposure that catapulted them to international fame. These collaborations not only boosted the models’ careers but also enhanced Elle’s reputation as a trendsetting publication.
Marriage to Kelly Bensimon and Real Estate Ventures
In 1997, Gilles Bensimon married American model and television personality Kelly Killoren, who later became known as Kelly Bensimon through her appearances on “The Real Housewives of New York City.” The couple’s marriage brought them into the public eye and also involved shared real estate ventures. They had two daughters, Sea and Thadeus, before their divorce in 2007.
One notable real estate transaction occurred in 1994 when Gilles Bensimon purchased a 1.25-acre property in East Hampton for $700,000. By 1998, a year into their marriage, Gilles and Kelly completed construction on a 5,800-square-foot mansion on this lot. Following their divorce in 2007, Kelly took ownership of the home. In 2009, she initially listed the property for sale at $12 million, and also offered it for rent at $250,000 per month. Eventually, in November 2012, she sold the mansion for $5.7 million. This real estate venture provides insight into the Bensimons’ financial dealings and asset management during their marriage and after their divorce.
Collaborations and Iconic Portraits
Throughout his illustrious career, Gilles Bensimon has collaborated with a wide array of celebrities, including musicians, actors, politicians, and athletes. His portfolio includes portraits of iconic figures such as Madonna, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Bill Clinton. His ability to capture the essence of his subjects, combined with his innovative and minimalist photographic style, has resulted in the creation of numerous portraits that are highly regarded in the fashion and art worlds. These collaborations have not only enhanced his reputation but also contributed significantly to his financial success.
Exhibitions, Recognition, and Later Career
Gilles Bensimon’s work has been showcased in prestigious galleries and museums worldwide, including the International Center of Photography in New York and the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris. These exhibitions have helped to solidify his status as a respected artist and have contributed to the appreciation of his work within the broader art community. His contributions to the fashion and photography industries have earned him numerous accolades, including the Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, a prestigious French honor that recognizes significant contributions to the arts.
In recent years, Gilles Bensimon has continued to engage in various photography projects, spanning both fashion and fine art. Additionally, he has dedicated his time to mentoring young photographers, sharing his vast knowledge and experience with the next generation of creative talent. This commitment to nurturing emerging artists reflects his passion for the arts and his desire to give back to the industry that has contributed so much to his success. Gilles Bensimon’s enduring influence in the fashion and photography industries is a testament to his exceptional talent and relentless passion for the arts. His net worth of $20 million is a reflection of his many successes in the field.
