Elena Santarelli was born on August 18, 1981, in Latina, Italy, a city best known for its beautiful neoclassical architecture. After years of fantasizing about becoming a model, Elena finally received a jump-start to her professional career in 1999 when she won the prestigious Elite Model Look Competition.

In addition to helping increase her visibility, Elena’s victory also secured her a contract with Elite, the same modeling agency that has represented fashion icons Cindy Crawford, Stephanie Seymour and Iman.

With Elite’s help, Elena quickly became a star on the catwalk, and she appeared in shows throughout Europe as well as in high-profile campaigns for Emporio Armani, Genny, Gattinoni, Laura Biagiotti, Gai Mattiolo, Soprani, and Fusco.