Alves was a student in civil engineering at Brazil's Londrina State University prior to moving to São Paulo, where she pursued modeling.

Alves quickly rose to top model status following her appearance on the cover of Vogue Italia in April 2002, which was photographed by Steven Meisel.

In fashion circles she inherited the nickname "The Body", previously attributed to models Elle Macpherson and Gisele Bündchen, thanks to her physique.

Alves has signed contracts with Valentino, Christian Dior, Escada, Ralph Lauren, Missoni, Miss Sixty, Michael Kors, GAP, Emporio Armani, Michael Kors Swimwear, H&M, Calzedonia, AKRIS and holds a deal with Yves Saint Laurent for their fragrance Cinéma's campaign.

Alves was featured on the covers of more than 100 major fashion magazines, including international editions of Vogue, Elle, Marie Claire, French, Esquire, L'Officiel, Harper's Bazaar, Amica and Glamour.