Karl Stefanovic unleashes his inner Derek Zoolander as launches his influencer career and models a pair of $300 women's shorts around his neck

READ MORE: Today host Sarah Abo left mortified and 'embarrassed' by Karl Stefanovic's childish prank

Karl Stefanovic shocked his followers on Wednesday when he launched his influencer career on social media.

In an image shared to Instagram, the Today show host, 49, is seen striking a pose in a pair of $300 women’s shorts from Zimmerman, strangely tied around his neck.

Karl, who gives off Derek Zoolander vibes in the frame, completed his look with a pair of zebra print shorts and stylish shades to add an air of distinction to his beach attire.

He captioned the attention grabbing image with some hilarious words, while promoting his return to breakfast TV.

‘Introducing The New Zim “Mer-Man”. #paidpost #model #supermodel #extremelygoodlooking #backontvweekafternext,’ he wrote next to the photo.

Karl Stefanovic shocked his followers on Wednesday when he launched his influencer career on social media. In an image shared to Instagram, the Today show host, 49, is seen striking a pose in a pair of $300 women’s shorts from Zimmerman, strangely tied around his neck. Pictured

Karl, who gives off Derek Zoolander vibes in the frame, completed his look with a pair of zebra print shorts and stylish shades to add an air of distinction to his beach attire. Pictured: Ben Stiller as Derek Zoolander

Many of Karl’s high profile followers were quick to comment their thoughts at his attempt to model women’s fashion, including his 18-year-old daughter Willow.

‘Oh my God,’ she wrote alongside the black and white image, seemingly left speechless by the amusing photo.

‘Just when it seems you could not possibly be any hotter, you step it up to a new level of supermodel,’ added The Block’s Mitch and Mark.

‘Ridiculously good looking,’ added TV talking head Melissa Hoyer.

Karl looks to be keeping himself busy as he enjoys a summer holiday from his presenting duties.

Many of Karl’s high profile followers were quick to comment their thoughts on his attempt to model women’s fashion, including his 18-year-old daughter Willow (right)

Willow was seemingly left speechless by the amusing photo

Last month, it was confirmed that Dr Nick Coatsworth will take over Stefanovic’s hosting duties from December 26, allowing the long-serving breakfast host to spend break with his family.

Karl has four children: sons River, 24, and Jackson, 17, and daughter Willow, whom he shares with his first wife Cassandra Thorburn, and daughter Harper, three, whom he has with his current partner Jasmine Yarbrough.

He recently expanded his career into acting, appearing in a cameo role in the bawdy Stan Original Series C*A*U*G*H*T.

Karl looks to be keeping himself busy as he enjoys a summer holiday from his presenting duties