[5][3] Her nickname "Calu" was given by her older sister because of a character called Kalú in the Chilean telenovela Tic tac.

[5] Having finished secondary school, Rivero began studying dramatic arts in the National University of Córdoba.

[5] In 2006 Rivero moved to Buenos Aires to pursue her acting career and began taking drama classes with Norman Briski.

[citation needed] Rivero's modeling career boomed, being the face of both national and international companies such as Nike, TOMS Shoes, Agatha Ruíz de la Padra, La Casa de las Botas, Sweet Victorian, Todo Moda, 47 Street and Roho.

By the end of 2011, Calu Rivero became one of the most sought-after actresses in Argentina,[13] considered the new national "It girl"[10][13] and a fashion icon.