Gisele Bündchen Is the Girl From Ipanema as She Kicks Off 2016 Rio Opening Ceremony

Let the games begin! 

Gisele Bündchen opened the 2016 Rio Olympics' opening ceremony with a tribute to her native country, strutting her stuff to the tune of bossa nova jazz classic, "The Girl from Ipanema." The entire world had their eyes on the famed supermodel, who stole the spotlight (quite literally) when she emerged out of the darkness wearing a dazzling, slinky number by Brazilian designer Alexandre Herchcovitch.

Gisele's floor-length gown gleamed from every angle, its gold sequins reflecting the light as she turned the Summer Games into her very own cat walk. In an otherwise fairly simple (yet refined) start to the three-hour spectacle, the host country provided the finishing touches to Gisele's entrance with a silhouette of Brazil's city skyline in the background.

Speaking to Vogue, Herchcovitch discussed the Brazilian beauty's involvement in the dress's design.

"Gisele knows exactly what looks good on her and what doesn't, which makes the job much more objective and accurate. She was always present in the process," he shared, adding, "She gave important opinions, and we thought about the parts together. She made some important changes. Part of my creative process and development is to listen and adjust creations so she is satisfied."

More than 11,000 athletes from 206 countries are set to take center stage tonight, as Rio welcomes international athletes and audiences alike into their beloved country. Host countries often use their respective opening ceremonies as a chance to set the tone for the games, along the way introducing the globe to many of their rich culture and traditions. 

Given that Bündchen is one of Brazil's most iconic celebrities, it's only fitting that she was featured in the 2016 Games' inaugural moments. Now this is the Olympics we've been waiting for! 

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